What's In My Jar
Ren Skincare Glow and Protect Serum
Ren Skincare

Ren Skincare Glow and Protect Serum

Efficacy25/100IrritancyHigh
See all ingredients

Works for

Moisturizing
Glycerin, Coco-caprylate/caprate + 10 more
Works
What the product description says
“Soothing properties, regenerates and restores skin barrier ​and improves skin hydration.”
Source: Ren Skincare

This product can help improve hydration of the skin with the two types of ingredients.

The first type is called “humectants”:
these ingredients help attract water. When humectants are on the surface of the skin, they “pull in” the moisture from the outside environment, or from within deeper layers of the skin. The following ingredients in this product do the job: glycerin, glycogen.

This product also contains ingredients called “occlusives”. They help reduce the speed with which our skin loses moisture to the outside environment. These ingredients also help soften the upper layer of the skin, so it feels less tight and nicer to the touch. The following ingredients in this product do the job: helianthus annuus seed oil, squalane.

GlycerinKey active· HumectantEffect: HighOne of the best moisturizing ingredients. Naturally present in skin. It attracts water to the upper layer of the skin working as a humectant~3.9–5.9%
Coco-caprylate/caprateKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumHelps to soften the upper layer of the skin without creating a greasy texture~3.7–5.5%
SqualaneKey active· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: HighAn oil naturally present in skin. Works as an emollient to soften the skin and form a protective layer on its surface without a greasy feeling.~1.7–2.6%
Punica granatum seed oilKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumHelps soften the upper layer of the skin~1.3–1.9%
Cetearyl alcoholKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumA non-drying alcohol. Works as an emollient. Helps water and oil mix together and creates a nice product texture~1.1–1.6%
Helianthus annuus seed oilKey active· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: HighA great emollient due to its high linoleic acid content. One of the most effective plant oils in helping skin hydration and repairing skin barrier function~0.35–0.85%
GlycogenKey active· HumectantEffect: HighHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin~0.2–0.75%
Hippophae rhamnoides oilKey active· EmollientEffect: HighA good emollient. Contains various ingredients including vitamins and fatty acids that could work in the skin to neutralize free radicals and minimize moisture loss - if enough of these compounds is able to penetrate the skin in an active form.~0.15–0.65%
Sodium hyaluronateKey active· HumectantEffect: HighOne of the best moisturizing ingredients. Attracts water into the upper layer of the skin~0.15–0.6%
Olea europaea oil unsaponifiablesKey activeEffect: MediumHelp soften the upper layer of the skin~0.1–0.45%
Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitateEffect: Low, below effective doseA vitamin C derivative. Studies show that is might be effective in reducing hyperpigmentation, but there are no studies confirming that it is effectively converted into the bioavailable form of Vitamin C in skin. It is not clear how this derivative compares in effectiveness to the topical application of bioavailable form of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid)~0.8–1.25%
Rosa canina fruit oilUnder-dosedA great emollient. Contains vitamin E (tocopherol) which may give it some anti-oxidant properties. Can contain volatile compounds and can be irritating~0.5–1.2%
Evens skin tone
Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate ~0.8–1.25%
Under-dosed
What the product description says
“The lightweight vitamin C serum is enriched with Kakadu Plum, boasting up to 100x higher vitamin C content than oranges. Promoting a more radiant and evenly-toned complexion, the formula also features mineral-rich Dragon Fruit, helping to support a healthy microbiome, while keeping the skin hydrated.”
Source: Lookfantastic

Effective ingredients missing or their concentration is too low

Magnesium ascorbyl phosphateEffect: Low, below effective doseA derivative of vitamin C that is more stable, but less bioavailable than the pure form of vitamin C. It does not penetrate the skin well, but has been shown to convert to pure vitamin C once in skin. It can be helpful in stimulating collagen production and lightening the skin tone, but the required concentration is likely to be very high~0.15–0.5%
Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitateUnder-dosedA vitamin C derivative. Studies show that is might be effective in reducing hyperpigmentation, but there are no studies confirming that it is effectively converted into the bioavailable form of Vitamin C in skin. It is not clear how this derivative compares in effectiveness to the topical application of bioavailable form of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid)~0.8–1.25%
Anti-aging
Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate ~0.8–1.25%
Under-dosed
What the product description says
“Think of this serum as the go-to guard against free radicals and other environmental aggressors so you can be one pump closer to youthful-looking skin…”
Source: Cultbeauty

Effective ingredients missing or their concentration is too low.

Magnesium ascorbyl phosphateEffect: Low, below effective doseA derivative of vitamin C that is more stable, but less bioavailable than the pure form of vitamin C. It does not penetrate the skin well, but has been shown to convert to pure vitamin C once in skin. It can be helpful in stimulating collagen production and lightening the skin tone, but the required concentration is likely to be very high~0.15–0.5%
Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitateUnder-dosedA vitamin C derivative. Studies show that is might be effective in reducing hyperpigmentation, but there are no studies confirming that it is effectively converted into the bioavailable form of Vitamin C in skin. It is not clear how this derivative compares in effectiveness to the topical application of bioavailable form of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid)~0.8–1.25%

Can it cause trouble?

Irritancy
6 strong irritants: Rosmarinus officinalis leaf extract, Parfum + 4 more — patch-test recommended
High risk
We flagged 18 ingredients with irritancy potential. Severity depends on your sensitivity threshold; the table lists the worst offenders first.
IngredientFunctionIrritationEst. amount
Benzyl alcoholA preservative. Can be used to mask unpleasant smell. Can be irritatingHigh~0.35–0.85%est.
Hippophae rhamnoides oilA good emollient. Contains various ingredients including vitamins and fatty acids that could work in the skin to neutralize free radicals and minimize moisture loss - if enough of these compounds is able to penetrate the skin in an active form.High~0.15–0.65%est.
Rosmarinus officinalis leaf extractCan be helpful in reducing inflammation in skin, including inflamed acne. It can be irritatingHigh~0.1–0.4%est.
ParfumAn aromatic blend of unspecified and possibly irritating ingredientsHigh~0.1–0.35%est.
Citrus aurantium amara flower extractUsed as a fragrance for its citrus smell. Can be irritatingHigh~0.1–0.35%est.
LinaloolA fragrance. Can be irritatingHigh~0.05–0.25%est.
LimoneneA common frangrance that can easily irritate skin, especially if exposed to air, light or heatHigh~0.05–0.25%est.
GeraniolA fragrance. Can be irritatingHigh~0.05–0.2%est.
Sucrose polystearateHelps oil and water mix togetherMedium~1.4–2.1%est.
Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitateA vitamin C derivative. Studies show that is might be effective in reducing hyperpigmentation, but there are no studies confirming that it is effectively converted into the bioavailable form of Vitamin C in skin. It is not clear how this derivative compares in effectiveness to the topical application of bioavailable form of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid)Medium~0.8–1.25%est.
Rosa canina fruit oilA great emollient. Contains vitamin E (tocopherol) which may give it some anti-oxidant properties. Can contain volatile compounds and can be irritatingMedium~0.5–1.2%est.
Sodium dehydroacetateA preservativeMedium~0.3–0.6%est.
Sodium stearoyl glutamateHelps oil and water mix togetherMedium~0.2–0.7%est.
Citric acidCan work as an exfoliant but is typically used to adjust the product pHMedium~0.1–0.5%est.
Magnesium ascorbyl phosphateA derivative of vitamin C that is more stable, but less bioavailable than the pure form of vitamin C. It does not penetrate the skin well, but has been shown to convert to pure vitamin C once in skin. It can be helpful in stimulating collagen production and lightening the skin tone, but the required concentration is likely to be very highMedium~0.15–0.5%est.
Dehydroacetic acidA preservativeMedium~0.1–0.45%est.
Terminalia ferdinandiana fruit extractA plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant effect in skin, but evidence is lackingMedium~0.1–0.5%est.
Benzoic acidA preservativeMedium~0.05–0.25%est.
Comedogenic
1 ingredient rated 2 or more on the 0–5 pore-clogging scale
1 flagged
These ingredients have a comedogenic rating of 2 or more on a 0–5 scale; the table shows each one's rating. In leave-on products they can clog pores in acne-prone skin.
IngredientFunctionRatingEst. amount
Cetearyl alcoholA non-drying alcohol. Works as an emollient. Helps water and oil mix together and creates a nice product texture2/5~1.1–1.6%est.
Alternatives
Cheaper, or higher on efficacy
Power C - Collagen-boosting & Brightening
Zelens Power C - Collagen-boosting & Brightening
Higher efficacy · 75/10062% match
$63.06
Advanced Brightening Vitamin C Serum
Essano Advanced Brightening Vitamin C Serum
Higher efficacy · 75/10058% match
View all alternatives

User reviews

Would you recommend?
No community reviews yet.

Be the first — your take helps the next person decide.

Ingredients

Filter by role to see what each ingredient is doing.

Water~40–60%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Plain old water

More about Water
Glycerin~3.9–5.9%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

One of the best moisturizing ingredients. Naturally present in skin. It attracts water to the upper layer of the skin working as a humectant

More about Glycerin
Coco-caprylate/caprate~3.7–5.5%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps to soften the upper layer of the skin without creating a greasy texture

More about Coco-caprylate/caprate
Propanediol~2.7–4%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Acts as a solvent for other ingredients. Speeds up the absorption of other ingredients into the skin

More about Propanediol
Diisooctyl succinate~2.1–3.1%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Diisooctyl succinate
Squalane~1.7–2.6%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

An oil naturally present in skin. Works as an emollient to soften the skin and form a protective layer on its surface without a greasy feeling.

More about Squalane
Sucrose polystearate~1.4–2.1%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Sucrose polystearate
Punica granatum seed oil~1.3–1.9%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps soften the upper layer of the skin

More about Punica granatum seed oil
Cetearyl alcohol~1.1–1.6%
Key activeComedogenic 2/5
Irritation risk
Low
Comedogenicity
2/5
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

A non-drying alcohol. Works as an emollient. Helps water and oil mix together and creates a nice product texture

More about Cetearyl alcohol
Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate~0.8–1.25%
Under-dosedIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Anti-oxidationEvens skin toneAnti-agingMoisturizing

A vitamin C derivative. Studies show that is might be effective in reducing hyperpigmentation, but there are no studies confirming that it is effectively converted into the bioavailable form of Vitamin C in skin. It is not clear how this derivative compares in effectiveness to the topical application of bioavailable form of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid)

More about Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate
Rosa canina fruit oil~0.5–1.2%
Under-dosedIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-oxidation

A great emollient. Contains vitamin E (tocopherol) which may give it some anti-oxidant properties. Can contain volatile compounds and can be irritating

More about Rosa canina fruit oil
Benzyl alcohol~0.35–0.85%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

A preservative. Can be used to mask unpleasant smell. Can be irritating

More about Benzyl alcohol
Helianthus annuus seed oil~0.35–0.85%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

A great emollient due to its high linoleic acid content. One of the most effective plant oils in helping skin hydration and repairing skin barrier function

More about Helianthus annuus seed oil
Hylocereus undatus fruit extract~0.3–0.75%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Hylocereus undatus fruit extract
Xanthan gum~0.3–0.7%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing

Used to create a thicker product consistency

More about Xanthan gum
Glycogen~0.2–0.75%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin

More about Glycogen
Sodium dehydroacetate~0.3–0.6%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about Sodium dehydroacetate
Hydrolyzed lupine protein~0.15–0.65%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Hydrolyzed lupine protein
Sodium hyaluronate~0.15–0.6%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

One of the best moisturizing ingredients. Attracts water into the upper layer of the skin

More about Sodium hyaluronate
Sodium stearoyl glutamate~0.2–0.7%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Sodium stearoyl glutamate
Hippophae rhamnoides oil~0.15–0.65%
Key activeIrritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-oxidation

A good emollient. Contains various ingredients including vitamins and fatty acids that could work in the skin to neutralize free radicals and minimize moisture loss - if enough of these compounds is able to penetrate the skin in an active form.

More about Hippophae rhamnoides oil
Citric acid~0.1–0.5%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Can work as an exfoliant but is typically used to adjust the product pH

More about Citric acid
Olea europaea oil unsaponifiables~0.1–0.45%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Help soften the upper layer of the skin

More about Olea europaea oil unsaponifiables
Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate~0.15–0.5%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Evens skin toneAnti-agingAnti-oxidation

A derivative of vitamin C that is more stable, but less bioavailable than the pure form of vitamin C. It does not penetrate the skin well, but has been shown to convert to pure vitamin C once in skin. It can be helpful in stimulating collagen production and lightening the skin tone, but the required concentration is likely to be very high

More about Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate
Dehydroacetic acid~0.1–0.45%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about Dehydroacetic acid
Terminalia ferdinandiana fruit extract~0.1–0.5%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Anti-oxidation

A plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant effect in skin, but evidence is lacking

More about Terminalia ferdinandiana fruit extract
Rosmarinus officinalis leaf extract~0.1–0.4%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Anti-blemishAntibacterialAnti-oxidation

Can be helpful in reducing inflammation in skin, including inflamed acne. It can be irritating

More about Rosmarinus officinalis leaf extract
Parfum~0.1–0.35%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

An aromatic blend of unspecified and possibly irritating ingredients

More about Parfum
Citrus aurantium amara flower extract~0.1–0.35%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

Used as a fragrance for its citrus smell. Can be irritating

More about Citrus aurantium amara flower extract
Linalool~0.05–0.25%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

A fragrance. Can be irritating

More about Linalool
Limonene~0.05–0.25%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

A common frangrance that can easily irritate skin, especially if exposed to air, light or heat

More about Limonene
Geraniol~0.05–0.2%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

A fragrance. Can be irritating

More about Geraniol
Benzoic acid~0.05–0.25%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about Benzoic acid
Sodium hydroxide~0.05–0.15%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used to adjust the product's pH

More about Sodium hydroxide
Ingredient list view

Water, Glycerin, Coco-caprylate/caprate, Propanediol, Diisooctyl succinate, Squalane, Sucrose polystearate, Punica granatum seed oil, Cetearyl alcohol, Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate, Rosa canina fruit oil, Benzyl alcohol, Helianthus annuus seed oil, Hylocereus undatus fruit extract, Xanthan gum, Glycogen, Sodium dehydroacetate, Hydrolyzed lupine protein, Sodium hyaluronate, Sodium stearoyl glutamate, Hippophae rhamnoides oil, Citric acid, Olea europaea oil unsaponifiables, Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, Dehydroacetic acid, Terminalia ferdinandiana fruit extract, Rosmarinus officinalis leaf extract, Parfum, Citrus aurantium amara flower extract, Linalool, Limonene, Geraniol, Benzoic acid, Sodium hydroxide

Compare prices

Retailers ranked by price — lowest first.

SpaceNK US
$65.00 Out of stock
Check
Amazon US
Price unavailable Out of stock
Check

Affiliate links · As an Amazon Associate, WIMJ earns from qualifying purchases.

Worth comparing, line by line.

Match % combines shared ingredients, the first five ingredients, shared actives and hero ingredients, irritancy (lower counts in the alternative's favour), texture and body area. Only products in the same routine step are compared.

Side-by-side comparison of this product against its closest alternatives
Ren SkincareGlow and Protect SerumYOUR PRODUCTZelensPower C - Collagen-boosting & BrighteningEssanoAdvanced Brightening Vitamin C SerumMANTLETHE WOW SERUM
Match—62%58%58%
Price—$63.06——
Shared key ingredients—4 of 85 of 84 of 8
Key difference—Saccharomyces Ferment Lysate FiltrateBetaineBeta-Sitosterol
Irritancy High Low Medium Medium
Drying alcohol————
View product Shop Shop Shop
  • matches yours
  • differs
  • cheaper

More alternatives: Qiriness Booster Temps Sublime Global Well-Aging ConcentrateSynergie Skin Effica C

Cheaper alternatives? See how this stacks up against similar formulas.
We compare ingredient profiles across our catalog — pick the closest match for your budget.
Open dupe finder

Sources cited in this review

Every concentration estimate and effectiveness label is anchored to one of these 20 studies and safety reviews.

  1. 1
    Glycerol and the skin: holistic approach to its origin and functionsncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  2. 2
    Safety Assessment of Alkyl Esters as Used in Cosmeticscir-safety.org
  3. 3
    Assessment of penetration of Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate into biological membranes by molecular dynamicssciencedirect.com
  4. 4
    Stability evaluation of tocopheryl acetate and ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate in isolation and incorporated in cosmetic formulations using thermal analysisscielo.br
  5. 5
    A new lipophilic pro-vitamin C, tetra-isopalmitoyl ascorbic acid (VC-IP), prevents UV-induced skin pigmentation through its anti-oxidative propertiessciencedirect.com
  6. 6
    New lipophilic pro-vitamin C, tetra-isopalmitoyl ascorbic acid (VC-IP), suppresses senile lentigo through controlling of melanocytes-keratinocytes interactionmorressier.com
Ren Skincare Glow and Protect Serum
Ren SkincareGlow and Protect Serum
Find on Amazon

Affiliate links · As an Amazon Associate, WIMJ earns from qualifying purchases.

Find on Amazon

As an Amazon Associate, WIMJ earns from qualifying purchases.