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[ DemythSkin Verdict ]
Dr. Althea Gentle Vitamin C Serum
SerumBrightening
Efficacy
Strong
4.0 / 5.0
Safety
Safe
4.6 / 5.0
System Verdict
This is a genuinely well-formulated beginner vitamin C/niacinamide serum with solid brightening power at a gentle, barrier-friendly base. Efficacy is strong because the formula combines S Tier brightening actives (5% niacinamide, 3‑O‑ethyl ascorbic acid, and 20% sea buckthorn water) high in the INCI, supported by humectants and soothing agents, and avoids unstable L‑ascorbic acid or harsh exfoliants, though the vitamin C derivative is slightly weaker than pure L‑ascorbic at equivalent percentages.
Active Ingredients Detected
A Tier: Good BasicsProven Results
WaterNiacinamideCaprylic/Capric Triglyceride3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic AcidAdenosineAllantoinBifida Ferment Filtrate
B Tier: Supporting IngredientsPromising Ingredients
Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit WaterPropanediol1,2-HexanediolCamellia Sinensis Leaf WaterCastor Oil/IPDI CopolymerAcrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate CrosspolymerTromethamineXanthan GumDisodium EDTAButylene GlycolCaprylyl Glycol
C Tier: Marketing IdolsHype | Limited or Weak Data
Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Extract
D Tier: Potential IrritantsBe Cautious
Ethylhexylglycerin
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DemythSkin is an independent ingredient analyzer. Scores are computed by a deterministic rubric from published clinical evidence — no brand pays for a score.