++++
[ DemythSkin Verdict ]

Obagi Medical Professional-C Serum 20%
SerumAntioxidant Protection
Efficacy
Strong
4.3 / 5.0
Safety
Irritant
3.1 / 5.0
System Verdict
Brutally potent vitamin C in a harsh, fragranced, alcohol-heavy base that trades comfort and sensitivity for maximum punch. This serum earns a high efficacy score because it uses S Tier 20% L-ascorbic acid at the top of the INCI with a penetration-enhancing, low‑water, alcohol-rich vehicle that optimizes delivery and pH for brightening and anti-aging, but the heavy denatured alcohol and multiple fragrance allergens drag down tolerability and long-term barrier friendliness, so the power comes with clear irritation risk, especially for sensitive or dry skin.
Active Ingredients Detected
S Tier: Gold StandardsHigh Clinical Proof | Skin-Transformative
Ascorbic Acid
A Tier: Good BasicsProven Results
Aqua / Water / EauAscorbyl GlucosideSodium HyaluronateSorbitol
B Tier: Supporting IngredientsPromising Ingredients
EthoxydiglycolPhenoxyethanolCaprylyl/Capryl GlucosideCalcium HydroxideZinc ChlorideCitric AcidBenzyl Benzoate
C Tier: Marketing IdolsHype | Limited or Weak Data
Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel ExtractCitrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Fruit Extract
D Tier: Potential IrritantsBe Cautious
Alcohol Denat.Fragrance (Parfum)Amyl CinnamalLimoneneHexyl Cinnamal
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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.