5% L-ascorbic acid with centella and botanical extracts — a lower vitamin C dose for sensitive skin. Less sting, less peak potency than 15% formulations. Good entry point for pigmentation if higher doses have failed.
The verdict
What this is good for
✓ Great forDark SpotsDullnesssensitive
• Use with caution ifSensitive skin
The formulation
Ingredient stack
Each ingredient is listed in descending concentration. Above the 1% line the order is regulated — below it, brands can list in any order.
Ingredients above the dashed gold line are dosed above 1% (the regulatory threshold) — these are what the formulation is really built on.
~50–80%Water
~5–25%Propylene Glycol
5%Ascorbic Acid
~2–6%Ethoxydiglycol
~1.5–4%Glycerin
~1–2%5 ingredients
~1–2%Centella Asiat…
~1–2%13 ingredients
≤ 1% each2 more ingredients below 1%
position-estimated %★ brand-disclosed %1% regulatory line
The gold-standard antioxidant for skin. L-Ascorbic Acid neutralises free radicals, inhibits tyrosinase to fade hyperpigmentation, is essential for collagen biosynthesis, and provides measurable photoprotection under SPF. Derivatives like Ascorbyl Glucoside and Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate are more stable and gentler. Results visible in 4–12 weeks.
One of the most clinically validated plant-based actives. Rich in triterpenoid saponins (asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid) with wound-healing, collagen-stimulating, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Asiaticoside stimulates collagen I and III; madecassoside shown efficacious for atopic dermatitis in RCTs.
The closest active-matched alternative is the The Ordinary Ascorbic Acid 8% + Alpha Arbutin 2% (77% active overlap). We found 6 options that share this product’s hero actives.
Skin Stacker is independent and receives no payment from any brand. Ingredient analysis is based on publicly disclosed INCI lists and the peer-reviewed literature. Formulations change — always re-check the label on your specific batch before using.