Anua GREEN LEMON VITA C SERUM 20ML

Values You Can Trust: 100% Genuine • Vegan-Friendly* • Cruelty-Free* • Wudu-Compatible.

If brown spots linger for months after a breakout, you are dealing with Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH). Brown or dark marks (PIH) are excess melanin — they respond to strong Vitamin C like this one. Red or pink marks (PIE) are damaged capillaries — they respond better to Centella and time; a 'brightening' product alone will not fade them rapidly.

Pros: Maximum clinical strength (20%) before the irritation-plateau; utilizes green lemon extract instead of plain water to boost antioxidant capacity; noticeable brightening within 14 days. Caveats: High sting-risk on reactive skin; requires mandatory refrigeration; characteristic metallic L-Ascorbic Acid scent.

*Self-assessed by Adilsons based on available INCI data. No animal-derived ingredients detected. Brand states cruelty-free, but sells products cross-border where regulations vary.

Safety Classification: RED (Clinical actives, not for under 16).

This serum contains 20% pure L-Ascorbic Acid, a highly acidic chemical exfoliant and antioxidant. Prepubescent skin possesses a thinner, more absorbent stratum corneum that does not require accelerated cell turnover or aggressive melanin suppression.

Applying a 20% low-pH serum to tween skin can rapidly induce contact dermatitis and permanently sensitize the barrier. For a safe, age-appropriate hydrating glow, select the Beauty of Joseon Glow Deep Serum instead.

Step 1: AM Routine (Daily, once tolerance is built).

Step 2: 2-3 drops for the entire face.

Step 3: Pat gently onto FULLY DRY skin, wait 1-3 minutes, then apply moisturizer.

Introduce this as the ONLY new product in your routine. Wait a full 14 days before adding anything else. This isolation window ensures you can identify whether any reaction is caused by this specific product.

1. Water Rinse or Gentle Cleanser.
2. Pat skin completely dry (crucial to prevent stinging).
3. Anua Green Lemon Vita C Serum (Wait 1-3 minutes).
4. Barrier-supporting Moisturizer.
5. SPF 50+ PA++++ (Mandatory).

In Mauritius morning humidity, wait until the serum feels fully absorbed and non-tacky before applying your moisturizer, to prevent pilling.

While Vitamin C can technically be used at night, we strongly recommend assigning it to your AM routine. This provides a reservoir of antioxidants to defend against Mauritius's daytime UV index.

If you use exfoliants (AHAs/BHAs) or retinoids, keep them in the PM. Do not layer them with this serum in the same routine.

Apply to fully dry skin. If your skin is damp, the low-pH ascorbic acid penetrates too rapidly and will trigger a sharp stinging sensation. Wait 1-3 minutes before applying your next product to allow the active to settle at its target pH.

Hands deliver 100% of product. Cotton pads absorb approximately 30-40%. Use hands to prevent wasting this high-value active.

This is an encyclopedia map of all product types. You do not use all of these daily. You select modules based on your skin state.

Global Execution Rules: Viscosity ladder: thinnest → thickest; water-phase before oil-phase; treatments before seals. Wait-time defaults: watery layers 10-20s; serum layers 30-60s; before sunscreen 10-15 min if going outdoors or applying makeup. Amount defaults (unless brand-specific instructions override): Watery toner/essence: 5-8 drops per layer (or "coin-size puddle in palm"). Serum/ampoule: 2-3 drops or 1 pump (face), add +1 drop for neck if used. Eye product: ½ rice-grain per eye (very small). Gel moisturizer: 1 pea-1.5 peas; Cream: 1-2 peas. Occlusive seal: rice-grain to pea-size max (thin film). Sunscreen: 2-finger rule for face; +1 finger for neck.

Skin state rules: Hydrators (toners/essences/HA): best on slightly damp skin. Retinoids: best on fully dry skin; if sensitive, wait 10 minutes after cleansing. Exfoliating acids: apply to dry or lightly damp depending on irritation; keep to one lane. Hard cap rule: If routine pills, stings, or feels heavy → reduce layers, not increase.

AM (maximum map):

1. Rinse / Gentle Cleanse (optional) - Amount: 1-2 pumps (or pea-size gel). Wait: rinse, pat to slightly damp (don't fully dry unless using LAA or retinoid later). Use when: oily waking skin, heavy night occlusion, or sweat buildup.
2. pH-Prep / Balancing Toner (optional) - Amount: 5-8 drops (hands). Wait: 10-20s. Purpose: comfort + reduce tightness; not mandatory.
3. Hydrating Toner Layers (1-3 layers, optional) - Amount: 5-8 drops per layer. Wait: 10-20s between layers. Rule: in high humidity, often 1 layer is enough.
4. Essence (optional) - Amount: 5-8 drops. Wait: 10-20s. Note: choose either toner layering or essence stacking if you pill easily.
5. Mist / Thermal Water (optional micro-step) - Amount: 1-2 light sprays. Wait: 10s. Use for: re-dampening between hydrating layers (avoid soaking).
6. Booster / Soothing Serum (optional) (Centella/panthenol/barrier-support) - Amount: 2-3 drops / 1 pump. Wait: 30-60s. Best for: redness, sensitivity, post-acne inflammation.
7. Antioxidant Lane (optional, choose ONE) - Option A: L-Ascorbic Acid Vitamin C serum. Skin state: dry skin (reduces irritation). Amount: 2-3 drops. Wait: 1-3 minutes before next step. Option B: Gentler antioxidant (derivatives, EGCG, ferulic, etc.). Skin state: damp or dry. Wait: 30-60s. Rule: pick one antioxidant product, not two.
8. Pigment Support Lane (optional, choose ONE) (TXA / arbutin / alpha-arbutin / azelaic if AM-tolerated) - Amount: 2-3 drops / 1 pump. Wait: 30-60s. Dependency: pigmentation routines fail without daily SPF.
9. Hydration Serum Lane (optional) (HA / polyglutamic acid / beta-glucan) - Skin state: slightly damp. Amount: 2-3 drops. Wait: 30-60s. Seal rule: must be sealed with moisturizer, especially if spending long hours in AC.
10. Oil-Control / Sebum-Regulating Lane (optional, choose ONE) (niacinamide / zinc / succinic) - Amount: 2-3 drops. Wait: 30-60s. Rule: if using strong actives elsewhere, keep this gentle.
11. Peptides / Growth-Factor / Repair Lane (optional) - Amount: 2-3 drops. Wait: 30-60s. Conflict note: if you use pure LAA, keep peptides in PM if sensitive.
12. Eye Serum/Cream (optional) - Amount: ½ rice-grain per eye. Wait: 10-20s. Placement: before moisturizer (unless very thick eye balm).
13. Moisturizer (gel-cream or cream) - Amount: gel 1-1.5 peas / cream 1-2 peas. Wait: 1 minute before sunscreen if pilling-prone. Climate rule: humid climate often prefers gel textures.
14. Optional Sealing Layer (only if dry/AC) (thin occlusive) - Amount: rice-grain to pea-size max. Wait: 1-2 minutes. Avoid if: clog-prone, oily, or fungal-risk.
15. Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++ (non-negotiable) - Amount: 2-finger rule face (+1 finger neck). Wait: 10-15 minutes before makeup/outdoor sweat. Reapply: every 2 hours of sun exposure.
16. Lip SPF (optional but ideal) - Amount: 1 swipe, reapply like sunscreen.

In AM, prioritize comfort + SPF adherence over stacking. In high humidity, fewer layers often perform better.

PM (maximum map):

1. Micellar (optional pre-cleanse) - Amount: enough to saturate cotton; gentle swipe. Use when: heavy makeup, stubborn sunscreen, or sensitive to double cleanse oils.
2. Oil Cleanser / Balm (if SPF/makeup) - Amount: 1-2 pumps (or grape-size balm). How: massage on dry skin 30-60s → add water to emulsify until milky → rinse. Wait: proceed immediately.
3. Water Cleanser (second cleanse) - Amount: 1-2 pumps. How: gentle 30-60s, rinse. Skin state after: choose fully dry if using retinoids; otherwise slightly damp is fine.
4. pH-Prep Toner (optional) - Amount: 5-8 drops. Wait: 10-20s. Use for: comfort, reduce tightness.
5. Hydrating Toner Layers (1-3 layers, optional) - Amount: 5-8 drops per layer. Wait: 10-20s. Rule: stop early if you start to feel tacky.
6. Essence (optional) - Amount: 5-8 drops. Wait: 10-20s.
7. Soothing / Barrier Serum (optional) - Amount: 2-3 drops. Wait: 30-60s. Best for: buffering active lanes.
8. [Anchor Product] - Amount: use product-type default (serum 2-3 drops / cream 1-2 peas / toner 5-8 drops) unless brand guidance overrides. Wait: If anchor is retinoid: apply on fully dry skin; wait 2-5 minutes before moisturizer if sensitive. If anchor is acid/exfoliant: wait 1-3 minutes. Otherwise: wait 30-60 seconds.
9. Targeted Serum (optional, ONLY if not conflicting) - Amount: 2-3 drops. Wait: 30-60s. Rule: only add if it's a different pathway and doesn't increase irritation.
10. Moisturizer - Amount: gel 1-1.5 peas / cream 1-2 peas. Wait: 1 minute.
11. Sleeping Mask (optional) - Amount: thin layer (pea-size to grape-size depending on texture). Use when: dry, dehydrated, or barrier-support nights.
12. Occlusive Seal (optional; avoid if clog-prone) - Amount: rice-grain to pea-size max. Use when: very dry/AC-heavy lifestyle or barrier repair phase.
13. Spot Treatment / Pimple Patch (as needed) - Spot gel: rice-grain amount only on lesion. Patch: apply on clean, dry skin; press 5 seconds.
14. Lip Sleeping Mask (optional) - Amount: thin swipe.

Do not layer retinoids with AHA/BHA in the same night; keep 'one lane' per night.

LANE STRICTNESS: One-lane rule: Retinoid OR Exfoliation OR Strong Vitamin C (LAA) OR Acne-control active per routine; barrier/hydration can always accompany. If unsure: default to the safest lane = barrier/hydration, and reduce layers.

This is a Tier 2 (Light fluid) water-based serum. In the viscosity ladder, it applies immediately after your cleanser or very thin watery toner.

It must be applied before thicker emulsions, lotions, or creams. Because pure Ascorbic Acid functions optimally at a low pH (~3.5), applying it first ensures nothing buffers or neutralizes the acid before it penetrates the stratum corneum.

Start with 3 non-consecutive mornings per week. Rest days are critical during weeks 1-2 to allow the skin to adapt to the high acid load. Exceeding this does NOT produce faster results — it produces barrier damage.

Results stabilize after 12 weeks. Continued use maintains improvements but does not produce further dramatic fading. Do NOT increase dosage seeking additional results; stick to 2-3 drops.

Before starting this product, your routine MUST already include: a reliable gentle cleanser, a barrier-supporting moisturizer, and strict daily SPF50+ usage. Without these foundations, this product causes more harm than benefit.

Barrier Index Gate: If your skin stings on plain moisturizer, feels tight within 30 minutes of cleansing, or shows visible flaking — your barrier is below threshold. Start with a ceramide barrier repair cream first before attempting 20% Ascorbic Acid.

For Fitzpatrick Types IV-VI, treating hyperpigmentation requires patience. Rebound hyperpigmentation can occur if inflammation is triggered by using too much product too fast. Stick to the phased onboarding protocol.

Hyperpigmentation (PIH): L-Ascorbic Acid actively interrupts the tyrosinase enzyme pathway, inhibiting melanin production at the cellular level to fade existing dark spots. It also acts as an essential co-factor for natural collagen synthesis.

If your marks are red/pink (PIE), this product provides antioxidant support, but it will not rapidly constrict or heal the damaged capillaries causing the redness. Azelaic acid or Centella are superior for PIE.

Cannot physically shrink pores or "erase" deep atrophic acne scars. 'Brightening' means fading excess pigment to match your natural tone, not changing your genetic complexion.

• SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum: Provides the mandatory UV protection required when using Vitamin C, while soothing the skin. Use AM.
• PURITO B5 Panthenol Re-barrier Cream: Delivers essential B5 to buffer the acidic load of the serum and repair the moisture barrier. Use AM/PM.

If this serum pills, it is usually because a heavy silicone-based moisturizer or primer was applied before the ascorbic acid fully dried. Wait a full 60-120 seconds before sealing.

This is a conflict-solver for ACTIVE ingredients. If you run multiple actives, use these rules to avoid irritation, deactivation, and barrier damage.

Universal Rules: One Active Lane per routine: In a single AM or PM routine, run only one primary "active lane" (Retinoid OR Acid Exfoliation OR L-Ascorbic Acid Vitamin C OR Benzoyl Peroxide). If you break a rule: Don't "push through." Reduce frequency, split AM/PM, or alternate nights. Barrier override: If moisturizer stings or skin feels tight within 30 minutes of cleansing → pause all actives and run barrier-only for 3-7 days.

B) Vitamin C Lane Conflicts (L-Ascorbic Acid focus)

L-Ascorbic Acid × Benzoyl Peroxide
Rule: Never combine (oxidation → loss of Vitamin C activity).
Instead: Vitamin C AM, BPO PM (or alternate days).

L-Ascorbic Acid × Copper Peptides
Rule: Separate (copper ions can accelerate oxidation; low pH can destabilize peptides).
Instead: Vitamin C AM, copper peptides PM (or alternate days).

L-Ascorbic Acid × AHAs/BHAs (separate products)
Rule: Avoid layering (excess acidity → stinging + barrier irritation).
Instead: AM Vitamin C / PM Acids. If insisting: Vitamin C first, wait 15-20 min, then acid (still higher risk).

L-Ascorbic Acid × High-% Niacinamide (sensitive skin)
Rule: Generally compatible in modern formulas, but can trigger temporary harmless flushing in reactive skin.
Instead: Wait 10-15 min after Vitamin C before niacinamide, or split AM/PM.

Retinoids × L-Ascorbic Acid (pure Vitamin C)
Rule: Don't layer in same routine (irritation load + incompatible pH preferences).
Instead: AM Vitamin C / PM Retinoid (classic split).

Template A: AM/PM Split (most common)
AM: Antioxidant lane (Anua Vita C) → Moisturizer → SPF
PM: Retinoid OR Acid lane → Moisturizer

Template C: Alternate-Night Protocol (if AM use is impossible)
Mon/Wed/Fri: Retinoid
Tue/Sat: Anua Vita C
Thu/Sun: Recovery (Hydration only)

Permeability: Water-Permeable (wudu-compatible).

This is a water-based, rapidly absorbing aqueous serum containing no heavy occlusives or impermeable silicones. It penetrates the stratum corneum and does not form a water-blocking physical barrier on the skin's surface.

Adilsons provides this assessment based on the product's physical properties. Rulings on wudu validity vary between scholars. Consult your own trusted Islamic authority.

MYTH: 'A higher percentage of Vitamin C is always better for faster results.' REALITY: Clinical data shows skin absorption of L-Ascorbic Acid peaks at 20%. Formulations exceeding 20% do not yield superior clinical results, they only drastically increase the risk of severe barrier irritation.

MYTH: 'Vitamin C makes your skin sensitive to the sun, so only use it at night.' REALITY: Vitamin C is an antioxidant that neutralizes UV-induced free radicals. When worn under SPF in the AM, it acts as a secondary defense shield against solar damage.

July-November: PM2.5 increases during sugar cane harvest burns. Increase AM use for enhanced pollution defense, as L-Ascorbic Acid aggressively neutralizes the free radicals generated by airborne particulate matter.

Free Acid Value: Ascorbic Acid functions strictly at a pH below 3.5. This product is formulated at a low pH to ensure the 20% concentration remains in its free, active form to penetrate the stratum corneum.

Full INCI: Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract (56%), Ascorbic Acid (20%), Propanediol, Butylene Glycol, Dipropylene Glycol, Cyclopentasiloxane, 1,2-Hexanediol, Cyclohexasiloxane, Sodium Hydroxide, C12-14 Alketh-12, Alpha-Bisabolol, Sodium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Water, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Allantoin, Glycerin, Glutathione, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Flower Oil, Litsea Cubeba Fruit Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil, [--- Estimated 1% Line ---] Panthenol, Ceramide NP, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Tocopherol.

*Clinical evidence for ascorbic acid stability highlights that it degrades rapidly in the presence of heat, light, and water. Proper storage is imperative.

Fragrance Status: Contains Essential Oils (Orange, Litsea Cubeba, Pelargonium).

Scent Description: Distinctive metallic, slightly smoky or "hot dog water" scent mixed with faint citrus. The metallic odor is the natural, unavoidable scent of pure, high-concentration L-Ascorbic Acid. It is completely normal and dissipates within 1-2 minutes.

Alcohol-Free: No drying SD alcohols detected in the declared INCI.

Vegan Status: Vegan-Friendly.*

Cruelty-Free Status: Cruelty-Free.*

Microplastic-Free: No solid microplastic polymers detected in the ingredient breakdown.

*Self-assessed by Adilsons based on available INCI data. No animal-derived ingredients detected. Brand states cruelty-free, but sells products in Mainland China where post-market animal testing may be required by law. Cross-border e-commerce sales may be exempt.

MFDS Classification: Functional Cosmetic. This means the Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety has reviewed and approved specific efficacy data for its brightening claims.

The Korean '미백' (mibaek) classification means regulation of melanin production — fading dark spots to reveal your natural tone. It does NOT bleach or change your natural complexion.

Evidence Confidence: High. L-Ascorbic Acid at 20% is one of the most thoroughly documented cosmetic actives in dermatological literature.

Fungal Acne Safety: FA-Conditional. Contains some esters and oils that may interact with Malassezia in highly prone individuals. Monitor carefully if you have an active FA flare.

Pilling Assessment: Low to Medium.

Because the serum utilizes a high concentration of active powder dissolved in a solvent matrix, rubbing heavy silicone primers or rich physical sunscreens over it before it has fully dried will cause the polymers to bunch up (pill).

Mitigation: Wait a full 60-120 seconds for the serum to absorb completely. Use a patting motion for subsequent layers, do not rub or drag.

CRITICAL STORAGE REQUIREMENT: You MUST store this serum in the refrigerator immediately upon opening. Pure 20% L-Ascorbic Acid is highly unstable. In Mauritius's ambient heat and humidity, it will oxidize within weeks if left on a vanity.

Color Baseline: A fresh bottle ranges from completely clear to pale champagne yellow. As it oxidizes, it shifts to dark yellow, then orange, then brown.

Spoilage Signs: If the liquid turns dark orange or brown, discard it. Oxidized Vitamin C is biologically useless and can actually generate skin-damaging free radicals. When in doubt, discard.

Patch Test: Due to the 20% acid concentration, apply a single drop to the inner forearm for 24h, then behind the ear for 24h, before beginning facial use.

72-Hour Barrier Reset: If adverse reaction occurs: STOP ALL ACTIVES. For 72 hours, use ONLY gentle cleanser + plain moisturizer + mineral SPF. NO acids, retinoids, Vitamin C, exfoliants, or essential oils. After 72h, reintroduce ONE product per 14 days.

Emergency Stop Signals: Hives, swelling, blistering, persistent intense burning (not just tingling), or breathing difficulty require immediate cessation and medical attention.

1. Applying to damp skin: Water accelerates the acid's penetration, leading to unnecessary stinging and burning. Always dry completely.
2. Leaving it on the bathroom counter: Humidity and heat will rapidly degrade the 20% Ascorbic Acid. Fridge storage is non-negotiable.
3. Layering with AHA/BHA: Creating an overly acidic environment on the skin will strip your barrier lipids in days.
4. Skipping SPF: Fading pigmentation is mathematically impossible if you do not block the UV rays actively producing new melanin.
5. Using an oxidized product: Brown vitamin C causes free radical damage. Accept the PAO (Period After Opening) limit of ~3 months.

Volume: 20ml. Recommended amount per use: 2-3 drops (approx. 0.3ml). Uses per container: approximately 60-70 applications.

At recommended daily AM dosage: depletes in approximately 60 days (2 months). Because the formulation oxidizes rapidly, this timeline perfectly aligns with its safe functional lifespan.

Reorder in approximately 1.5 months to ensure you have fresh stock right as your current bottle begins to oxidize and shift color.

Maximize antioxidant defense while protecting the lipid barrier.

This routine buffers the 20% LAA (Viscosity Tier 2) with subsequent restorative layers.

AM Routine:

1. Gentle Water Wash (Pat fully dry).
2. Anua Green Lemon Vita C Serum (2-3 drops, wait 1-3 minutes).
3. PURITO B5 Panthenol Re-barrier Cream (1-1.5 peas, wait 60s).
4. SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum (2-finger rule, wait 10 mins).

PM Routine:

1. SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil (massage dry, emulsify, rinse).
2. COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser (lather, rinse).
3. Barrier/Hydration Serum or Retinoid (Wait 30-60s).
4. Moisturizer (1-2 peas).

If/Then Branches:

• If your skin is barrier-compromised right now, pause the Anua serum immediately and rely only on the Purito B5 cream until stinging stops.
• If you are running a PM Retinoid lane, ensure your morning wash thoroughly removes any PM residue before applying the Ascorbic Acid.

After purchasing, you will receive our skincare education email series covering this product in depth.

The recommendations above are based on formulation synergy with Anua Green Lemon Vita C Serum, not on margin or stock levels. If a pairing does not exist in our catalog, we say so. If you already own a product that fills the same role, use what you have first.

If you have sensitive skin, rosacea, or are new to Vitamin C, 20% pure Ascorbic Acid is likely too aggressive. A gentler derivative is safer and doesn't require refrigeration.

Alternative: Goodal Green Tangerine Vita C Dark Spot Care Serum. You trade off the maximum rapid clinical strength of pure LAA, but you gain massive tolerability, shelf stability (no fridge needed), and zero stinging risk.

Choose Anua Green Lemon Vita C Serum over Goodal Green Tangerine if you need maximum dose density: it utilizes 20% pure L-Ascorbic Acid for the highest ceiling of tyrosinase inhibition before the irritation threshold.

Upgrade to THIS if…

• If you have hit a plateau fading dark marks with Vitamin C derivatives → upgrade because pure LAA operates via a more direct biological pathway.
• If your barrier is highly resilient and you tolerate strong acids well → upgrade because you can handle the low pH delivery system.
• If you prioritize rapid clinical results over sensory comfort → upgrade because pure LAA acts faster than encapsulated derivatives.

Timing & Lane Compatibility:

• Keep this strictly in your AM lane to utilize its antioxidant properties against UV stress.
• If you already run a retinoid lane, keep this in AM. Do not layer.
• Apply on completely dry skin for best tolerance.

Do NOT upgrade to THIS if…

• Your barrier stings/tightens after cleansing (barrier below threshold).
• You cannot commit to daily SPF (pigment will rebound).
• You cannot store the product in a refrigerator consistently.
• You are breakout-prone to intense chemical exfoliants.

If you match 2 or more upgrade triggers above, THIS is worth choosing. If not, the alternative is sufficient and safer. Consistency beats complexity.

This product's PRIMARY function is: intense antioxidant defense and melanin suppression. You do NOT need this if you already own: an open bottle of a pure L-Ascorbic Acid serum (15%+) from another brand. Finish your current product before purchasing.

Check your current shelf. Do you have an open product with the same primary active? Pure Vitamin C loses efficacy rapidly after opening (PAO = 2-3 months). Buying new while old expires is literal waste.

Combining with a similar product: No Benefit (same mechanism) and massive irritation risk.

This product is sourced through authorized Korean distributors — primarily Craver Co., Ltd (South Korea), alongside other verified distribution partners. Craver is a major Korean beauty distributor. All products are shipped directly to Mauritius via verified channels.

For comprehensive information about how we verify authenticity, our layered verification system, and how to check your product at home, visit our dedicated Authenticity and Trust page.

Anua (아누아) is a Korean skincare brand headquartered in Seoul, operating with a formulation philosophy centered on high concentrations of singular, potent natural extracts. Rather than diluting active ingredients with standard water, Anua frequently utilizes plant extracts (like Heartleaf or Green Lemon) as the base solvent. Their approach marries minimalist ingredient lists with maximum functional payload.

Reddit (r/AsianBeauty) users frequently highlight the rapid fading of post-acne marks, noting that the 20% concentration works faster than popular 5-10% alternatives. They appreciate the lightweight texture.

However, users with sensitive or barrier-compromised skin report significant stinging and redness upon application, confirming it is not for beginners.

A consistent warning across platforms is the oxidation rate. Many users note that if left out of the fridge, the serum turns orange within weeks. Common Praise: Rapid brightening, absorbs cleanly. Common Complaints: Metallic smell, stings on broken skin, fast oxidation.

The opaque packaging is intentionally engineered to block UV light, which degrades ascorbic acid. Do not transfer this product into clear travel bottles.

Do I really have to keep this in the fridge?

Yes. Pure 20% L-Ascorbic Acid degrades rapidly when exposed to heat. In Mauritius, leaving it on your vanity will cause it to oxidize (turn brown) and become ineffective within a few weeks.

Why does it smell like metallic hot dog water?

That is the natural, unmasked scent of pure L-Ascorbic Acid reacting with the skin's chemistry. It is completely normal and indicates a high-strength active, not a spoiled product.

Can I use this with my retinol?

No, not in the same routine. Using 20% Vitamin C and Retinol together will overwhelm your skin barrier. Use Vitamin C in the morning and Retinol at night.

Is the stinging normal?

A mild tingling for 30 seconds is a normal response to the low pH. Intense or prolonged burning means your skin barrier is compromised, and you should stop using it immediately.

L-Ascorbic Acid (LAA)

The purest, most clinically proven form of Vitamin C. It is highly effective but famously unstable in water and heat.

Oxidation

The chemical process where an ingredient degrades due to exposure to oxygen, light, or heat. In Vitamin C, this is visible as the liquid turning brown.

PIH (Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation)

The flat, brown marks left behind after a pimple heals, caused by excess melanin production during the healing process.

Free Radicals

Unstable molecules generated by UV rays and pollution that damage skin cells. Antioxidants (like Vitamin C) neutralize them.

Stratum Corneum

The outermost layer of your skin, consisting of dead skin cells and lipids, acting as your primary barrier against the environment.

Every product sold by Adilsons Beauty is 100% genuine, sourced through authorized Korean distribution channels. Full details on our verification system: Authenticity and Trust.

Our team is available to help you build a routine, troubleshoot reactions, and answer ingredient questions. WhatsApp: +230 5 778 2336.

For in-depth skincare education, visit our blog at adilsons.mu/blogs/k-beauty or subscribe to our email to get our guided education series delivered to your inbox.

Coverage: Island-wide delivery (Mauritius).

Processing and Timing: Orders process in 1-2 business days; usually ready by Day 3 for pickup by our delivery partners/regional team. Partner collection can take up to 1 week. After pickup, delivery typically takes 1-5 business days (weekdays only).

Express: May be available by region; request on WhatsApp: +230 5 778 2336.

Liquids/Sensitive Items: Serums, toners, liquid makeup (and kits containing liquids) are pickup or door-to-door only; checkout enforces this.

Scheduling: Deliveries run by region on set schedules; we will contact you the evening before.

Pickup: Citadelle Mall pickup available.

Returns: No change-of-mind exchanges.

Refunds (Summary): For defective/damaged on receipt (report within 48h), wrong item, or manufacturing defect within 6 months. Refunds via bank transfer (7-10 business days); card refunds may incur a 5% processor fee (fee not charged for defects/order errors). Opened skincare/personal-care items are non-returnable (except if damaged on delivery).

Source of Truth: This is a quick snapshot. If anything differs, the policy pages are final.

Store Policies: For the most up-to-date information, please review our Shipping Policy and Refund Policy.

Best For: Resilient skin types battling stubborn post-acne hyperpigmentation who are ready to graduate to maximum clinical strength.

Key Benefits: 20% L-Ascorbic Acid operates at the absolute ceiling of proven topical efficacy. It physically interrupts the melanin synthesis pathway and provides profound daytime defense against UV-induced oxidative stress.

Keep in Mind: This is a volatile, high-maintenance active. It absolutely mandates refrigeration, strict SPF usage, and it will painfully sting a compromised barrier.

• Week 1-2: Introduce this product alone at low frequency (details in table below). Monitor for stinging, redness, or breakouts.
• Week 3-4: If stable, increase frequency per table below.
• Week 5+: Add one support product only if needed.

If irritation at any point: 72-hour barrier reset (see Section 33B). Do not "push through" burning.

This product must be introduced as the ONLY new product. Wait 14 days before adding anything else to isolate variables.

Antioxidant Pollution Defense: L-Ascorbic Acid acts as an electron donor, chemically neutralizing superoxide and hydroxyl free radicals generated by UV exposure and urban smog. This prevents the cascade of oxidative stress that breaks down collagen.

During the Mauritius sugar cane burning season (July-November), airborne PM2.5 generates intense free radical damage upon skin contact. Utilizing this serum in your AM routine under sunscreen provides a biological shield against this specific environmental aggressor.

End of Week 2: Any persistent redness or burning? YES → stay at Week 1-2 frequency for 2 more weeks. NO → proceed to Week 3.