How to tell if your vitamin C is working—or working against you.
When it comes to skincare, not all Vitamin C serums are created equal. The truth? An unstable formula can do more harm than good.
If you're using L-ascorbic acid—the most potent form of Vitamin C—you need to watch out for signs of oxidation and degradation. Here are 3 quick ways to tell if your serum might be sabotaging your skin:
1. The Color Changed
Did your serum start off clear or pale yellow... and now it’s a murky orange or brown?
That’s a red flag. This color shift usually means your vitamin C is oxidizing—breaking down and losing effectiveness. And once it’s oxidized, it can actually generate free radicals instead of neutralizing them.
2. It Smells... Off
A fresh serum should smell clean or citrusy. But if yours smells like metallic pennies, hot dog water, or anything funky—it’s probably gone bad.
Vitamin C’s breakdown products can create an unpleasant odor, which is a clear sign it’s time to toss it.
3. Sudden Skin Irritation
If your once-gentle serum suddenly starts to sting, itch, or cause redness, that could mean it's become unstable. Degraded Vitamin C can trigger sensitivity, especially on delicate or compromised skin.
Hot Tip:
To make your serum last longer, store it in a cool, dark place and always tighten the cap after use. Exposure to light, air, and heat speeds up oxidation.
Looking for a Stable Formula That Actually Works?
ELASCO’s MAGI-C SERUM is powered by 20% highly stabilized L-ascorbic acid, combined with peptides and antioxidants for real, visible results—without the breakdown drama.
It’s sealed in an airless, opaque pump bottle to protect every drop of glow-boosting power.
💡 Stop. Look. Sniff. Don’t let your serum go rogue.
Upgrade your skincare game with science that lasts.