Vichy LiftActiv B3 Serum for Dark Spots & Wrinkles - 1.01 fl oz
Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This serum contains beneficial ingredients such as niacinamide, glycolic acid, and tranexamic acid, which are known for their skin-brightening and anti-aging properties. However, the presence of preservatives like phenoxyethanol and chlorphenesin, which can cause irritation in some individuals, slightly lowers its safety profile. The product is moderately processed, which also impacts its overall rating.
Key ingredients 20
NiacinamideGood
Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B3 that is known for its anti-inflammatory and skin-brightening properties. It helps to improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of dark spots. It is highly regarded in skincare for its multiple benefits.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with niacinamide, though overuse may cause mild irritation.
Benefits
It improves skin elasticity, enhances barrier function, and evens out skin tone.
GlycerinGood
Glycerin is a well-known humectant that attracts moisture to the skin. It helps to keep the skin hydrated and soft. It is widely used in skincare products for its moisturizing properties.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.
Benefits
It enhances skin hydration and improves skin barrier function.
Glycolic AcidGood
Glycolic Acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that exfoliates the skin, promoting cell turnover. It helps to improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines. It is effective in treating hyperpigmentation and acne.
Risks
Can cause irritation or sensitivity, especially in high concentrations.
Benefits
Improves skin texture, reduces fine lines, and brightens the complexion.
Tranexamic AcidGood
Tranexamic Acid is known for its ability to reduce hyperpigmentation and dark spots. It works by inhibiting melanin production in the skin. It is effective in improving skin tone and reducing discoloration.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
Reduces dark spots and evens out skin tone.
AllantoinGood
Allantoin is a soothing and moisturizing agent that helps to calm irritated skin. It promotes skin healing and improves skin smoothness. It is widely used in skincare for its protective and hydrating properties.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with allantoin.
Benefits
Soothes and protects the skin, promoting healing and hydration.
Ascorbyl GlucosideGood
Ascorbyl Glucoside is a stable form of Vitamin C that provides antioxidant benefits. It helps to brighten the skin and reduce signs of aging. It is effective in improving skin tone and texture.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.
Benefits
Brightens the skin and provides antioxidant protection.
Aqua/Water/EauNeutral
Water is a common solvent used in cosmetic formulations. It acts as a base for the serum, helping to dissolve other ingredients. It does not provide direct benefits or risks.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with water in cosmetic products.
Benefits
Water helps in the application and absorption of the serum.
Butylene GlycolNeutral
Butylene Glycol is a common humectant that helps to retain moisture in the skin. It also acts as a solvent and improves the texture of the product. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
In rare cases, it may cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It helps to keep the skin hydrated and enhances the penetration of other ingredients.
Hydroxyethylpiperazine Ethane Sulfonic AcidNeutral
This ingredient is used as a buffering agent to maintain the pH balance of the product. It helps to stabilize the formulation. It does not have direct skincare benefits or risks.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with this ingredient in cosmetic formulations.
Benefits
It helps to maintain the stability and effectiveness of the serum.
Hydroxyethyl UreaNeutral
Hydroxyethyl Urea is a moisturizing agent that helps to improve skin hydration. It is used to enhance the texture and feel of the product. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
It provides moisture to the skin, improving its overall feel and appearance.
Sodium HydroxideNeutral
Sodium Hydroxide is used to adjust the pH of cosmetic formulations. It is necessary for maintaining the stability and effectiveness of the product. It does not provide direct skincare benefits.
Risks
In high concentrations, it can be irritating, but it is used in safe amounts in cosmetics.
Benefits
Ensures the product maintains an appropriate pH level for stability.
Caprylyl GlycolNeutral
Caprylyl Glycol is a skin-conditioning agent that helps to improve the texture and feel of the product. It also has antimicrobial properties that enhance the preservation system. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
Improves product texture and provides mild antimicrobial effects.
Hydrolyzed Rice ProteinNeutral
Hydrolyzed Rice Protein is used for its conditioning and moisturizing properties. It helps to improve skin hydration and texture. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
Enhances skin hydration and improves texture.
Vitreoscilla FermentNeutral
Vitreoscilla Ferment is used for its skin-conditioning properties. It helps to improve the overall health and appearance of the skin. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
Improves skin health and appearance.
Trisodium Ethylenediamine DisuccinateNeutral
This ingredient is used as a chelating agent to improve the stability of the product. It helps to bind metal ions that can destabilize the formulation. It does not provide direct skincare benefits.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
Enhances product stability by binding metal ions.
Xanthan GumNeutral
Xanthan Gum is used as a thickening agent to improve the texture and consistency of the product. It helps to stabilize emulsions and suspensions. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
Improves product texture and stability.
Pentylene GlycolNeutral
Pentylene Glycol is a humectant and solvent that helps to retain moisture in the skin. It also has antimicrobial properties that enhance the preservation system. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
Enhances skin hydration and provides mild antimicrobial effects.
Propylene GlycolBad
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
Risks
May cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive skin.
Benefits
It helps to retain moisture and enhances the absorption of other ingredients.
PhenoxyethanolBad
Phenoxyethanol is a preservative used to prevent microbial growth in cosmetics. It is effective but can cause irritation in some individuals. It is considered a safer alternative to parabens but still has potential risks.
Risks
May cause irritation or allergic reactions, especially in sensitive skin.
Benefits
Prevents microbial contamination, extending the product's shelf life.
ChlorphenesinBad
Chlorphenesin is a preservative used to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in cosmetics. It is effective but can cause irritation or allergic reactions. It is considered safe in low concentrations but has potential risks.
Risks
May cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.
Benefits
Helps to preserve the product by preventing microbial growth.
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