CeraVe Skin Renewing Vitamin C Serum - 1 fl oz: For Face, Mature Skin Types, Paraben-Free, Contains Hyaluronic Acid
Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This serum contains beneficial ingredients like Vitamin C, glycerin, and ceramides, which are known for their skin-rejuvenating and hydrating properties. However, the presence of denatured alcohol, which can be drying and potentially disruptive to the skin barrier, lowers its overall safety profile. The product also includes some synthetic compounds, which contribute to a moderate level of processing.
Key ingredients 26
Ceramide APVery Good
Ceramide AP is another type of ceramide that supports the skin's natural barrier and hydration levels. It is essential for maintaining skin health and resilience. It is particularly beneficial for dry and compromised skin.
Benefits
Supports skin barrier function and hydration.
Ceramide EOPVery Good
Ceramide EOP is a key component of the skin's lipid barrier, helping to protect against environmental damage and moisture loss. It is vital for maintaining skin integrity and hydration. It is especially beneficial for dry and sensitive skin.
Benefits
Protects skin barrier and prevents moisture loss.
Ascorbic AcidGood
Ascorbic Acid, also known as Vitamin C, is a potent antioxidant that helps protect the skin from free radical damage. It is known to brighten the skin and improve the appearance of aging. It is highly valued in skincare for its protective and rejuvenating properties.
Risks
May cause irritation in sensitive skin types if used in high concentrations.
Benefits
Helps in collagen synthesis and provides antioxidant protection.
GlycerinGood
Glycerin is a humectant that attracts moisture to the skin, helping to keep it hydrated. It is widely used in skincare for its moisturizing properties. It is generally well-tolerated and beneficial for maintaining skin hydration.
Risks
Rarely, it can cause irritation if used in very high concentrations.
Benefits
Helps maintain skin hydration and barrier function.
PanthenolGood
Panthenol is a form of Vitamin B5 that acts as a moisturizer and skin conditioning agent. It helps improve skin hydration and elasticity. It is well-regarded for its soothing and healing properties.
Risks
Rarely, it may cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Improves skin hydration and has soothing properties.
Ceramide NPGood
Ceramide NP is a lipid that helps restore the skin's barrier function and retain moisture. It is crucial for maintaining healthy skin and preventing moisture loss. It is highly beneficial for dry and sensitive skin types.
Benefits
Restores skin barrier and retains moisture.
Sodium HyaluronateGood
Sodium Hyaluronate is a form of hyaluronic acid that helps retain moisture in the skin, providing intense hydration. It is highly effective in improving skin plumpness and reducing the appearance of fine lines. It is well-regarded for its hydrating and anti-aging benefits.
Benefits
Provides intense hydration and improves skin plumpness.
CholesterolGood
Cholesterol is a lipid that helps maintain the skin's barrier function and hydration levels. It is essential for healthy skin and is often used in combination with ceramides. It is beneficial for restoring skin barrier and improving moisture retention.
Benefits
Maintains skin barrier and improves hydration.
Tocopheryl AcetateGood
Tocopheryl Acetate is a form of Vitamin E that acts as an antioxidant, protecting the skin from free radical damage. It is known for its moisturizing and skin-conditioning properties. It is beneficial for improving skin health and appearance.
Benefits
Provides antioxidant protection and improves skin health.
PhytosphingosineGood
Phytosphingosine is a lipid that helps maintain the skin's barrier function and has antimicrobial properties. It is beneficial for improving skin health and reducing inflammation. It is particularly useful for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Benefits
Maintains skin barrier and has antimicrobial properties.
Aqua / Water / EauNeutral
Water is a common solvent used in cosmetic formulations. It helps dissolve other ingredients and provides a base for the product. It does not have any direct benefits or risks.
Benefits
Provides a medium for other ingredients to be delivered to the skin.
Cetearyl EthylhexanoateNeutral
Cetearyl Ethylhexanoate is an emollient that helps to soften and smooth the skin. It is used to enhance the texture and spreadability of skincare products. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Improves skin texture and provides a smooth application.
Sodium HydroxideNeutral
Sodium Hydroxide is used to adjust the pH of cosmetic formulations. It is effective in small amounts to ensure product stability and safety. It is generally safe when used in low concentrations.
Risks
Can be irritating in high concentrations, but typically used in safe amounts.
Benefits
Helps maintain the stability and safety of the product.
Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl TaurateNeutral
This ingredient is used as a thickening agent and stabilizer in cosmetic formulations. It helps improve the texture and consistency of the product. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Benefits
Enhances product texture and stability.
CarbomerNeutral
Carbomer is used as a thickening agent to create gel-like textures in cosmetic products. It helps stabilize emulsions and improve product consistency. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Benefits
Improves product texture and stability.
Cetearyl AlcoholNeutral
Cetearyl Alcohol is a fatty alcohol used as an emollient and thickener in skincare products. It helps improve the texture and feel of the product. It is generally well-tolerated and non-irritating.
Benefits
Improves product texture and provides emollient properties.
Sodium Lauroyl LactylateNeutral
Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate is a mild surfactant and emulsifier used to improve the texture and stability of skincare products. It is derived from natural sources and is considered safe for use in cosmetics. It helps enhance the spreadability of the product.
Benefits
Improves product texture and spreadability.
Isopropyl MyristateNeutral
Isopropyl Myristate is an emollient used to enhance the texture and absorption of skincare products. It helps improve the spreadability and feel of the product. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Enhances product texture and absorption.
Caprylyl GlycolNeutral
Caprylyl Glycol is a skin-conditioning agent and preservative used to improve the texture and stability of cosmetic products. It is known for its moisturizing properties and ability to enhance product efficacy. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Benefits
Improves product texture and provides moisturizing benefits.
Xanthan GumNeutral
Xanthan Gum is a natural thickening agent used to stabilize and improve the texture of cosmetic formulations. It helps create a smooth and consistent product. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Benefits
Stabilizes product and improves texture.
EthylhexylglycerinNeutral
Ethylhexylglycerin is a preservative and skin-conditioning agent used to enhance the efficacy of cosmetic formulations. It is known for its antimicrobial properties and ability to improve product stability. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Benefits
Enhances product stability and provides antimicrobial benefits.
DimethiconeBad
Occlusive silicone film-former — flagged under clean-beauty doctrine.
Risks
May cause build-up on the skin if not properly cleansed.
Benefits
Improves product texture and provides a protective barrier.
Behentrimonium MethosulfateBad
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
Benefits
Provides gentle conditioning and improves product feel.
PhenoxyethanolBad
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
Risks
May cause irritation in sensitive individuals if used in high concentrations.
Benefits
Prevents microbial growth and ensures product safety.
Disodium EDTABad
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
Benefits
Improves product stability and efficacy.
Alcohol Denat.Very Bad
Denatured alcohol is used as a solvent and to enhance the penetration of other ingredients. However, it can be drying and irritating to the skin, especially in high concentrations. It is often criticized for its potential to disrupt the skin barrier.
Risks
Can cause dryness and irritation, potentially leading to barrier disruption.
Benefits
Improves product penetration and acts as a solvent.
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