Paula's Choice 25% Vitamin C + Glutathione Clinical Serum for Brightening & Dark Spots, Size: 1 FL Oz, None
Paula's ChoiceAnalysis updated October 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This serum contains a range of beneficial ingredients such as Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Glycerin, and Glutathione, which are known for their antioxidant and skin-brightening properties. The presence of Phenoxyethanol, a preservative that can cause irritation in some individuals, slightly impacts the overall safety profile. However, the product's formulation is largely composed of effective and safe ingredients, contributing to its high rating.
Key ingredients 20
Tetrahexyldecyl AscorbateVery Good
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate is a stable, oil-soluble form of Vitamin C. It penetrates the skin effectively and provides antioxidant benefits. It is known for its ability to brighten skin and reduce signs of aging.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient, though some individuals may experience mild irritation.
Benefits
It provides antioxidant protection and helps brighten the skin.
Ascorbyl GlucosideVery Good
Ascorbyl Glucoside is a stable form of Vitamin C combined with glucose. It provides antioxidant benefits and helps brighten the skin. It is effective in reducing signs of aging and improving skin tone.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though some individuals may experience mild irritation.
Benefits
It provides antioxidant protection and brightens the skin.
GlutathioneVery Good
Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the skin from oxidative stress. It is known for its skin-brightening and anti-aging properties. It is effective in reducing dark spots and improving skin tone.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though some individuals may experience mild irritation.
Benefits
It provides antioxidant protection and brightens the skin.
GlycerinGood
Glycerin is a humectant that attracts moisture to the skin. It helps maintain hydration and improves skin barrier function. It is widely used in skincare for its moisturizing properties.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though overuse can lead to a sticky feeling on the skin.
Benefits
It hydrates the skin and improves barrier function.
Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit ExtractGood
Apple fruit extract is rich in antioxidants and vitamins. It helps protect the skin from environmental damage and provides moisturizing benefits. It is often used for its anti-aging properties.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though some individuals may experience mild irritation.
Benefits
It provides antioxidant protection and moisturizes the skin.
ErgothioneineGood
Ergothioneine is an amino acid with antioxidant properties. It helps protect the skin from environmental damage and supports skin health. It is often used for its anti-aging benefits.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though some individuals may experience mild irritation.
Benefits
It provides antioxidant protection and supports skin health.
Vanilla Planifolia Fruit ExtractGood
Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract is used for its antioxidant and soothing properties. It helps protect the skin from environmental damage and provides a pleasant fragrance. It is often used for its calming effects on the skin.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though some individuals may experience mild irritation.
Benefits
It provides antioxidant protection and soothes the skin.
Sodium HyaluronateGood
Sodium Hyaluronate is a form of hyaluronic acid that provides intense hydration to the skin. It helps retain moisture and improve skin elasticity. It is widely used for its anti-aging and moisturizing benefits.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though some individuals may experience mild irritation.
Benefits
It hydrates the skin and improves elasticity.
Water/Aqua/EauNeutral
Water is a common solvent used in cosmetic formulations. It helps dissolve other ingredients and provides a base for the serum. It does not have any direct benefits or risks associated with its use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with water in cosmetics.
Benefits
Water acts as a solvent and carrier for other active ingredients.
C9-12 AlkaneNeutral
C9-12 Alkane is used as an emollient and solvent in cosmetic formulations. It helps improve the spreadability of the product. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
It acts as an emollient and improves product spreadability.
SilicaNeutral
Silica is used as a thickening agent and to improve the texture of cosmetic products. It helps absorb excess oil and provides a matte finish. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
Inhalation of silica dust can be harmful, but this is not a concern in topical applications.
Benefits
It improves product texture and provides a matte finish.
Hydrogenated LecithinNeutral
Hydrogenated Lecithin is used as an emulsifier and skin-conditioning agent. It helps improve the texture and stability of cosmetic formulations. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
It acts as an emulsifier and conditions the skin.
Polyglyceryl-6 PolyricinoleateNeutral
Polyglyceryl-6 Polyricinoleate is an emulsifier used to stabilize cosmetic formulations. It helps blend oil and water components effectively. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
It stabilizes formulations and improves texture.
Xanthan GumNeutral
Xanthan Gum is used as a thickening and stabilizing agent in cosmetics. It helps improve the texture and consistency of the product. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
It stabilizes formulations and improves texture.
Polyquaternium-51Neutral
Polyquaternium-51 is a film-forming agent that helps retain moisture in the skin. It improves the texture and feel of cosmetic products. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
It retains moisture and improves product texture.
TriacetinNeutral
Triacetin is used as a solvent and plasticizer in cosmetics. It helps improve the texture and spreadability of the product. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
It improves product texture and spreadability.
DimethiconeBad
Occlusive silicone film-former — flagged under clean-beauty doctrine.
Risks
Some individuals may experience breakouts or irritation from silicones.
Benefits
It improves product texture and helps retain skin moisture.
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate CrosspolymerBad
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
It improves product texture and stability.
GlucoseBad
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
It hydrates the skin and improves moisture retention.
PhenoxyethanolBad
Phenoxyethanol is a preservative used to prevent microbial growth in cosmetics. It is effective in extending the shelf life of products. However, it can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some individuals.
Risks
It may cause skin irritation and allergic reactions.
Benefits
It acts as a preservative to prevent microbial growth.
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