Pixi by Petra Vitamin-C Serum - 1.01 fl oz: Paraben-Free, Brightening, For Normal Skin, Face Application
Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This serum contains a variety of beneficial ingredients such as ascorbic acid, glycerin, and aloe vera, which are known for their antioxidant and hydrating properties. The presence of natural extracts like grapefruit and lemon peel further enhances its skin-brightening effects. However, the inclusion of sodium hydroxide, a potential skin irritant, and the presence of some synthetic stabilizers and preservatives slightly reduce its overall ingredient safety score.
Key ingredients 42
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf JuiceVery Good
Aloe Vera is renowned for its soothing and hydrating properties. It helps in calming irritated skin and providing moisture.
Risks
Generally safe, but may cause allergic reactions in rare cases.
Benefits
It soothes and hydrates the skin, reducing redness and irritation.
Ferulic AcidVery Good
Ferulic Acid is a powerful antioxidant that enhances the stability and efficacy of other antioxidants like Vitamin C. It helps in protecting the skin from environmental damage.
Risks
Generally safe, but may cause irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
It boosts the effectiveness of other antioxidants and provides environmental protection.
TocopherolVery Good
Tocopherol, or Vitamin E, is a potent antioxidant that helps in protecting the skin from free radical damage. It also provides moisturizing benefits.
Risks
Generally safe, but high concentrations may cause irritation.
Benefits
It protects the skin from oxidative stress and enhances moisture retention.
PanthenolVery Good
Panthenol, or Provitamin B5, is known for its moisturizing and soothing properties. It helps in improving skin hydration and reducing irritation.
Risks
Generally safe, but may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.
Benefits
It enhances skin moisture levels and soothes irritation.
RetinolVery Good
Retinol is a form of Vitamin A that is highly effective in reducing signs of aging. It helps in improving skin texture and tone.
Risks
May cause irritation, redness, or peeling, especially in sensitive skin.
Benefits
It boosts collagen production and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Ascorbic AcidGood
Ascorbic Acid, also known as Vitamin C, is a potent antioxidant that helps in brightening the skin and reducing signs of aging. It is highly valued for its ability to improve skin texture and tone.
Risks
In rare cases, it may cause irritation or redness, especially in sensitive skin.
Benefits
It boosts collagen production and provides protection against environmental damage.
GlycerinGood
Glycerin is a well-known humectant that attracts moisture to the skin. It helps in maintaining skin hydration and improving skin barrier function.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with glycerin in cosmetics.
Benefits
It enhances skin moisture levels and smoothness.
Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Fruit WaterGood
Grapefruit Fruit Water is used for its refreshing and astringent properties. It provides a natural source of antioxidants and vitamins.
Risks
May cause irritation in sensitive skin due to its acidic nature.
Benefits
It offers antioxidant benefits and helps in revitalizing the skin.
Sodium HyaluronateGood
Sodium Hyaluronate is a form of hyaluronic acid that provides intense hydration. It helps in plumping the skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with its use.
Benefits
It enhances skin moisture retention and elasticity.
Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel ExtractGood
Lemon Peel Extract is used for its brightening and astringent properties. It contains natural antioxidants and vitamin C.
Risks
May cause photosensitivity or irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
It helps in brightening the skin and providing antioxidant protection.
Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin) Orange Fruit ExtractGood
Mandarin Orange Fruit Extract is valued for its antioxidant and skin-brightening properties. It provides a natural source of vitamins and nutrients.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
It offers antioxidant benefits and helps in improving skin radiance.
Microcitrus Australis Fruit ExtractGood
Microcitrus Australis Fruit Extract is used for its antioxidant and skin-brightening properties. It provides a natural source of vitamins and nutrients.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
It offers antioxidant benefits and helps in improving skin radiance.
Microcitrus Australasica Fruit ExtractGood
Microcitrus Australasica Fruit Extract is valued for its antioxidant and skin-brightening properties. It provides a natural source of vitamins and nutrients.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
It offers antioxidant benefits and helps in improving skin radiance.
Beta-CaroteneGood
Beta-Carotene is a precursor to Vitamin A and provides antioxidant benefits. It helps in protecting the skin from free radical damage.
Risks
Generally safe, but high concentrations may cause skin discoloration.
Benefits
It provides antioxidant protection and supports skin health.
Citrus Glauca Fruit ExtractGood
Citrus Glauca Fruit Extract is used for its antioxidant and skin-brightening properties. It provides a natural source of vitamins and nutrients.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
It offers antioxidant benefits and helps in improving skin radiance.
Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root ExtractGood
Carrot Root Extract is rich in beta-carotene and antioxidants. It helps in protecting the skin from environmental damage and improving skin tone.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
It provides antioxidant protection and supports skin health.
Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel ExtractGood
Orange Peel Extract is used for its brightening and antioxidant properties. It provides a natural source of vitamins and nutrients.
Risks
May cause photosensitivity or irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
It helps in brightening the skin and providing antioxidant protection.
Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Fruit ExtractGood
Grapefruit Fruit Extract is valued for its antioxidant and astringent properties. It provides a natural source of vitamins and nutrients.
Risks
May cause irritation in sensitive skin due to its acidic nature.
Benefits
It offers antioxidant benefits and helps in revitalizing the skin.
Citrus Junos Peel ExtractGood
Citrus Junos Peel Extract is used for its antioxidant and skin-brightening properties. It provides a natural source of vitamins and nutrients.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
It offers antioxidant benefits and helps in improving skin radiance.
Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Flower/Leaf/Stem ExtractGood
Tea Tree Extract is known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps in reducing acne and soothing irritated skin.
Risks
May cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive skin.
Benefits
It helps in reducing acne and soothing irritated skin.
Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment FiltrateGood
This ferment filtrate is used for its antimicrobial properties. It helps in preserving the product and providing skin benefits.
Risks
Generally safe, but may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.
Benefits
It provides natural preservation and skin conditioning benefits.
Punica Granatum ExtractGood
Pomegranate Extract is rich in antioxidants and helps in protecting the skin from environmental damage. It also provides anti-inflammatory benefits.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
It offers antioxidant protection and helps in soothing the skin.
PhospholipidsGood
Phospholipids are used for their moisturizing and skin-conditioning properties. They help in enhancing the delivery of active ingredients.
Risks
Generally safe, but may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.
Benefits
They improve skin hydration and enhance the efficacy of active ingredients.
Glycine Soja (Soybean) OilGood
Soybean Oil is rich in fatty acids and antioxidants. It helps in moisturizing and nourishing the skin.
Risks
May cause allergic reactions in individuals with soy allergies.
Benefits
It provides hydration and antioxidant protection to the skin.
Caprylic/Capric TriglycerideGood
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride is used as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent. It helps in improving the texture and feel of the product.
Risks
Generally safe, but may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.
Benefits
It enhances skin hydration and provides a smooth, non-greasy feel.
WaterNeutral
Water is a common solvent used in cosmetics to dissolve other ingredients. It helps in the application and absorption of the product. It does not have any direct benefits or risks.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with water in cosmetics.
Benefits
Water helps in the even distribution of other active ingredients.
EthoxydiglycolNeutral
Ethoxydiglycol is a solvent that helps in the even distribution of other ingredients. It enhances the penetration of active ingredients into the skin. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with its use in cosmetics.
Benefits
It improves the efficacy of active ingredients by enhancing their absorption.
PropanediolNeutral
Propanediol is a glycol that acts as a solvent and humectant in cosmetics. It helps in improving the texture and feel of the product. It is generally recognized as safe for use in skincare.
Risks
It may cause mild irritation in very sensitive skin types.
Benefits
It provides hydration and improves the spreadability of the product.
Sodium HydroxideNeutral
Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.
Risks
Can cause skin irritation and dryness if not properly formulated.
Benefits
Helps in maintaining the stability and efficacy of the product by balancing pH.
CaffeineNeutral
Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.
Risks
May cause irritation in sensitive skin if used in high concentrations.
Benefits
It reduces puffiness and provides antioxidant protection.
Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) ExtractNeutral
Peppermint Extract is used for its cooling and refreshing properties. It provides a natural fragrance and can help in soothing the skin.
Risks
May cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive skin.
Benefits
It provides a cooling sensation and can help in soothing the skin.
Xanthan GumNeutral
Xanthan Gum is used as a thickening agent in cosmetics. It helps in stabilizing and improving the texture of the product.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with its use in cosmetics.
Benefits
It improves the texture and stability of the product.
Hydroxypropyl CyclodextrinNeutral
Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin is used as a stabilizer and solubilizer in cosmetics. It helps in improving the delivery of active ingredients.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with its use in cosmetics.
Benefits
It enhances the stability and efficacy of active ingredients.
Polysorbate 20Neutral
Polysorbate 20 is an emulsifier that helps in blending oil and water-based ingredients. It is commonly used in cosmetics for its stabilizing properties.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
It improves the texture and stability of the product.
Sodium Acrylates CopolymerNeutral
Sodium Acrylates Copolymer is used as a thickening and stabilizing agent in cosmetics. It helps in improving the texture and consistency of the product.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with its use in cosmetics.
Benefits
It improves the texture and stability of the product.
Sodium SorbateNeutral
Sodium Sorbate is a preservative used to prevent microbial growth in cosmetics. It is considered safe in low concentrations.
Risks
May cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive skin.
Benefits
It helps in preserving the product and preventing contamination.
Citric AcidNeutral
Citric Acid is used to adjust the pH of cosmetic formulations. It also provides mild exfoliating properties.
Risks
May cause irritation in sensitive skin if used in high concentrations.
Benefits
It helps in maintaining the stability and efficacy of the product by balancing pH.
EthylhexylglycerinNeutral
Ethylhexylglycerin is used as a preservative and skin-conditioning agent in cosmetics. It helps in enhancing the efficacy of other preservatives.
Risks
May cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive skin.
Benefits
It provides antimicrobial benefits and enhances skin conditioning.
LecithinBad
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
Risks
Generally safe, but may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.
Benefits
It enhances skin hydration and improves product texture.
PhenoxyethanolBad
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
Risks
May cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive skin.
Benefits
It helps in preserving the product and preventing contamination.
Sodium BenzoateBad
Synthetic preservative that can form benzene in the presence of vitamin C.
Risks
May cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive skin.
Benefits
It helps in preserving the product and preventing contamination.
Potassium SorbateBad
Synthetic preservative — flagged in daily-use products.
Risks
May cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive skin.
Benefits
It helps in preserving the product and preventing contamination.
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