Pixi by Petra Vitamin-C Serum - 1.01 fl oz: Paraben-Free, Brightening, For Normal Skin, Face Application

Common questions

Is Pixi by Petra Vitamin-C Serum - 1.01 fl oz: Paraben-Free, Brightening, For Normal Skin, Face Application healthy?

Pixi by Petra Vitamin-C Serum - 1.01 fl oz: Paraben-Free, Brightening, For Normal Skin, Face Application scores 82/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. 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.

Which ingredients drive Pixi by Petra Vitamin-C Serum - 1.01 fl oz: Paraben-Free, Brightening, For Normal Skin, Face Application's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Ascorbic Acid, Glycerin, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Fruit Water count in its favor; Lecithin, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate are flagged as ingredients of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Pixi by Petra Vitamin-C Serum - 1.01 fl oz: Paraben-Free, Brightening, For Normal Skin, Face Application

Pixi
82 Good

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

1.01 fl oz
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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 25
Harmful ingredients 4
Category Serum
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 Juice
Very 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.

See more about Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice →
Ferulic Acid
Very 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.

See more about Ferulic Acid →
Tocopherol
Very 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.

See more about Tocopherol →
Panthenol
Very 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.

See more about Panthenol →
Retinol
Very 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.

See more about Retinol →
Ascorbic Acid
Good

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.

See more about Ascorbic Acid →
Glycerin
Good

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.

See more about Glycerin →
Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Fruit Water
Good

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 Hyaluronate
Good

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.

See more about Sodium Hyaluronate →
Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Extract
Good

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 Extract
Good

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 Extract
Good

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 Extract
Good

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-Carotene
Good

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.

See more about Beta-Carotene →
Citrus Glauca Fruit Extract
Good

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 Extract
Good

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 Extract
Good

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 Extract
Good

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 Extract
Good

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 Extract
Good

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 Filtrate
Good

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.

See more about Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate →
Punica Granatum Extract
Good

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.

Phospholipids
Good

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.

See more about Phospholipids →
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil
Good

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.

See more about Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil →
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Good

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.

See more about Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride →
Water
Neutral

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.

See more about Water →
Ethoxydiglycol
Neutral

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.

See more about Ethoxydiglycol →
Propanediol
Neutral

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.

See more about Propanediol →
Sodium Hydroxide
Neutral

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.

See more about Sodium Hydroxide →
Caffeine
Neutral

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.

See more about Caffeine →
Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Extract
Neutral

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 Gum
Neutral

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.

See more about Xanthan Gum →
Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin
Neutral

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.

See more about Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin →
Polysorbate 20
Neutral

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.

See more about Polysorbate 20 →
Sodium Acrylates Copolymer
Neutral

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.

See more about Sodium Acrylates Copolymer →
Sodium Sorbate
Neutral

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 Acid
Neutral

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.

See more about Citric Acid →
Ethylhexylglycerin
Neutral

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.

See more about Ethylhexylglycerin →
Lecithin
Bad

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.

See more about Lecithin →
Phenoxyethanol
Bad

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.

See more about Phenoxyethanol →
Sodium Benzoate
Bad

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.

See more about Sodium Benzoate →
Potassium Sorbate
Bad

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.

See more about Potassium Sorbate →

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