Vitamin C Super Serum

What it is

A five-in-one serum from TruSkin that combines vitamin C with retinol, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and squalane. The vitamin C here is sodium ascorbyl phosphate — a stable derivative that suits reactive skin better than pure L-ascorbic acid.

What the ingredients are for

• Sodium ascorbyl phosphate — a vitamin C derivative used for the look of uneven tone and dark spots.
• Retinol — a low-strength retinoid that supports surface cell turnover and softens the look of fine lines.
• Niacinamide — supports the barrier and refines the look of texture and pores.
• Hyaluronic acid and squalane — humectant and emollient, so a retinol formula stays comfortable.
• Salicylic acid — a gentle exfoliant included at low strength.

How to use it

The brand suggests two to three times a week: two to three pumps on clean skin, moisturiser on top, and sunscreen every morning. Because it contains retinol, use it in the evening rather than morning and night.

Who it suits

Anyone who wants one serum instead of three, or whose skin stings with pure vitamin C. It is a practical, budget-friendly way to cover tone, texture and fine lines together.

Trade-offs to know

It contains retinol, so it is not for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding without medical advice, and it needs building up slowly. It also includes grapefruit peel oil for scent and salicylic acid, both of which can upset very reactive skin — patch test first.