What does it do?
Brightens and evens skin tone over time, and adds a layer of antioxidant protection against daily damage. Vitamin C is the most established active for tone and brightness and this is a straightforward, stable dose of it.
When do I use it?
Once a day, in the morning, after cleansing and before your moisturizer. Vitamin C pairs with sunscreen as both defend against daily oxidation, so morning is where it earns its place.
Why is the bottle dark glass?
Vitamin C breaks down in light and air. The cobalt glass slows that down and keeps the formula effective longer. Store it out of direct sun and keep the cap on.
Will it sting or irritate?
It can tingle slightly at first, which is normal for an active vitamin C serum. It's unscented and built to be tolerable for most skin. If you're new to vitamin C, start every other day and build up.
Why does it have a slight smell if it's unscented?
That's the vitamin C itself. Pure ascorbic acid has a faintly sour, sometimes metallic smell. There's no fragrance added, so you're smelling the active. It's normal and it fades on the skin. If the smell ever turns sharp or the serum darkens, that's a sign it's oxidized and time to replace it.
Where does it fit in my routine?
Cleanse, then serum, then moisturizer. The Volcanic Ash Face Cleanser and Hydrating Face Moisturizer are the other two steps. This is the active you add on top once the basics are in place.
Do I still need a moisturizer?
Yes. The serum treats tone and brightness; it doesn't replace daily hydration. It goes on first, then your moisturizer over it.
