itk Brightening Vitamin Serum with Vitamin C Review

itk Brightening Vitamin Serum with Vitamin C
5.9
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
1.8 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
3.5Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants
Review

Does itk Brightening Vitamin Serum with Vitamin C Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what itk Brightening Vitamin Serum with Vitamin C has to offer:
 
  • Strong humectant moisturizing. This lightweight, humectant-rich product, ideal for oily skin, has a moisturizing rating of 5.9 out of 10.
  • Modest anti-wrinkle efficacy: itk Brightening Vitamin Serum with Vitamin C has an anti-wrinkle rating of 3.5 out of 10 so you may expect some, although limited, effect on wrinkles.
  • Antioxidant protection.

Key Benefits of itk Brightening Vitamin Serum with Vitamin C

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using itk Brightening Vitamin Serum with Vitamin C:
 

Lightweight Humectant Moisturizer Ideal for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, itk Brightening Vitamin Serum with Vitamin C is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 5.9 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 1.8 out of 10 and a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Glycerin (est. ≈6.0%) and Propanediol (est. ≈2.0%).

This humectant-rich product, when used alone as a moisturizer, is ideal for oily skin, offering significant hydration in a lightweight, fast-absorbing formula with a minimal amount of occlusive ingredients.

It’s also a great choice for people with normal skin who prefer lightweight moisturizers.

A Humectant Boost for Any Skincare Routine

But it’s not limited to oily skin - such a humectant boost will also positively contribute to the moisturizing efficacy of any skincare routine when used as a step before applying the main moisturizer. This type of formulation is typically used in serums, where a light, fast-absorbing texture is key.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the moisturizing rating calculation.

Modest Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, itk Brightening Vitamin Serum with Vitamin C has a modest level of anti-wrinkle efficacy, rated 3.5 out of 10.

It contains 2 active ingredients with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy:

  • Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate (est. ≈1.3%),
     the only derivative of ascorbic acid with solid evidence of anti-wrinkle efficacy. A single clinical study involving 23 participants (Mariko et al.) demonstrated that a cream with 1% ATIP reduced the average depth of periorbital wrinkles by 6% after 8 weeks of use, compared to a vehicle (the same formulation without ATIP).
  • Niacinamide (est. ≈1.0%),
     one of the most effective and well-researched anti-wrinkle ingredients. A clinical study involving 30 participants (Kawada et al.) confirmed that a cream with 4% niacinamide reduced the average depth of wrinkles around the eyes by 9% after 8 weeks of use, compared to a vehicle (the same formulation without niacinamide).
Among others, itk Brightening Vitamin Serum with Vitamin C also contains some ingredients marketed often as effective in reducing wrinkles, specifically Ascorbyl Glucoside, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, and Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of these ingredients provide insufficient evidence of efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards. Therefore, these ingredients do not contribute to the anti-wrinkle rating.
 
Moisturizers, when used regularly, are proven to prevent wrinkle formation and even reduce existing wrinkles. Therefore, this product, like any other moisturizer, can deliver some anti-wrinkle effects through its moisturizing action.
 

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the anti-wrinkle rating calculation.

Rich in Skin-Protecting Antioxidants

We estimate that itk Brightening Vitamin Serum with Vitamin C is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate (est. ≈1.3%), Niacinamide (est. ≈1.0%), Ascorbyl Glucoside (est. ≈0.3%), and others.

A key benefit of antioxidants is their ability to reduce oxidative stress caused by free radicals and therefore prevent accelerated skin aging. Studies also show that antioxidants can protect against environmental damage such as UV radiation and pollution, and help reduce inflammation and skin redness.

Please note that this is not a complete list of benefits. We are in the process of enhancing our AI model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Pros & Cons of itk Brightening Vitamin Serum with Vitamin C

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of itk Brightening Vitamin Serum with Vitamin C to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

Pros:

  • When used alone: Provides humectant-rich moisturizing ideal for oily skin
  • As part of a routine: A humectant moisturizing boost, beneficial for any skin type
  • Lightweight texture
  • Offers modest anti-wrinkle efficacy
  • Rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress associated with accelerated skin aging and defend against environmental damage

Cons: 

  • We couldn't find any

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
75
6
4
3
2
1.5
1.3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Coco-Caprylate
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
Propanediol
Function:
Origin:
Silica
Function:
Origin:
Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate
Function:
Origin:
Niacinamide
Function:
Origin:
Ascorbyl Glucoside
Function:
Origin:
Biosaccharide Gum-1
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Aminomethyl Propanol
Function:
Origin:
C14-22 Alcohols
Function:
Origin:
C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside
Function:
Origin:
Panthenol
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Plukenetia Volubilis Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Allantoin
Function:
Origin:
Disodium Phosphate
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Lactate
Function:
Origin:
Carbomer
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Calcium Dihydrogen Phosphate
Function:
Origin:
Polysorbate 20
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1
Function:
Origin:
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
11.1
6
2
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
3.6
3.0
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.9
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 11.1 10
10.0
6
2
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 3.6 20
1.8
3.0
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
5.9
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
6
2
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 11.1 10
10
All humectants
11.1
6
2
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 3.6 20
1.8
All occlusives
3.6
3.0
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
2 /10 1 1.3 2
6 /10 4 1 1.5
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
3.5
Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate
2
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
2 /10
when present at, %
1
in this formula, est. %
1.3
Niacinamide
1.5
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
1
Ascorbyl Glucoside
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
3.5
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
1.3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 3.5 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
3.5
Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate
1.3
Niacinamide
1
Ascorbyl Glucoside
0.3
Plukenetia Volubilis Seed Oil
0.3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 1.9 5 No
All soothing
1.9
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %75
Function
Origin
WaterThe most used ingredient in skincare. Its concentration defines the product texture: rich creams may have about 50% of water while a light jelly about 90%. Water doesn’t moisturize the skin by itself and is used in skincare as a solvent for other ingredients.
Glycerin
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Glycerin

The most popular moisturizing ingredient in the world. It is a powerful humectant – cheap yet very effective.

Coco-Caprylate
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Coco-CaprylateA naturally-derived or synthetically produced oil with a very light feel. An alternative to silicones, this ingredient spreads quickly and doesn't leave a residue on skin.
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Caprylic/Capric TriglycerideA natural occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient, it is a blend of glycerin and two fatty acids, caprylic and capric acid. It creates an oil-based protective layer on the skin, thereby preventing water loss.
Propanediol
Est. %2
Function
Origin
PropanediolAn excellent solvent capable of mixing water with normally water-insoluble ingredients. It also functions as a humectant due to its water-loving alcohol groups. Propanediol can control the viscosity of a product by reducing its thickness.
Silica
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
SilicaA widely used cosmetic ingredient with the same chemical composition as the sand found on beaches. A common function of silica is its ability to control viscosity. In certain chemical forms, it can effectively thicken cream-style products.
Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate

Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate (ATIP) is an oil-soluble derivative of ascorbic acid, or vitamin C. It is more stable than ascorbic acid, with studies supporting its collagen-boosting and anti-pigment effects.

Niacinamide
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Niacinamide

Also known as vitamin B3, this ingredient is a true superstar with confirmed moisturizing, anti-acne, hyperpigmentation, and antioxidant benefits. Two studies confirm its significant anti-wrinkle efficacy.

Ascorbyl Glucoside
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ascorbyl GlucosideA derivative of vitamin C. It is more stable and less irritating than ascorbic acid. There are unfortunately no clinical studies on ascorbyl glucoside’s anti-pigment or anti-acne efficacy alone.
Biosaccharide Gum-1
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Biosaccharide Gum-1A polysaccharide with humectant moisturizing and soothing properties.
Phenoxyethanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PhenoxyethanolThe most frequently used preservative in skincare. It is a clear, oil-like liquid synthetic substance that protects products from harmful bacteria and yeast, whilst still leaving skin microflora unharmed. It is confirmed by research to be harmless.
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6A polymeric ingredient that works best in water-based formulas to create gel textures. It helps to stabilize emulsions and control viscosity.
Butylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Butylene Glycol

A clear, colorless liquid humectant that draws moisture to the skin. The humectancy of butylene glycol, owed to its two hydroxyl groups, is quite considerable, although not as powerful as glycerin, which contains three hydroxyl groups.

Aminomethyl Propanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Aminomethyl PropanolA synthetic ingredient that helps to adjust the pH of a product to make it less acidic.
C14-22 Alcohols
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
C14-22 AlcoholsA naturally-derived emulsion stabilizer that has a light feel. It is not a drying alcohol, in fact the emulsions it helps create can make the skin feel soft and cushioned.
C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside
Panthenol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PanthenolA popular soothing and moisturizing derivative of vitamin B5. Panthenol is particularly beneficial for dry, flaking, burned, or damaged skin. It is used to alleviate the symptoms of a rash, dermatitis, eczema, chapped lips, and sunburn.
Ethylhexylglycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
EthylhexylglycerinA preservative booster derived from glycerin. It is commonly paired with other preservatives to improve their efficacy. Ethylhexylglycerin is also a humectant due to its chemical base of glycerin.
Disodium EDTA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Disodium EDTAA synthetic chelator that helps to maintain the look and smell of a product by 'locking up' troublesome metal ions.
Plukenetia Volubilis Seed Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Plukenetia Volubilis Seed OilAn occlusive moisturizing fatty oil derived from the seeds of a South American tree known as Inca nut. It is rich in emollient alpha-linolenic acid, linoleic acid, vitamin E, and various phenolic compounds.
Allantoin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
AllantoinA fluffy, white powder that acts as a humectant due to its water-loving chemistry and as an exfoliant that helps to remove dead skin cells. It has also been shown to be very soothing to irritated and inflamed skin.
Disodium Phosphate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Disodium PhosphateAn inorganic ingredient primarily used in skincare products as a pH adjuster.
Sodium Lactate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium LactateA sodium salt of lactic acid. Its main function is as a humectant but it can also serve as a pH adjuster. Additionally, sodium lactate can also be used as a chemical exfoliant due to its close chemical relation to lactic acid.
Carbomer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CarbomerA synthetic ingredient with the ability to gel water. When used in emulsions, such as lotions and creams, carbomer can also act as an emulsion stabilizer.
Sodium Hyaluronate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Hyaluronate

A sodium salt of famous hyaluronic acid. A potent humectant that hydrates the skin, supports collagen function, and fills out small wrinkles. Sodium hyaluronate also offers soothing and antioxidant properties.

Calcium Dihydrogen Phosphate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Calcium Dihydrogen Phosphate
Polysorbate 20
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polysorbate 20A viscous, amber-colored liquid that functions as a solubilizer to disperse small amounts of oil into a large water phase. Polysorbate 20 is frequently used to solubilize fragrance oils into water-based emulsions.
Tocopherol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopherol

Simply another name for vitamin E. Tocopherol is a fantastic ingredient and especially beneficial for dry and inflamed skin. It has occlusive moisturizing, emollient, antioxidant, and photoprotective properties.

Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1

A small peptide consisting of three amino acids with anti-wrinkle effects. Together with Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, it is a part of the popular anti-wrinkle complex called Matrixyl™ 3000.

Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7

A synthetic peptide that mimics the activity of immunoglobulin G and signals to the skin to stop the inflammation. It has been shown in studies to reduce wrinkles and enhance collagen content.