VZK Vitamin C Energizing Face Serum Review

VZK Vitamin C Energizing Face Serum
3.8
/ 10
Moisturizing
6.2 Humectancy icon Humectancy
1.4 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Rich
in Antioxidants
Ingredients

VZK Vitamin C Energizing Face Serum Ingredients

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Full Ingredient List (INCI):

Water, C13-15 Alkane, Propylene Glycol, Isononyl Isononanoate, Triceteareth-4 Phosphate, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Squalane, Glycerin, Caprylyl Methicone, Pentylene Glycol, Beheneth-25, Phenoxyethanol, Tocopherol, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Seed Oil, Beta-Carotene (CI 40800), Xanthan Gum, Lactic Acid, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Disodium EDTA, Ethylhexylglycerin, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Limonene, Fragrance
Review

Does VZK Vitamin C Energizing Face Serum Work?

 
According to CreamScan's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what VZK Vitamin C Energizing Face Serum has to offer:
 
✅ Light moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 3.8 out of 10.
✅ Antioxidant protection

  

Key Benefits of VZK Vitamin C Energizing Face Serum

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using VZK Vitamin C Energizing Face Serum:
 

🔵 Lightweight Moisturizer Well-Suited for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, VZK Vitamin C Energizing Face Serum is lightly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 3.8 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 1.4 out of 10 and a high humectancy of 6.2 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Propylene Glycol (est. ≈4.0%).

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

It can also be a good option for people with normal skin who prefer lightweight moisturizers.

💧 A Humectant Enhancement for Any Skincare Routine

But it’s not limited to oily skin - such a humectant enhancement 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.

🍀 Rich in Skin-Protecting Antioxidants

We estimate that VZK Vitamin C Energizing Face Serum is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid (est. ≈1.5%), Tocopherol (est. ≈0.3%), Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract (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 model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Things to Be Aware Of: VZK Vitamin C Energizing Face Serum

 
CreamScan identified a few things to consider before adding VZK Vitamin C Energizing Face Serum to your skincare routine:
 

⚠️ If It’s an Exfoliator, It May Increase Skin Photosensitivity Due to Lactic Acid

This product contains lactic acid, a popular AHA known for its ability to gently exfoliate and brighten the skin. It works by removing dead skin cells, revealing new, more delicate skin that is more vulnerable to sun damage.

In smaller quantities, lactic acid is often used as a pH adjuster and may not significantly contribute to exfoliation. However, at higher concentrations, it functions as an effective exfoliant with benefits and risks similar to other AHAs. Products with AHAs, including lactic acid, may increase skin sensitivity, making it more prone to sunburn or irritation when exposed to UV rays.

If this product is designed for exfoliation, applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily is essential to protect your skin. Always check the label or the manufacturer’s website for specific usage instructions.

⚠️ Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

If one of your main reasons for choosing VZK Vitamin C Energizing Face Serum is its potential anti-aging effects, please note that, according to CreamScan analysis, it currently has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

It contains 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, an ingredient often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid provide insufficient evidence of its efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards.

While this does not categorically rule out the possibility that 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid may reduce wrinkles, its efficacy is not supported by convincing, vehicle-controlled, double-blind clinical studies - at least none that were available to the CreamScan team at the time of publication.

Therefore, this ingredient does not generate 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.

Pros & Cons of VZK Vitamin C Energizing Face Serum

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

🟩 Pros:

✅ When used alone: Provides humectant-rich moisturizing well-suited for oily skin
✅ As part of a routine: A humectant moisturizing enhancement, beneficial for any skin type
✅ Lightweight texture
✅ Rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress associated with accelerated skin aging and defend against environmental damage
 

⭕ Cons: 

⚠️ Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy
   

Summary: VZK Vitamin C Energizing Face Serum

 
Based on the ingredient list analysis, CreamScan AI suggests that VZK Vitamin C Energizing Face Serum
, when used alone, delivers lightweight, humectant-rich moisturizing that is well-suited for oily skin. As part of a moisturizing routine, it provides a humectant enhancement, beneficial for all skin types.
 
With its high antioxidant content, VZK Vitamin C Energizing Face Serum helps protect against free radical damage and offers multiple benefits for all skin types, including preventing premature aging, defending against environmental damage, and calming inflammation.
 
That said, there are some things about VZK Vitamin C Energizing Face Serum worth noting.
 
If one of your main reasons for considering VZK Vitamin C Energizing Face Serum is its potential anti-aging effects, please note that, according to CreamScan analysis, its anti-wrinkle efficacy is questionable. None of the ingredients in this product provide substantial evidence of their anti-wrinkle efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards.
 
📌 Fact check. At CreamScan, we are committed to accuracy and fairness. If you spot any errors or something that doesn’t seem right, please click here to let us know. We regularly update the ingredient lists and monitor the latest research on ingredient efficacy to ensure that our information remains as complete and precise as possible. The information provided here is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional advice. We do not guarantee the efficacy or safety of any product, as individual results may vary.

 

Ingredient Breakdown

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
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
C13-15 Alkane
Function:
Origin:
Propylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Isononyl Isononanoate
Function:
Origin:
Triceteareth-4 Phosphate
Function:
Origin:
3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Squalane
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Methicone
Function:
Origin:
Pentylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Beheneth-25
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Beta-Carotene (CI 40800)
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Lactic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil
Function:
Origin:
Limonene
Function:
Origin:
Fragrance
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
6.2
4
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
2.8
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
3.8
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 6.2 10
6.2
4
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 2.8 20
1.4
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
3.8
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
4
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 6.2 10
6.2
All humectants
6.2
4
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 2.8 20
1.4
All occlusives
2.8
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
n/a
- 1.5 -
Total
0
3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
1.5
Anti-wrinkle rating
0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 3 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
3
3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
1.5
Tocopherol
0.3
Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract
0.3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Beta-Carotene (CI 40800)
0.3
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
None
All soothing 0 5 No
All soothing
0
None
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.
C13-15 Alkane
Est. %6
Function
Origin
C13-15 Alkane
Propylene Glycol
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Propylene GlycolA clear, thick, odorless liquid of synthetic origin. Its main function is to stabilize cosmetic products exposed to varying temperatures. It is also a moderately strong humectant with similar properties to glycerin.
Isononyl Isononanoate
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Isononyl IsononanoateAn ester of a branched fatty acid with a branched fatty alcohol. It is an easily spreadable emollient that has a silky, dry, non-greasy feel on the skin.
Triceteareth-4 Phosphate
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Triceteareth-4 Phosphate
3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic AcidA derivative of vitamin C. Its stability in skincare formulations is better than ascorbic acid’s, although clinical studies are yet to indicate whether it has the same collagen-boosting benefits.
Squalane
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
SqualaneAn occlusive moisturizing and emollient compound that forms part of the skin’s sebum. The main source of squalane had always been shark liver. Now, however, it is manufactured synthetically or derived from plant oils, such as olive and peanut oil.
Glycerin
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Caprylyl Methicone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylyl MethiconeA liquid silicone with occlusive moisturizing properties. Being compatible with natural oils is a challenge for most silicones, but caprylyl methicone plays well with all types of oils.
Pentylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Pentylene Glycol

A naturally or synthetically derived preservative that exhibits effective antifungal and antibacterial traits. It also acts as a booster for more traditional preservatives. Pentylene glycol can also serve as a moisturizing humectant and solvent.

Beheneth-25
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Beheneth-25
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.
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.

Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root ExtractAn antioxidant extract derived from carrots. It is a rich source of the orange-colored beta-carotene (pro-vitamin A). Carrot root extract is often added to skincare products that are aimed at providing a better suntan.
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.

Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Seed Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Seed OilThis name can imply two different ingredients: a fatty emollient and occlusive carrot seed oil, or a fragrant and antimicrobial essential carrot seed oil.
Beta-Carotene (CI 40800)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Beta-Carotene (CI 40800)An orange-red plant pigment with powerful antioxidant activity.
Xanthan Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Xanthan GumA natural multi-functional ingredient that originates from fermented sugars. Xanthan gum acts as a viscosity-building agent to thicken skincare products. It is also an excellent stabilizer and works well to hold other ingredients together.
Lactic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lactic AcidThe most popular AHA in skincare and less irritating than glycolic acid. It can be naturally found in sour milk. It is a humectant moisturizing, pH stabilizing, and gently exfoliating ingredient, able to soften dry, cracked, and peeling skin.
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed OilA fatty oil expressed from sunflower seeds and one of the most commonly used oils in skincare. It has great emollient and occlusive moisturizing properties. Sunflower oil is one of the richest sources of vitamin E – an important skin antioxidant.
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.
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.
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycine Soja (Soybean) OilAn occlusive moisturizing oil expressed from soybeans. It does not leave an oily feeling on the skin due to its low content of saturated fatty acids. Glycine soja oil contains emollient fatty acids and a significant amount of antioxidants.
Limonene
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Limonene

One of the most used fragrances in skincare products. It is produced from the peels of citrus fruits and has a fresh, pleasant, citrusy smell. People who are sensitive to citrus should try to avoid it, or at least do a patch test before using it.

Fragrance
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
FragranceUnder trade secret law, manufacturers have the right not to disclose what exactly went into the fragrance and use the unspecific word Fragrance or Parfum instead. Many fragrances are highly allergenic.