Pure vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is one of the most researched and dermatologically recommended ingredients in skincare. It brightens the complexion, supports collagen synthesis, neutralizes free radicals, and improves the skin's resistance to signs of aging.
Despite its proven efficacy, vitamin C has always had one challenge – instability. Traditional vitamin C serums begin to oxidize as early as the moment of formulation, meaning that by the time they reach the consumer, their potency may be reduced.
Oxidation reduces the formula's effectiveness, changes the product's color and smell, and limits its antioxidant action. The result is a serum that becomes progressively weaker over time.
NERDS. approached this as a formulation challenge. The result is NERDS 15% Vitamin C + 2% Glutathione Fresh Active Serum, an innovative serum that uses fresh activation technology to keep vitamin C stable until the moment of use.
In most vitamin C serums, oxidation begins during storage. Fresh Active technology allows vitamin C to be activated only when you start using it.
Fresh Activation Technology: Stability at the Right Moment
What makes this serum special is its two-phase fresh activation system. Instead of dissolving l-ascorbic acid in the base during production, the active powder remains isolated in a separate internal chamber.
Pharmaceutical grade 15% l-ascorbic acid remains protected from light, oxygen, and moisture until the user activates the product.
Activation is simple:
- Press the pump before first use
- The powder is released into the serum base
- Shake the bottle
- The formula is freshly activated
This avoids oxidation during storage and transport. The biological clock of vitamin C begins only when the user activates it.
Three Antioxidants. One Synergy.
The formula combines three powerful antioxidants:
- 15% L-ascorbic acid
- 2% glutathione
- 1% hydroxyacetophenone
Together, they create a multi-layered antioxidant system that protects the skin and stabilizes the formulation itself.
L-ascorbic acid – the gold standard of vitamin C
L-ascorbic acid is considered the most biologically active form of vitamin C. At a concentration of 15%, it is supported by dermatological research for:
- stimulating collagen synthesis
- reducing hyperpigmentation by inhibiting tyrosinase
- neutralizing free radicals
- improving skin firmness and radiance
Glutathione – an additional layer of antioxidant protection
Glutathione is often called the "master antioxidant" in cell biology. In this formula, it acts synergistically with vitamin C.
Its key functions include:
- regenerating oxidized vitamin C
- neutralizing free radicals
- supporting even skin tone through its effect on melanogenesis
The combination of vitamin C and glutathione is often used in formulations that aim for skin brightening and strong antioxidant protection.
Hydroxyacetophenone – stabilizing antioxidant booster
Hydroxyacetophenone acts as a stabilizing antioxidant booster within the formula. It helps protect the serum from oxidative stress after activation and supports the stability of vitamin C in solution.
Together, these three ingredients create a powerful antioxidant architecture that provides protective, regenerative, and stabilizing effects.
Water-like texture
High concentrations of pure l-ascorbic acid require an aqueous, low-viscosity environment to remain bioavailable.
Therefore, the texture of this serum is:
- ultra-light
- fast-absorbing
- non-sticky
- without an oily film
The serum is applied after cleansing, on dry skin, before other serums or creams. During the daytime routine, it is recommended to finish the skincare with SPF protection.
Who is this serum for?
The serum is suitable for most skin types, except for very sensitive skin. Due to the high concentration of pure l-ascorbic acid, it is recommended to perform a patch test on a small area of skin before regular use.
After activation, it is necessary to:
- let the formula rest for at least 6 hours before the first use
- store the product in a dark, cool place, ideally in the refrigerator
Regular use can help improve skin radiance, even skin tone, and skin's resistance to oxidative stress.
In the world of vitamin C, innovation is no longer just about concentration, but about how the active ingredient is preserved and delivered to the skin.
NERDS 15% Vitamin C + 2% Glutathione Fresh Active Serum represents an innovative approach to vitamin C in skincare. Instead of increasing concentration, the focus is on preserving the stability and potency of the active ingredient.
With the Fresh Active system, vitamin C remains protected until you activate it – meaning you use it in its freshest and most potent form.
Frequently asked questions about vitamin C serum
When should I use vitamin C serum?
Vitamin C serum is most commonly used in the morning, after cleansing the skin, and before moisturizer and SPF.
Can vitamin C be used every day?
Yes, vitamin C can be used daily, but for sensitive skin, gradual introduction into the routine is recommended.
Why do vitamin C serums oxidize?
Vitamin C in the form of l-ascorbic acid is very sensitive to light, air, and temperature, which is why it can quickly lose effectiveness if not properly formulated.
How to recognize an oxidized vitamin C serum?
An oxidized serum often changes color to dark yellow or brown, and may also change its smell and lose effectiveness.
What can I combine vitamin C serum with?
Vitamin C combines well with hydrating ingredients, antioxidants, and SPF, which further protects the skin from external influences.
