2% Glutathione Face Serum With Glutathione and Tranexamic Acid - 30 ml

What you need to know

This is a serum from Derma Co priced at ₹699.

Key ingredients

The product highlights 2% Glutathione and Tranexamic Acid. Glutathione is an antioxidant that plays a role in skin brightening by inhibiting melanin production; however, topical application's efficacy can be limited due to its large molecular size and instability. When glutathione goes wrong, it might not penetrate effectively, leading to minimal results despite its presence. Tranexamic Acid is another ingredient frequently used for reducing hyperpigmentation and improving skin tone. It works by interfering with the interaction between keratinocytes and melanocytes, which can help fade dark spots. The downside of tranexamic acid is that it can sometimes be irritating, especially in higher concentrations or when combined with other strong actives, leading to redness or dryness.

Who should use this

This serum might appeal to individuals with combination skin experiencing dullness, uneven skin tone, or mild hyperpigmentation. It could be suitable for those looking to address dark spots or generally brighten their complexion.

Who should skip this

Pregnant women should skip this product due to the lack of a full INCI list; only 100% mineral sunscreens are recommended for them. Individuals with sensitive skin should also avoid this until a complete ingredient list is available to check for potential irritants. Anyone currently using other strong actives like retinoids, AHAs, or BHAs should also skip this, as stacking multiple actives can lead to irritation and compromise the skin barrier.

How to use

Apply a few drops to clean, dry skin after cleansing and before moisturizing. Use once daily, preferably in the evening. Always follow up with a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 in the morning. Do not layer with other active ingredients like vitamin C, retinoids, or exfoliating acids.

What users say

With 28,574 reviews on Nykaa, users generally describe the texture as lightweight and suitable for combination skin. The existing review summary indicates a focus on skin care being a challenging task, but specific user outcomes or average scores are not provided.

Price context

At Rs699 for 30ml, this serum is positioned as an affordable option in the Indian market. While cheaper than many international brands, derma-co's overall inconsistent quality means the value is debatable. Alternatives at this price point might include other serums from Indian brands with clearer ingredient transparency, or smaller sizes of more reputable formulations.

Final take

While the ingredients sound promising for brightening, the absence of a full INCI list is a significant red flag. Given derma-co's hit or miss product quality, it's hard to recommend this serum with confidence. There are better, more transparent options available if you're serious about addressing hyperpigmentation.

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