Few ingredients have been studied — or misunderstood — as much as Vitamin C.
When formulated well, it’s one of the most reliable actives for supporting long-term skin health.
When it isn’t, it oxidises quickly, stings, or simply stops working.
So rather than hype, let’s talk function.
What Vitamin C Actually Does
In its purest form — L-ascorbic acid — Vitamin C acts as a powerful antioxidant.
It helps to:
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Neutralise reactive oxygen species created by UV exposure and pollution
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Support collagen synthesis within the dermis
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Regulate pigment activity to reduce uneven tone
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Reinforce barrier recovery by protecting lipids from oxidation
But it only does these things when it’s:
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Present in an effective concentration (around 10 – 20 %)
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Stabilised at a pH your skin can tolerate (roughly 3–3.5)
- Paired with complementary antioxidants and humectants
Let’s Talk Formulation
Every ingredient in Solstice has a job to do — and trust us, there are no slackers in this serum.
Ascorbic Acid (10% Vitamin C)
Let’s start with the star. L-ascorbic acid is the most potent, active form of vitamin C — but also notoriously unstable. That’s why many serums oxidise faster than avo on toast.
But not this one. Solstice uses smart formulation to keep things stable and effective.
What it does:
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Neutralises free radicals (sun, pollution, stress — the whole chaotic crew)
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Boosts collagen production for firmer, bouncier skin
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Fades dark spots and uneven tone
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Brightens like your skin’s had eight hours of sleep and a green juice
Glycerin & Propylene Glycol
These are your moisture magnets — humectants that draw water into the skin and help keep it there.
Bonus: They also help vitamin C penetrate deeper, meaning better results and faster glow.
Isododecane
This lightweight emollient creates a smooth, silky finish without clogging pores or feeling greasy.
Think of it as the primer for your skincare — locking in actives while giving that breathable second-skin feel.
Cyclopentasiloxane & Dimethicone
Yep, these are silicones — and no, they’re not the villains they’ve been made out to be. These silky agents:
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Provide that weightless, non-tacky glide
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Help reduce water loss
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Act as skin conditioners, keeping things smooth and comfy
They’re breathable, non-comedogenic, and actually help sensitive skin tolerate strong actives like vitamin C.
Tocopherol Acetate (Vitamin E)
Vitamin C’s ride-or-die. This antioxidant:
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Enhances the power and stability of vitamin C
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Helps calm inflammation
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Strengthens the skin barrier
The result? Brighter skin that’s less reactive and more resilient.
Citrus Sinensis (Sweet Orange Oil)
Here for the vibe and the benefits.
This essential oil gives Solstice its subtle citrus scent — no synthetic fragrance needed — and offers a gentle dose of antioxidant and antimicrobial action.
Polysilicone-11
A silicone-based texture enhancer that also works like a skin blurring filter IRL.
It creates a breathable barrier, smooths over fine lines and uneven texture, and helps the formula stay lightweight and stable.
So, Why Solstice?
✔️ Brightens: Say goodbye to dullness and hello to lit-from-within skin
✔️ Protects: Shields against daily environmental stress
✔️ Hydrates: Locks in moisture for that plump, glassy glow
✔️ Preps: Layers beautifully under makeup or other skincare
✔️ No Nasties: Free from parabens, sulphates, synthetic fragrance, and BS
How to Use Vitamin C Safely
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Apply a few drops to clean, dry skin in the morning, before moisturiser and SPF.
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Introduce slowly — every second day at first — to allow your skin to adapt.
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Store away from heat and light; oxidation degrades Vitamin C’s activity.
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If your barrier feels compromised, apply moisturiser immediately after to buffer the active.
Who’s It For?
✔️ All skin types
✔️ Especially beneficial for pigmentation, sun damage, or general dullness
✔️ Suitable during pregnancy and breastfeeding
✔️ Safe for sensitive skin (thanks to a barrier-supportive base)
In Summary
Vitamin C isn’t a miracle worker — it’s a biologically proven co-factor in skin repair and defence.
Solstice was formulated to deliver that science in a stable, tolerable form. Because luminous skin isn’t instant; it’s cumulative care, practiced consistently.