Few skincare ingredients have been researched as extensively — or misunderstood as often — as Vitamin C.
When formulated correctly, it’s one of the most reliable topical antioxidants available for supporting skin brightness, resilience, and long-term skin quality. When it isn’t, it oxidises quickly, irritates the skin, or delivers little benefit at all.
So rather than hype, let’s talk function.
What Vitamin C Actually Does
In its biologically active form — L-ascorbic acid — Vitamin C functions as a multi-role antioxidant within the skin.
When delivered at an effective concentration and appropriate pH, it can:
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Neutralise reactive oxygen species generated by UV exposure and environmental pollution
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Support collagen synthesis within the dermis
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Interfere with excess pigment formation, helping improve the appearance of uneven tone
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Help protect surface lipids from oxidative damage
These benefits depend entirely on formulation — not just the ingredient itself.
For Vitamin C to remain effective, it must be:
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present at a sufficient concentration (typically 10–20%)
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stabilised in an acidic environment (approximately pH 3–3.5)
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paired with supportive ingredients that improve tolerance and stability
Solstice was designed with these parameters in mind.
Formulation Philosophy
Solstice is a water-free Vitamin C serum, chosen to maximise stability and potency while minimising unnecessary complexity.
Every ingredient plays a defined role — either supporting antioxidant performance, improving skin tolerance, or enhancing wearability within a daily routine.
Ingredient Breakdown & Functional Role
Ascorbic Acid (10%)
L-ascorbic acid is the most potent and well-studied form of Vitamin C. At 10%, it sits within the effective range for antioxidant activity, collagen support, and brightening benefits — while remaining more tolerable than higher concentrations for regular use.
Functionally, it:
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neutralises free radicals
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supports collagen production
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helps improve the appearance of pigmentation and uneven tone
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enhances overall skin brightness over time
Glycerin & Propylene Glycol
Humectants that attract water into the upper layers of the skin, supporting hydration and improving skin tolerance to acidic actives. They also help distribute Vitamin C evenly across the skin surface.
Isododecane
A lightweight emollient that improves slip and wearability without occlusion. It contributes to Solstice’s fast-absorbing, non-greasy feel and helps the serum layer well under moisturiser and SPF.
Cyclopentasiloxane & Dimethicone
Silicone-based skin conditioners that:
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improve glide and sensory feel
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help reduce moisture loss
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buffer potential irritation from low-pH actives
These ingredients do not clog pores and can improve tolerance to active formulations.
Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E)
A complementary antioxidant that works synergistically with Vitamin C. Vitamin E helps stabilise the formula and provides additional antioxidant support at the skin surface.
Sweet Orange Peel Oil
Used sparingly for its natural aroma and contribution to the sensory experience of the formula.
Polysilicone-11
A texture-enhancing polymer that provides a soft-focus finish, improves spreadability, and contributes to a smooth, lightweight skin feel.
Why Solstice Works
Solstice is designed to deliver potent antioxidant support in a formulation that remains stable, wearable, and suitable for consistent use.
With regular application, it can help:
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improve overall skin brightness
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support collagen production over time
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reduce the appearance of uneven tone
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protect against daily environmental stressors
Consistency — not intensity — is where Vitamin C delivers its best results.
How to Use
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Apply a few drops to clean, dry skin in the morning
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Follow with moisturiser and SPF
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Introduce gradually if new to Vitamin C (every second day initially)
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Store away from heat and light to preserve potency
If skin feels sensitive, follow immediately with moisturiser to buffer the active.
Who Solstice Is Best Suited For
Solstice is well suited to:
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skin experiencing dullness or uneven tone
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pigmentation concerns related to sun exposure
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early signs of environmental skin stress
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routines focused on antioxidant protection and brightness
In Summary
Vitamin C is not a quick fix — it’s a cumulative, evidence-based active that supports skin resilience and brightness over time.
Solstice delivers L-ascorbic acid in a stabilised, considered formulation designed for daily use and long-term benefit.