So how well does RoC Vitamin C Serum really perform? To answer this question, we’ll have to evaluate the key ingredients in this formula, as well as the research that supports (or doesn’t support) their use in skin care. The form of vitamin C that’s used in RoC Vitamin C Serum is called 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, a vitamin C derivative that’s very stable and soluble in both water and oil. Another 1-star review says, “I think this is a straight rip off :/ it wasn’t doing anything for my skin and the orange smell was super intense – so I looked at the ingredients…. it’s basically water, glycerin, and a cheaper solvent. The Cerave Vitamin C Serum is a little bit cheaper but has wayyyyy more quality ingredients, vitamin C being the 2nd instead of the 4th or 5th lol I think I’ll give that one a try next instead.” Our Verdict Another skin-brightening ingredient in RoC Vitamin C Serum is nonapeptide-1. Similar to vitamin C, nonapeptide-1 functions to prevent melanin synthesis by preventing activation of the tyrosinase. The result is fewer dark spots and a more even skin tone.

By inhibiting Cathepsin G, a unique enzyme involved in photoaging and thus modulating the origin of sun-induced MMP production, Elix-IR protects the skin from global sun damage (UV and Infrared). Polygonum aviculare extract (Elix-IR) is a natural botanical extract of knotgrass that’s rich in flavonoids. And another 5-star review says, “After the first month I noticed a real difference in the texture and appearance of my skin. It looks so much firmer, hydrated and younger. My ‘lines’ are not as distinct or deep. I have been using this for 3 months and would definitely recommend it.” Before we get into the details, here’s the TL;DR if you just want to know whether or not RoC Vitamin C Serum is right for you.

Beneficial key ingredients (Vitamin C, Nonapeptide-1, Ciste’M, Troxerutin and Polygonum Aviculare Extract)

Vitamin C also helps fade dark spots, evens out skin tone, and increases radiance by preventing melanin synthesis. We may have developed the first hypoallergenic product, the first sunscreen and the first over-the-counter Retinol, but that’s just the beginning. We continue to research, reinvent, and innovate to develop new formulas. By building on our past and looking to the future, we’re committed to helping you be your best at every age. You’ll also find a few flavonoids in RoC Vitamin C Serum, such as troxerutin and polygonum aviculare extract (Elix-IR). RoC’s Revive + Glow Collection is formulated with a 10% Vitamin C Blend proven to deliver glowing, brighter, tighter skin. This blend combines Vitamin C in its true form, ascorbic acid, with complementary antioxidants, Nonapeptide-1 and Advanced Hydrators, that work together – for clinically proven results you can’t achieve from Vitamin C alone." Why are we committed to this rigorous approach? Because of our commitment to you. We deliver on our promises - visible results and a lifetime of healthier skin.Our innovative products are recognized by industry leaders, dermatologists and beauty editors, year after year, for their best-in-class effectiveness. We believe it’s our innovative, scientific approach to skincare that has set the bar for our award-winning products and continues to raise it.

Overall, we think that RoC Vitamin C Serum is an innovative vitamin C that combines stable 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid with peptides and flavonoids to help brighten the complexion, fade dark spots, and reduce signs of aging. RoC® has been revolutionizing skincare since 1957 when Dr. Jean-Charles Lissarrague, a French pharmacist at the Rogé Cavaillès pharmacy, created the first hypoallergenic skincare formulations. This was the first of many collaborations with dermatologists to provide them with safe and effective products for their patients. Dr. Lissarrague believed in innovative skincare solutions, based on science, to help women look and feel their best at every age. Water, Propanediol, PPG-24-Glycereth-24, Glycerin, 3-o-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Troxerutin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sodium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, PPG-26-Buteth-26, Fragrance, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Caprylyl Glycol, Disodium Phosphate, Nonapeptide-1, Sodium Phosphate, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Disodium EDTA, Polygonum Aviculare Extract, Cistus Monspeliensis Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Maltodextrin, Terminalia Ferdinandiana Fruit Extract, Citric Acid, Yellow 6 (CI 15985) For example, one review says, “Love this product! People don’t believe that I’m 63. Been using Roc for years. Not a wrinkle on my face.”