Welcome and Product Introduction

In this section, the content creator introduces two products from The Ordinary for comparison: Alpha Arbutin and Hyaluronic Acid Serum, and Sorbo Glucoside Solution.

Comparison of Absorbable Glucoside Solution

• The Absorbable Glucoside Solution contains 12% absorbable glucoside, a stabilized vitamin C derivative.

• The product description highlights vitamin C as an effective antioxidant that brightens the skin tone and reduces signs of aging.

• Absorbable Glucoside is praised for its high stability and comfortable use but may lack the potency of direct L-ascorbic acid.

Vitamin C Complexities

• L-ascorbic acid, a common form of vitamin C, is unstable in water, posing challenges for effectiveness.

• Sorbo Glucoside offers stability but its conversion to ascorbic acid on the skin remains uncertain.

• Challenges with vitamin C include stability issues and penetration barriers due to its water-soluble nature.

Personal Experience and Recommendations

The content creator shares personal experiences with vitamin C products and provides recommendations based on preferences.

Personal Insights

• Introducing vitamin C into skincare routines can lead to improvements in skin health based on individual responses.

• While not the favorite form of vitamin C, Sorbo Glucoside can still offer benefits depending on skin reactions.

Spots and Hyperpigmentation: Alpha Arbutin vs. Vitamin C

In this section, the speaker discusses the comparison between alpha arbutin and vitamin C in addressing spots and hyperpigmentation.

Alpha Arbutin Strengths

• Alpha arbutin is used at a high two percent concentration, stronger than arbutin or beta arbutin.

• Similar to vitamin C, alpha arbutin targets hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and melasma.

• Considered a safer alternative to hydroquinone due to fewer potential side effects.

Using Both Ingredients

• No clear superiority between alpha arbutin and vitamin C; effectiveness varies based on individual skin response.

• Suggested to use both serums together for treating dark spots in skincare routine.

Application and Irritation Potential

• Vitamin C can be applied all over the face but may cause irritation for some individuals.

• Lower pH products like vitamin C can lead to skin irritation; similar potential with alpha arbutin.

Effectiveness of Alpha Arbutin and Vitamin C

This section delves into the potency of using both alpha arbutin and vitamin C together for treating dark spots.

Combination Potency

• Combining both ingredients in skincare routine likely more potent than using either alone for dark spot treatment.

Formulation Comparison

• Formulation of both serums is comparable; not too heavy or greasy, suitable under makeup leaving a tacky residue that acts as a primer.

Final Thoughts on Skincare Ingredients

The speaker concludes by providing insights on the necessity of these ingredients in skincare routines.

Necessity Consideration

• Depending on skincare goals, neither ingredient may be essential; other more effective options like tretinoin exist but at higher price points.

Recommendation Alternatives

• Tretinoin recommended over alpha arbutin and vitamin C for fading dark spots if price is not a concern; however, affordability plays a role in product selection.

Audience Engagement: Product Experiences

Encouraging audience interaction regarding experiences with alpha arbutin, vitamin C products, or other similar ingredients.

Audience Interaction