Most Vitamin C serums fail before they start. Traditional ascorbic acid oxidises in the bottle. High-pH formulas disrupt the skin's microbiome. The barrier that was supposed to absorb the actives ends up blocking them instead.

Triple C Serum was built around a different starting point. Three stabilised Vitamin C forms — 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, and Amla — work through two delivery pathways, water-soluble and oil-soluble, to reach multiple layers of skin. The formula is pH-calibrated to 5.0 to preserve the microbiome, not disrupt it.

The result is a serum that absorbs faster than most Vitamin C products you've used, starts visibly working on dark spots within weeks, and never compromises the barrier it depends on.

Step 1 — Gently cleanse to remove impurities and prepare skin for absorption.

Step 2 — Apply 1-2 pumps to clean, damp skin. Pat gently until absorbed. For best results, use Replenishing Essence to dampen skin before application.

Step 3 — Follow with Hydrating Moisturizer. Always use SPF during the day.

Tip — Triple C Serum is formulated for sensitive skin and is microbiome-friendly. If you're new to active serums, do a patch test first: apply a small amount to your inner arm and wait 24 hours before adding it to your full routine.

Domestic shipping: Free on all U.S. orders $60 or more.

International shipping: Free on orders $200 or more.

Processing time: 3-5 business days after checkout.

Delivery: Tracking number sent by email when your order ships. Delivery time varies by shipping method chosen at checkout.

Damaged products: If your order arrives damaged, email layers@plantkosskincare.com with photos and your order details. We'll arrange a replacement or refund.

What causes dark spots, and what are the different types?

Dark spots form when melanocytes — the cells responsible for pigment — produce melanin unevenly. The main types are sun spots (from UV exposure), post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (from acne or irritation), and melasma (hormonally driven). Triple C addresses all three by supporting even tone at the level of pigment production, not just the surface.

How is this different from other Vitamin C serums?

Most serums use a single form of Vitamin C that oxidises quickly and disrupts the skin's microbiome. Triple C uses three stabilised forms working through two delivery pathways, at a pH of 5.0 that preserves beneficial bacteria. The formula was validated with $40,000 in clinical testing on 3D human skin models — not a consumer survey.

How long does it take to see results?

Most people start noticing a difference between weeks 2 and 4. Deeper hyperpigmentation and stubborn dark spots take longer — typically month 2 onward. Consistent daily use is what drives results.

Is this suitable for sensitive skin?

Yes. The formula is pH-calibrated and microbiome-friendly, which makes it gentler than most Vitamin C serums. If you're new to active serums, do a patch test first: apply a small amount to your inner arm and wait 24 hours before using on your face.

Does this work for age spots and sunspots?

Yes. Age spots and sunspots are caused by UV-triggered melanin overproduction. The three Vitamin C forms in Triple C work together to reduce the appearance of existing spots and help defend against new ones forming.

Does this work for melasma?

Melasma is hormonally driven and one of the harder forms of hyperpigmentation to address. Triple C can help reduce its appearance over time, but results vary and it works best as part of a consistent routine. We'd recommend managing expectations: improvement is gradual.

Who can use this serum?

Anyone dealing with dark spots, uneven tone, dullness, or fine lines. It's formulated for all skin types including sensitive. The Phytoclinical Fitzpatrick Formulation™ was specifically developed to work across all Fitzpatrick skin tones.

Can I use this with retinol, niacinamide, or other actives?

Yes. Triple C is compatible with niacinamide and most other actives. If you're using retinol, apply Triple C in the morning and retinol at night to avoid any potential interaction.