# Paula's Choice 25% Vitamin C + Glutathione Clinical Serum for sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for sensitive skin.**
Normal Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/25-vitamin-c-glutathione-clinical-serum/for/sensitive-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for the United Kingdom.

Brand: [Paula's Choice](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/paula-s-choice)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with sensitive skin: redness, stinging, and reactions to new products. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for sensitive skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate brightening and evening of skin tone for your normal skin due to the presence of tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate and glutathione, which provide antioxidant benefits and improve skin tone.
- While it offers general skincare benefits like hydration and antioxidant protection, it lacks specialized anti-inflammatory ingredients to address your redness and irritation concerns.
- The product is safe for your normal skin with sensitivity, as it contains no prohibited or harsh ingredients that could cause irritation.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/25-vitamin-c-glutathione-clinical-serum/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/25-vitamin-c-glutathione-clinical-serum/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/25-vitamin-c-glutathione-clinical-serum/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/25-vitamin-c-glutathione-clinical-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average (this page)
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/25-vitamin-c-glutathione-clinical-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/25-vitamin-c-glutathione-clinical-serum/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/25-vitamin-c-glutathione-clinical-serum/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/25-vitamin-c-glutathione-clinical-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/25-vitamin-c-glutathione-clinical-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Ascorbic Acid, Glutathione, Ergothioneine, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Tocopherol

## What the research says

- Topical oxidized glutathione significantly decreases the skin melanin index and improves moisture content, smoothness, wrinkle formation, and elasticity compared to placebo in healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25378941/))
- A 3-in-1 anti-aging topical night serum-in-oil applied once daily decreased wrinkles by 11%, increased skin firmness by 8%, reduced redness by 70%, and improved overall skin quality and complexion in 103 female subjects over 28 to 84 days compared to baseline. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30924254/))
- Topical formulations containing ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate, coenzyme Q10, green tea polyphenols, and resveratrol reduced the release of inflammatory cytokines and attenuated inflammatory signs compared to untreated skin and vehicle in 25 Japanese volunteers exposed to sodium dodecyl sulfate. ([European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28385617/))
- Topical application of 5% vitamin C cream significantly improved global clinical scores, increased skin microrelief density, and induced elastic tissue repair in photoaged skin compared to excipient control in healthy female volunteers. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12823436/))
- Ascorbic acid 2-glucoside gel significantly reduced gingival melanin pigmentation after 4 weeks compared to placebo in 73 subjects with symmetric pigmentation. ([Journal of Periodontology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19186973/))
- Topical application of VC-IP cream twice daily for 8 weeks reduces periorbital wrinkles in female subjects compared to a placebo cream. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34910367/))
- Glutathione amino acid precursors effectively increase cellular glutathione levels, reducing oxidative stress, ATP depletion, and DNA damage in human keratinocytes, clinical subjects, and ex vivo skin compared to controls. ([Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38189670/))
- Topical glutathione improves hyperpigmentation, reduces ultraviolet-induced erythema and wrinkles, decreases transepidermal water loss, and enhances antioxidant capacity. ([The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41416233/))
- RayGel reduced skin reaction severity with a lower average score of 93.7 compared to 123.3 for the placebo group in patients undergoing whole breast external-beam irradiation. ([American Journal of Surgery, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15862509/))
- A targeted skincare regimen containing active ingredients such as rhodophyceae extract, ergothioneine, and L-carnosine significantly reduced transepidermal water loss by 24.09%, improved skin elasticity, and decreased redness, dryness, and desquamation in thirty-five female Chinese participants over 4 weeks following advanced optimal pulse technology treatment. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40497421/))
- A triple combination of ergothioneine, collagen peptides, and sodium hyaluronate attenuated UV-induced skin damage ex vivo and improved facial skin hydration, elasticity, barrier function, and wrinkles in Chinese women. ([Frontiers in Nutrition, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42698538/))
- Ergothioneine at nanomolar concentrations ameliorated UVA-induced skin damage, reactive oxygen species, and apoptosis in human keratinocyte-derived HaCaT cells by upregulating Nrf2/ARE-mediated antioxidant genes. ([Free Radical Biology & Medicine, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26021820/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant serum containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented particulate matter-induced degradation of extracellular matrix components, inflammation, and oxidative stress in the skin of 15 female volunteers compared to untreated controls. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40642809/))
- Dermatological products containing d-alpha tocopheryl acetate showed non-comedogenic potential with less than a 50% increase in microcomedones in 12 healthy male subjects compared to octyl palmitate. ([Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471722/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant mix containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented PM and UV-induced skin barrier perturbation, lipid peroxidation, inflammatory markers, MMP9 activation, and Type I collagen loss in 15 healthy females compared to untreated exposed skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590207/))

## Why other serums fit sensitive skin better

- Topical application of TAT-SOD significantly suppresses UVB-induced erythema formation, blood flow rise, and apoptotic sunburn cell formation in human volunteers compared to a vehicle control. ([European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27460952/))

## What reviewers say

Many reviewers report a noticeable glow, improved skin bounce, and the fading of stubborn sun spots and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation after consistent use.

- Liked: Gentle & non-irritating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Effective brightening (often mentioned)
- Liked: Elegant texture (often mentioned)
- Disliked: High price point (often mentioned)
- Liked: Pleasant scent (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Heavy for oily (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your serum in the PM routine, starting 3 times a week before building up to daily use if your skin is happy.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toning, but before putting on your moisturizer for the best results.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and wait a minute ⏱ for it to soak in.
- Since your skin is sensitive and easily irritated, apply the serum on completely dry skin to help keep it calm.
- Always do a patch test before your first use and avoid getting the serum too close to your eyes .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Paula's Choice 25% Vitamin C + Glutathione Clinical Serum work for sensitive skin?

This product works for sensitive skin, though other treatments fit it better. While it is unlikely to cause irritation, it lacks specialized ingredients to calm redness and soothe irritation. Treatments that fit this skin best need effective calming ingredients and skin-repairing components that address redness without any risk of irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25378941/)

### Which ingredients make this serum a good fit for sensitive skin?

This serum works for sensitive skin because it contains gentle antioxidants like Ascorbic Acid, Glutathione, Ergothioneine, Ascorbyl Glucoside, and Tocopherol that help brighten and protect your skin safely. However, because it lacks specialized anti-inflammatory ingredients for redness and irritation, a product for this skin needs soothing and calming ingredients like niacinamide and snail secretion filtrate to fully address those concerns.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25378941/)

### What does Vitamin C do for sensitive skin?

Vitamin C helps brighten skin, smooth out fine lines, and fade dark spots. Clinical studies show it is generally safe and well-tolerated when improving overall skin quality.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37128827/)

### What does Glutathione do for sensitive skin?

Glutathione helps calm sensitive skin by reducing oxidative stress and protecting against environmental irritation. It is unlikely to cause irritation and has a very safe profile when used on the skin.
Sources: [Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38189670/), [Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27088927/)

### Where does this serum go in a skincare routine for sensitive skin?

This treatment goes in the evening routine after your soothing toner and before your moisturizer. A product of this type needs soothing and calming ingredients to help keep sensitive skin comfortable while brightening the tone.

### Can I use this serum with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this serum with retinol by applying your retinol product at night and using this vitamin C treatment in the morning or on alternate nights to avoid overwhelming your sensitive skin. This product is safe for sensitive skin, but to address redness and irritation concerns, a product of this type needs specialized calming and anti-inflammatory ingredients.

### How often should I use this serum?

This serum works well in your evening routine, and a product of this type needs soothing ingredients to help calm redness and irritation on sensitive skin.

### Can this serum clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for sensitive skin?

This serum is unlikely to cause breakouts or clog pores for sensitive skin, as it has a very low complaint rate for causing breakouts. To care for sensitive skin properly, a product of this type needs soothing, anti-inflammatory ingredients to calm redness and irritation.

### Is this serum fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Cetyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for sensitive skin

- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — £143.35 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — £25.95 at Amazon
- [COSRX The Vitamin C 23 Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/the-vitamin-c-23-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — £16.11 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £14.99 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £17.91 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Clinique Mineral Sunscreen Fluid for Face SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clinique/broad-spectrum-spf-50-mineral-sunscreen-fluid-for-face/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £21.00 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in United Kingdom has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Water, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Dimethicone, Glycerin, C9-12 Alkane, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Silica, Pyrus Malus Fruit Extract, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Polyglyceryl-6 Polyricinoleate, Acrylates C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Xanthan Gum, Rice Bran Extract, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Cetyl Alcohol, Caprylyl Glycol, Lysine Carboxymethyl Cysteinate, Coco Caprylate Caprate, Tocopherol, Glutathione, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Phytate, Hexylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Helianthus Annuus Seed Extract Sunflower Seed Extract, Urea, Mannitol, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Sodium Pca, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract Rosemary Leaf Extract, Polysorbate 60, Sorbitan Isostearate, Trehalose, Ascorbic Acid, Glucose, Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract, Polyquaternium-51, Ergothioneine, Triacetin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Phenoxyethanol
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/25-vitamin-c-glutathione-clinical-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/25-vitamin-c-glutathione-clinical-serum/for/sensitive-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/paula-s-choice/25-vitamin-c-glutathione-clinical-serum/for/sensitive-skin
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