Professional-C Serum 20% Review: A Brightening Solution?

Overview

Some days, you don’t even want to look in the mirror. Dull skin, stubborn fine lines, or those irksome dark spots that seem to pop up out of nowhere—it’s annoying and, frankly, exhausting.

If you’ve been searching for a way to revive your skin and recapture that coveted healthy glow, let’s talk.

Obagi’s Professional-C Serum 20% promises a solution. It’s packed with 20% L-Ascorbic Acid, a potent form of Vitamin C, that claims to brighten skin tone, tackle fine lines, and shield your skin from environmental stressors like blue light. Designed for normal to oily skin types, it aims to deliver a smoother, more radiant complexion without weighing you down.

But does it really live up to the hype? Let’s see what this serum has to offer.

What is ‘Professional-C Serum 20%?’

Obagi Professional-C Serum 20% is a concentrated facial serum designed for normal to oily skin. It features 20% L-Ascorbic Acid, a form of Vitamin C associated with skin-brightening and protective qualities.

This lightweight serum is intended to help address uneven skin tone, fine lines, and discoloration, while also bolstering the skin’s defenses against environmental stressors like blue light and infrared radiation.

Its fast-absorbing, non-greasy formula is designed to integrate easily into a morning skincare routine.

How Does Professional-C Serum 20% Rate According to Our Experts?

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About the Manufacturer

Obagi is a well-regarded skincare brand known for its medical-grade products backed by over 35 years of clinical research. Based in the United States, they claim to develop solutions, catering to diverse skin types and tones.

Their commitment to innovation and inclusivity has had them selling products in more than 60 countries. While their focus on rigorous testing ensures quality, the premium pricing tends to scare away potential users.

How Does Professional-C Serum 20% Work?

Obagi Professional-C Serum 20% works by delivering a concentrated formula designed to support healthier-looking skin.

The serum claims to target signs of aging, like fine lines and wrinkles, while brightening the overall skin tone.

It’s said to improve skin texture and tone by addressing issues like dark spots and dullness. The fast-absorbing formula integrates easily into daily skincare, aiming to protect the skin from environmental stressors.

Applied in the morning, it works as part of a routine to help neutralize free radicals and combat oxidative damage. This process, in turn, may promote a refreshed and even complexion.

While it claims to focus on visible improvements, it’s important to use it alongside sunscreen to help protect from further damage.

Professional-C Serum 20% Key Ingredients – Are They Safe & Effective?

The standout ingredient in Obagi Professional-C Serum 20% is L-ascorbic Acid. Here’s the science behind it;

L-Ascorbic Acid 20%

L-ascorbic Acid is the purest form of Vitamin C, and in this serum, it’s used at a high concentration of 20%. Known for its antioxidant properties, it helps neutralize free radicals caused by environmental exposures like pollution and UV radiation. This is vital in preventing premature skin aging and oxidative stress.

L-ascorbic Acid aims to reduce the appearance of dark spots and dullness, contributing to a more even complexion. It’s also noted for supporting collagen production, which may help diminish the look of fine lines and improve skin elasticity over time.

How to Use Professional-C Serum 20%

Apply 5–7 drops of Obagi Professional-C Serum 20% to clean, dry skin in the morning. Gently massage the serum onto your face, neck, and décolletage using your fingertips.

Allow it to fully absorb before layering it with moisturizer and sunscreen to protect your skin throughout the day.

Benefits of Professional-C Serum 20%

• Brightens Skin Appearance: Professional-C Serum 20% claims to help improve skin tone by reducing dullness and dark spots. Its targeted action may result in a visibly brighter complexion.
• Minimizes Fine Lines and Wrinkles: By supporting the skin’s natural repair process, the serum is said to smooth fine lines and soften wrinkles over time.
• Protects Against Environmental Damage: The formula is designed to combat free radicals caused by environmental stressors like pollution and UV rays. This protection may help slow premature aging.
• Improves Overall Skin Texture: Regular use is suggested to enhance skin’s smoothness and elasticity, contributing to a softer, more even feel.
• Integrates Easily into Skincare Routine: Professional-C Serum 20%’s lightweight, fast-absorbing formula allows effortless layering with other skincare products, making it convenient for daily use.

Side Effects Of Professional-C Serum 20%

Some Obagi Professional-C Serum 20% users have reported experiencing mild irritation, redness, or tingling during application. Others mention dryness or even slight peeling, particularly when first adding the serum to their regimen. For individuals with sensitive skin, these effects may feel more pronounced, and some reviews cite dehydration as a concern after prolonged use.

Safety Of Professional-C Serum 20%

To enhance safety, follow application instructions carefully. Start with a patch test on a small area to check for adverse reactions. Limit initial use to every other day before increasing frequency, allowing your skin to adjust. Always apply sunscreen during the day to protect the skin, as vitamin C can make it more sensitive to sunlight. Store the serum in a cool, dark place to prevent oxidation and maintain efficacy.

Professional-C Serum 20% Price

A single bottle of Obagi Professional-C Serum 20% costs $150 for a one-time purchase on Amazon.

For those looking to save, subscription options are available.

With a 10% discount, the price drops to $135 per bottle. Opting for a 15% subscription discount brings the cost down further.

You can purchase this product directly from the official website, or find it on Amazon and Walmart.

Professional-C Serum 20% Review – FAQs

Q: Can sensitive skin types use Professional-C Serum 20%?

A: Those with sensitive skin should be cautious. Start with a small patch test, and use it every other day to allow your skin to adjust. If irritation occurs, consider using a lower concentration like 10% or 15%.

Q: Why does Professional-C Serum 20% darken over time?

A: This happens due to oxidation when the vitamin C is exposed to air, light, or heat for extended periods. While slightly darker serum may still be safe, it’s less effective. Always store it correctly and use it within 3-6 months of opening.

Q: Can I use Professional-C Serum 20% with sunscreen?

A: Yes, pairing it with sunscreen is highly recommended. Vitamin C strengthens your skin’s defenses against UV damage, making sunscreen more effective. Apply the serum first and allow it to absorb before applying sunscreen.

Q: Is Professional-C Serum 20% safe to use during pregnancy?

A: We don’t recommend using the serum during pregnancy. Always consult your healthcare provider before introducing any new product into your routine while pregnant.

Q: What should I do if my skin feels dry or tight after use?

A: The serum’s low pH may cause dryness for some users. To counteract this, follow up with a hydrating moisturizer and drink adequate water. You can also reduce usage to every other day.

What Do Professional-C Serum 20% Reviews Say?

Here’s what some of the previous users had in mind;

Considering how expensive this product is ($127) the ingredients are very cheap. First ingredient is propylene glycol (Propylene glycol is used by the chemical, food, and pharmaceutical industries as an antifreeze), water and alcohol. These are ingredients I would never put anywhere on my body. –Sangeeta Grewal.

I am very disappointed in the product. It did not work for me. I have been using this product for over a month and not seeing any improvement in my skin. This product was recommended by my dermatologist. For being so expensive and did not work i will not buy again. –Simone.

I noticed a slight order to this bottle. My wife had already started using or I probably would have returned. Will make sure I check close this time. It also seemed to be more of a yellow tint. I don’t recall these attributes on the last bottle (odor / tint). –mf.

Professional-C Serum 20% Review – Conclusion

The Professional-C Serum 20% by Obagi boasts potent concentration and targeted formulation. Its focus on brightening, smoothing, and protecting the skin sounds good to those seeking noticeable care.

However, users with sensitive skin may need to approach cautiously due to occasional tingling or dryness. Storage requirements demand attention too, as improper handling may affect its potency.

Whether it’s right for you depends entirely on your skin’s needs, preferences, and tolerance. Products like this may offer potential benefits but also require consistent care and proper use. If you’re considering trying it, weigh both its strengths and limitations thoughtfully.