GlowAF
It is still in your bathroom. You are still applying it every morning. But it may not have been active for weeks. Here is how to know.
Sign 1
A fresh vitamin C serum is clear to pale yellow. Once it turns orange or brown, the active ingredient has oxidised and is delivering zero brightening benefit. Discard it.
Sign 2
If a serum you have been using for weeks suddenly stings without producing visible glow, oxidised compounds are reacting with your skin. The product is degraded.
Sign 3
A vitamin C serum that lasts 6 months in a cool climate can degrade in 3 to 4 weeks in Indian summer heat and bathroom humidity.
Sign 4
Oxidation changes the molecular structure. Along with colour change, consistency shifts are another sign the formula has broken down and is no longer active.
Sign 5
If your skin shows no change in brightness or dark spots after 8 weeks of consistent use, the most likely cause is an oxidised serum that has not been working at all.
The Fix
Ethyl Ascorbic Acid and encapsulated vitamin C do not oxidise in Indian heat. They survive summer and monsoon conditions and work consistently through a full course of use.
Storage
Refrigerate L-Ascorbic Acid serums. Buy smaller 15 to 20ml bottles you can finish in 4 to 6 weeks rather than large bottles that sit open for months and gradually degrade.
GlowAF
30 verified serums ranked by price, vitamin C form and skin type. Every product on Amazon India with verified affiliate links.
View Vitamin C Guide