My Verdict on the Hyperpigmentation Serum That Combines Vitamin C & Retinol

Ever heard of a brand called StriVectin?

Nope? I hadn’t either, until about a year ago.

But trust me, you're going to want to get to know StriVectin better.

And if you think it sounds science-y, well…

Ding, ding ding! That’s because it is.

Strivectin was founded in 2002 with the intention of creating innovative and science-based solutions for ageing and changing skin.

The brand formulates their products with their exclusive NIA-114™ technology, which has been in development for over 35 years (more on this later).

That’s what sets them apart from the competitors, and justifies the higher price tag on the products. 

There are a tonne of StriVectin products to suit different skin types and concerns, but one in particular caught my eye.

StriVectin Super-C Retinol Brightening & Correcting Serum 30ml is one of the brand's most popular launches to date.

As someone prone to hyperpigmentation and discolouration, I've ben using vitamin C skincare for years... but never vitamin C and retinol, together.

Keep scrolling for my StriVectin review, and to see if this hyperpigmentation serum is really worth the hefty price tag.

What Is StriVectin Super C + Retinol?

StriVectin Super-C Retinol Brightening & Correcting Serum 30ml had a bit of a contentious launch.

Why? Because it combines two active ingredients you don't usually see together - retinol and vitamin C.

And while they are two of the best ingredients in the skincare world, when paired together, vitamin C and retinol can either destabilise (meaning you won’t see results from either ingredient) or cause skin irritation… until now. 

So, how did StriVectin manage to bypass this and combine vitamin C and retinol in one serum?

Thanks to their NIA-114™technology, which is a patented form of Niacin/Vitamin B3 with enhanced bioavailability.

What this means is that their products are able to work effectively, without causing that dreaded retinol irritation we often face. 

Let’s look a bit closer at what StriVectin’s Super C + Retinol promises before I delve into my review of it: 

• StriVectin’s Super C + Retinol promises to restore radiance and clarity to dull, tired skin​. 

• Help reduce the look of fine lines and uneven texture​, and improve elasticity and collagen.

• Features forms of stabilised vitamin C + pure Vitamin C from Acerola Cherry Juice.

• Retinol works on fine lines and smoothing skin texture, and Proprietary Sea Salt Ferment helps keep the skin looking plump. 

But at $112, would it live up to its promises? Let's find out...

StriVectin Super C + Retinol Review.

When I first got my hands on this, I was a little skeptical.

Could this 30ml bottle target my fine lines, lessen my hyperpigmentation AND leave me with the glow I craved?

Let’s start with the packaging, which I adore.

The glass bottle comes with a pump dispenser (very convenient) and is a stunning shade of orange and pink.

Now, this is important because vitamin C oxidises quickly, so ensuring the packaging is opaque and won't let light through is key to the product’s efficacy. 

This serum has an almost dry oil-like consistency, and a floral fragrance to it.

Although vitamin C is usually reserved for the morning, I decided this would be best-suited in my routine after a PM cleanse, due to the retinol in it.

Upon application, I noticed a few things:

The serum melts in, leaving your skin feeling silky soft. There’s no sticky residue that can happen with other vitamin C serums.

There was no tingling - that can also tend to appear with some other retinol serums.

I’ve been using it almost daily for about a week now, and I haven’t experienced any dryness or flakiness that is often associated with such active ingredients.

In fact, I’ve found the opposite – my skin feels juicy and PLUMP!

Just look at the before and after!

I touched on this before, but I put this down to StriVectin’s patented Niacin blend that works to strengthen the skin barrier.

Just remember to apply and reapply SPF when using any form of vitamin A, as our skin can be more sensitive to sun exposure.

Don't forget your hat, sunnies and protective clothing, and seek shade when you can. You know the drill!

In terms of results, it’s too early to comment on anything more than the instant glow, because active skincare takes minimum six to eight weeks to do its thing.

But I’ll tell you one thing, I am VERY excited to be able to cut down some skincare steps, especially as we enter event season. 

If you’re time poor like me (and let’s be honest, we’re all time poor during Christmas), then your skin and your wallet will be thrilled to have this serum in your routine.

Best StriVectin Products.

Since reviewing this product, I’ve low key become obsessed with the brand.

I already have my eye on some more StriVectin goodies!

Here’s what is on my StriVectin wish list, and why I'll be adding them to my next AB order.

Want to read more about retinols? Check out these Beauty IQ articles below:

• A Beginner's Guide to Retinol: How to Add Vitamin A Into Your Skincare Routine

• Hands Down, These Are Our Best Retinol Serums of 2024 (Top 8)

• Bargain vs Bougie: The Difference Between Our 4 Best-Selling Retinol Serums

• This Could Be The Best Retinol We've Tried For Sensitive Skin