Dual-Source Vitamin C. Ferulic Acid. CBD. The Brightening Protocol That Actually Works.
Most Vitamin C serums fail for one of two reasons: the Vitamin C is unstable and oxidizes before it reaches the skin, or it's delivered in a single form that can't penetrate both the water and lipid layers of the skin barrier. DEFY C+ solves both problems.
Two forms of stabilized Vitamin C — one oil-soluble, one water-soluble — work simultaneously across both phases of the skin barrier. Ferulic Acid stabilizes both forms and amplifies their antioxidant activity. Organic Squalane and Organic Grapeseed Oil provide the lipid-phase delivery vehicle. And 100mg of organic hemp-derived CBD (THC ≤0mg) supports the skin's natural response to environmental stress and the visible redness that can follow acne or procedures.
This vegan, cruelty-free CBD Vitamin C serum delivers vivid clarity and radical antioxidant defense. Apply in the morning. Always follow with SPF.
The Dual-Source Vitamin C System — Why It Matters
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Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (THA) — oil-soluble Vitamin C. Penetrates the lipid layer of the skin barrier directly, reaching deeper dermal layers where collagen synthesis and melanin regulation occur. More stable than L-Ascorbic Acid. Does not require low pH to be effective.
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Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (SAP) — water-soluble Vitamin C. Converts to active ascorbic acid on the skin surface. Documented brightening, antioxidant, and mild clarifying activity. Stable at physiological pH. Appropriate for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
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Ferulic Acid — a hydroxycinnamic acid antioxidant that stabilizes both THA and SAP, preventing oxidative degradation and amplifying their combined antioxidant efficacy. The clinical standard for Vitamin C serum stabilization.
Together, these three actives deliver comprehensive brightening, antioxidant defense, and collagen support across both phases of the skin barrier — something no single-source Vitamin C serum can achieve.
Active Ingredients & Clinical Function
Cannabidiol (CBD) — 100mg Organic Hemp-Derived | THC ≤0mg
CBD engages CB2 receptors in the skin's immune cells, supporting the skin's natural response to daily environmental stress and the visible redness that can follow acne, procedures, or UV exposure. Non-intoxicating. Non-detectable THC on every batch COA. View our third-party lab tests & COAs →
Organic Squalane
A stable, plant-derived analog of the skin's own squalene. Provides lightweight, non-comedogenic lipid-phase hydration and serves as the primary delivery vehicle for the oil-soluble Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate. Appropriate for all skin types including oily and acne-prone.
Organic Grapeseed Oil (Vitis vinifera)
Rich in linoleic acid and oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs) — potent antioxidants that complement the Vitamin C system. Lightweight, rapidly absorbing, and non-comedogenic. Supports barrier integrity and provides additional antioxidant photoprotection.
Organic Hemp Seed Oil
Omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acid ratio of approximately 3:1. Ceramide-rich — supports the skin's barrier function and moisture retention. Non-comedogenic. Contains no cannabinoids — distinct from CBD.
Organic Vitamin E Oil (Tocopherol)
Works synergistically with Vitamin C and Ferulic Acid to provide comprehensive antioxidant defense. The classic Vitamin C + E + Ferulic Acid combination is one of the most well-documented antioxidant protocols in clinical skincare.
Cetearyl Olivate + Sorbitan Olivate — Lamellar Emulsion System
Olive-derived emulsifiers forming lamellar structures that mimic the skin's natural lipid bilayers. Enhances active ingredient absorption and delivers the lightweight, non-greasy texture appropriate for a morning brightening serum.
Organic Lemongrass Essential Oil
A bright, citrusy aromatic finish with mild clarifying properties. Note: patch test recommended for fragrance-sensitive skin. Contains citral — use with SPF as directed.
Full Ingredient Deck
Distilled Water, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Organic Squalane, Organic Grapeseed Oil, 1,3 Propane Diol, Glyceryl Oleate Citrate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Organic Vitamin E Oil, Organic Hemp Seed Oil, Heptyl Undecylenate, Organic Vegetable Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Ferulic Acid, Cannabidiol (from Organic Hemp), Citric Acid, Sodium Gluconate, Xanthan Gum, Organic Lemongrass Essential Oil, Benzyl Alcohol, Salicylic Acid, Sorbic Acid.
CBD: 100mg Organic Hemp-Derived | Total THC: ≤0mg | Size: 1oz / 30mL
How to Use
Apply 1–2 pumps in the morning, dotting over face and neck. Blend in upward, sweeping motions. Always follow with SPF — Vitamin C serums increase photosensitivity and require sun protection to maintain efficacy and prevent UV-induced oxidative damage. Do not use with niacinamide in the same routine step — apply separately (morning vs. evening) to avoid potential interaction. Pairs well with REPAIR Daily Moisturizer as your morning protocol.
Safety & Transparency
- Vegan. PETA Certified Cruelty-Free.
- Third-party batch tested: potency, microbials, heavy metals, residual solvents — view lab tests
- Formulated and manufactured in our CDPHE-licensed Colorado lab
- Contains Organic Lemongrass Essential Oil — patch test recommended for fragrance-sensitive skin
- Always follow with SPF — Vitamin C increases photosensitivity
- THC ≤0mg — appropriate for drug-tested individuals
- Learn more about CBD in skincare.
- This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Rooted in Science. Created with Intention. Made with Love.
