Versus

The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA Versus Topicals Faded Brightening + Clearing Serum

Serum
Serum
Canadian Brand
American Brand

Updated on May 29, 2025

Overview

What they are

These products are both vegan, cruelty-free, and reef safe serums. They have a total of 3 ingredients in common

Suited For

They're both likely to be good for dry skin, sensitive skin, scar healing and dark spots

Free From

They both do not contain any harsh alcohols, common allergens, fragrances, parabens, silicones or sulfates

We independently verify ingredients, and our claims are backed by peer-reviewed research. Spot a product that needs an update? Let us know.

Ingredient Info

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What's inside (and what isn't)

What's inside (and what isn't)

At a glance

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Benefits

Key Ingredients

Benefits

Concerns

Ingredients Side-by-side

found in both products
Faded Brightening + Clearing Serum

Ingredients Explained

These ingredients are found in both products.

Ingredients higher up in an ingredient list are typically present in a larger amount.

Preservative

Phenoxyethanol is a preservative that has germicide, antimicrobial, and aromatic properties. Studies show that phenoxyethanol can prevent microbial growth. By itself, it has a scent that is similar to that of a rose.

It's often used in formulations along with Caprylyl Glycol to preserve the shelf life of products.

Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate is used to help stabilize a product.

It is a chelating agent, meaning it helps prevent metal ions from binding to other ingredients. This prevents unwanted reactions in products. Metal ions can come into a product via the water ingredient. They are found in trace amounts and are not known to be harmful.

Skin Conditioning, Solvent

Water. It's the most common cosmetic ingredient of all. You'll usually see it at the top of ingredient lists, meaning that it makes up the largest part of the product.

So why is it so popular? Water most often acts as a solvent - this means that it helps dissolve other ingredients into the formulation.

You'll also recognize water as that liquid we all need to stay alive. If you see this, drink a glass of water. Stay hydrated!

Learn more about Water

When to use

38 Routines
50% use in am
50% use in pm
82% use every day
When to use See routines that use it ->
993 Routines
32% use in am
68% use in pm
70% use every day
When to use See routines that use it ->

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What people say
Works Well 50% Strong Scent 50% Great Value 30%