Ole Henriksen Truth Serum Dupes & Cheaper Alternatives
From 5 Reddit threads · Updated October 31, 2026
Fragranced vitamin C serum with creamsicle scent; delivers results, breaks out acne-prone users. The catch: sticky finish on the face. Here's what Redditors reach for instead.
The short answer
Best Overall AlternativeAscorbic acid visibly fades post-acne marks with consistent use
Best Cheaper Alternative5% ascorbic acid for gentle brightening · $14.50 · 34.9 ml vs $27.00 for the original
#1
Best Overall Alternative
The why
This ascorbic acid essence targets post-acne marks and dullness with a tube that slows oxidation. It fits consistent morning routines for sensitive skin, though the oily feel annoys, and reactive or acne-prone users report irritation and breakouts.
One minus
Oily slip can feel greasy and slow to absorb
Good forSensitive Skin, Dry Skin
The original, at a glance
- Why people love it
- Fragranced vitamin C that actually works
- Price
- $27.00 · 29.6 ml · $0.91/ml
#2
Best Cheaper Alternative
- Size: 34.9 ml
- Price per ml: $0.42/ml (original $0.91/ml)
The why
A 5% ascorbic acid serum with glycerin and sodium hyaluronate, aimed at gentle morning brightening rather than dramatic pigment correction. Sensitive or eczema-prone users often like its mildness, but greasy feel, stinging, and rapid oxidation can derail a bottle.
One minus
Oxidizes within weeks; refrigeration helps
Good forSensitive Skin, Dry Skin
Other alternatives worth a look
15% pure L-ascorbic acid; strongest vitamin C form · 53 recs
Normal SkinUnder Makeup
20% L-ascorbic acid with Ferulic Acid and Alpha Tocopherol · 188 recs
Oily SkinDewy Finish
15% L-ascorbic acid with tocopherol and ferulic acid · 67 recs
Dry SkinDewy Finish
12% derivative with stable, low-drama use · 17 recs
HyperpigmentationVegan
Ascorbyl glucoside vitamin C at a clearly stated 15% · 8 recs
23% pure L-ascorbic acid for noticeable brightness and more even tone · 8 recs
Dry SkinBrightening
Cult under-$25 vitamin C pick · 4 recs
10% MAP derivative; gentler than standard ascorbic acid · 4 recs
Vegan
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