Parfum (synthetic fragrance) is listed as a single ingredient but can contain dozens to hundreds of undisclosed chemical compounds. Fragrance is the leading cause of contact dermatitis and skin sensitisation in leave-on skincare, and the specific allergens are not disclosed, making it impossible for sensitive-skin users to assess their personal risk. Two azo dyes are also present: CI 15985 (Sunset Yellow FCF) and CI 19140 (Tartrazine). These are cosmetic colourants that serve no skin function and have documented allergen potential in subpopulations; CI 19140 in particular is a known cross-reactor in people with aspirin sensitivity.

The active core — Ascorbyl Glucoside, Niacinamide, and Tocopherol — is a credible brightening combination with supporting evidence. Sodium Hyaluronate adds hydration. The weak points are the two azo dyes and synthetic fragrance, which contribute nothing to skin health but do add allergen load to a daily moisturiser. The Vitamin C form used is Ascorbyl Glucoside, a stable derivative with lower bioactivity than L-Ascorbic Acid. This is not communicated in the product name, which could lead consumers to expect the potency of a pure L-Ascorbic Acid product.

The full INCI list is published on dotandkey.com and both the dyes and fragrance are included. However, the fragrance is listed only as 'Parfum' with no breakdown of constituent allergens, which is unhelpful for consumers with sensitive skin or known fragrance sensitivities. The product is marketed under a 'Vitamin C' name but uses Ascorbyl Glucoside, not L-Ascorbic Acid — a meaningful difference in potency that consumers deserve to know.

Synthetic azo dyes have documented aquatic toxicity concerns. The fragrance composition is undisclosed. Dot & Key is an Indian brand and is not sold in markets with mandatory animal testing requirements. Packaging is plastic.