30-ethyl ascorbic acid for skin 3-0-ethyl ascorbic acid in face serum effective vitamin C face serum face serum for brighter-looking skin good vitamin C face serum list of the best vitamin c serums Lumene Nordic C Glow Boost Essence review Nanoil Vit. C Face Serum review Sesderma C-Vit Liposomal Serum review The Ordinary Ascorbyl Glucoside Serumsare a skin care product with high concentrations of certain active ingredients. These ingredients can be things like hyaluronic acid (to reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles), vitamin C (to brighten the skin and help reduce the appearance of pigmentation and age spots) or glycolic acid (an exfoliant), to name just three. LinkReviews; The 10 Best Vit C Face Cream of 2022; The 10 Best Vit C Face Cream of 2022 LinkReviews. Feb 3, 2022 5:06 PM. We research and ranked the top 10 Best Vit C Face Cream in 2022. With the support of 72,814 customer's reviews, Skin Brightening Serum for Face with 10% Pure Vitamin C | Fragrance Free | 1 Fl. Oz View on Amazon. SCORE. 9.0. Itcontains 10% l-ascorbic acid (vitamin c), 2% phloretin and 0.5% ferulic acid and this combination makes for brilliant antioxidant protection. It also has an excellent track record and you will Vay Tiền Trả Góp Theo Tháng Chỉ Cần Cmnd Hỗ Trợ Nợ Xấu. We’re all searching for that holy grail product that can give you the glowy skin of your dreams, no Instagram filter C is one of a handful of skin ingredients clinically shown to transform skin. Consistent use of the right product which will vary depending on your skin type will leave you with a more even skin tone, bouncier skin and glowing appearance. RELATED We Try Anti-ageing facial creams for every stage of life“Vitamin C is a bit of a blockbuster ingredient when it comes to preventing and treating skin ageing,” says Dr Ginni Mansberg, GP and founder of Australian brand Evidence Skincare.“Firstly, vitamin C acts as an antioxidant, mopping up harmful free radicals that can damage the skin. There is evidence that vitamin C and reduces pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles. It also brightens and evens out skin tone while protecting and repairing your skin from UV ray damage. Vitamin C also helps promote and produce collagen and elastin.” In other words – if you’re on the hunt for one simple product to add to your skin routine that’ll work overtime to totally refresh your visage, a vitamin C serum is the way to go. BEST VITAMIN C SERUMNot sure where to start? We’ve narrowed down your search with this list of the best vitamin C serums money can buy, from budget picks to high-end TO Editor’s picksBest vitamin C serums for sensitive skinBest affordable vitamin C serumsBest vitamin C serum for oily skinBest vitamin C serum for acne-prone skin Best vegan vitamin C serums Best vitamin C serums for dark spots Best vitamin C serums for dry skin BEST VITAMIN C SERUMS EDITOR’S PICKSGo-To Skincare Much Brighter Skin, $59A vitamin C serum that beauty entrepreneur Zoe Foster Blake swears by for her “glowy” skin, this product is packed with all the antioxidants your skin could ever formulated with vitamin C of course, niacinamide, kakadu plum, vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, glycerin and more to keep your skin looking bright, tight and love that this silky orange serum comes in a pretty pink pump bottle. Not only does it look cute but it also means that no oxygen can get in the way and disrupt the formulation of the serum – which is something that can potentially happen with glass dropper style racked up well over 1,300 five-star ratings on the Go-To Skincare website, with countless happy customers calling it “brilliant” and a “crucial part” of their skincare routine. Another person said “there was noticeable lightening of the pigmentation within 2 weeks.”SHOP HEREOle Henriksen Banana Bright vitamin C Serum, THE ICONIC, $98This is Ole Henriksen’s hero product, with countless glowing pun intended reviews across Google and social media. On TikTok it’s regularly featured on skintok, with users showing off the impressive results of the hardworking serum. Five star reviews from happy shoppers say it gives them “glass skin” and is “a staple of my morning routine”. “It’s lightweight, glides onto your skin, and absorbs beautifully, leaving almost a silky finish with no tackiness,” one customer wrote in their review. Combining three “Ole Glow” icons – 15 per cent vitamin C, chemically exfoliating Polyhydroxy Acids, and colour correcting banana powder-inspired pigments – this serum instantly brightens and helps to defend skin against pollution. Added hyaluronic acid plumps skin with moisture, so your skin feels fresh, bouncy and Roche-Posay Redermic Pure Vitamin C10 Serum, Adore Beauty, $ Boasting a very impressive out of five stars rating from over a whopping 5,576 reviews, this La Roche-Posay serum has well and truly earned its spot at the top of this list. The innovative formula contains 10 per cent pure vitamin C, alongside salicylic acid to eliminate dead cells and Neurosensine to soothe irritation and brighten the skin. It has a light and fast-absorbing texture that won’t slow down your daily routine, and the velvety, non-greasy feel makes it easy to follow with makeup have called it “amazing”, “excellent quality”, and “mind-blowing”, with one noting “I’ve tried all the expensive options … and actually prefer this formula. It completely dries down and leaves no tacky residue. After using for a few weeks I’m already seeing great results, plumper skin and diminishing fine lines!”SHOP HEREAdvanced Clinicals vitamin C Anti Aging Serum, iHerb, $10The most affordable option on this list, this product has a whopping 20,000 five star reviews on iHerb where it is their best-selling vitamin C serum. As well as vitamin C this serum contains ferulic acid to help even skin tone, antioxidant rich K3 Vita C and aloe vera to smooth skin. “I have been using this product for over three months, I can’t imagine my face without it,” one shopper wrote in a five star review. “I tried this product with little expectation, considering its price as a vitamin C serum as compared to the other brands,” another five star review reads. “But I am surprised that it worked, not immediately, but gradually.”SHOP HERE SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Serum, Adore Beauty, $236This is THE cult favourite vitamin C serum that the internet won’t stop raving about, and if you haven’t yet made its acquaintance, allow us to introduce you. The C E Ferulic Serum is an antioxidant-rich blend of 15 per cent vitamin C to minimise hyperpigmentation and brown spots while boosting collagen production for firmer skin; one per cent vitamin E to defend against free radical damage and reduce inflammation; and ferulic acid to enhance the efficacy of the latter two ingredients and provide unparalleled anti-ageing and protective benefits. In short, it can brighten skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, protect your skin against damage and provide an overall radiant, youthful obviously doesn’t come cheap, but we can assure you it’s worth the hefty spend – just read what Best Of Editor, Edwina, thought of the serum, after trialling it for five months to address the stubborn post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation PIHP left from her adult HEREBEST VITAMIN C SERUM FOR SENSITIVE SKINTribe Skincare Brightening vitamin C Serum, Healthy Life, $68Tribe Skincare is an Australian-made beauty brand that specialises in products for sensitive skin. Everything in their range is pregnancy-safe and vegan friendly, including their vitamin C vitamin C also contains niacinamide to help even skin and protect against damage as well as being chock-full of skin-loving antioxidants.“I’m not usually one to leave reviews but this product deserves it. I bought this as a spur of the moment purchase one day and I have not regretted it. I have extremely sensitive skin and have broken out into rashes in the past with other vitamin C products,” one five star review reads.“Within the first few days of trying this product my skin started to brighten, a month in and pigmentation started to fade.” SHOP HERE Youth To The People 15% vitamin C + Clean Caffeine Energy Serum, Sephora, $110Averaging close to five out of five stars from over 650 reviews, this Youth To The People serum adds caffeine into the mix to further brighten your complexion. A lightweight, non-sticky, fragrance-free option that’s ideal for sensitive skin, it aims to reduce hyperpigmentation, depuff, and firm the of its many fans commented, “It’s only been about 2 weeks since I’ve started using this and I’m blown away! My skin has never looked as glowy and smooth and overall as healthy HERE Alya Skin vitamin C Supercharged Serum, Oz Hair & Beauty, $ option on the more affordable side of things, this vegan serum harnesses the power of vitamin-C-rich Australian native ingredients and hyaluronic acid to create smooth and supple skin with greater elasticity and dewiness. It also fights against damage caused by environmental stressors and increases cell turnover for youthful skin at any reviewer left five stars, saying it “feels great on the skin and smells nice” and that their “skin feels bright”.SHOP HERE BEST AFFORDABLE VITAMIN C SERUMSSephora Collection Ultra Glow Serum, Sephora, $32This is a great affordable option from Sephora’s in house brand. Besides vitamin C this serum contains soothing vitamin E, natural peptides from marine algae to help tighten skin. The bottle is also made from 100 per cent recyclable glass and 97 per cent of its ingredients are derived from natural origin. “My favourite serum. I use this on daily basis, before my primer and then followed by my foundation etc,” one five star review reads.“Though subtle, you can see the natural glow it gives as compared to when you are not using it. “It’s also perfect for days when you wanna go for a no-makeup’ makeup look. This is my fifth bottle so I guess it can tell you how in love I am with this!”SHOP HERESkinHit Brightening Serum with vitamin C and Peptides, Beauty Bay, $12This serum may have an incredibly low price tag, but the dozens of positive reviews prove that it’s worthy of your attention. The vegan and cruelty-free combination boosts radiance with the addition of luminous peptides, while also evening out skin tone, and reducing the appearance of of the many reviewers who left a five-star review commented, “Only used for two days now but already makes me more confident in the quality of my skin. Definitely makes your skin look healthier and have a more natural glow and shine to it! I add to my moisturiser and it makes my skin feel even softer”.SHOP HEREArtnaturals vitamin C Brightening Serum, iHerb, $ down from $ vitamin C serum comes in at just under $10 – but that’s not the best part. The Artnaturals vitamin C Brightening Serum has racked up over 10,000 five-star reviews on iHerb with countless happy customers describing it as being “perfect”, “excellent” and “gentle enough to use everyday”.The unique formulation is designed to brighten dull skin, but it also promises to enhance hydration, soothe and moisturise your HEREThe Ordinary Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate Solution 20% in Vitamin F, Myer, $ for their no-frills approach to top-quality skincare at very affordable prices, The Ordinary are a natural inclusion in this list with their vitamin C serum sorry, I’m not typing out that full name again. Containing a high-strength, oil-solubilised vitamin C derivative that can be used in higher concentration than pure L-ascorbic acid without drawbacks, it’s combined with vitamin F fatty acids for extra soothing, calming and strengthening effects. It’s an especially good choice if you’ve tried vitamin C serums before to no avail, as the alternative makeup that uses a derivative rather than the pure form of the ingredient may respond better to your skin type, as one five-star reviewer noted “A game changer for me. Consistency of use is key to seeing results with vitamin C and I just couldn’t do it when I was using the vitamin C Suspension 23% … just too uncomfortable to use and took forever to absorb. This Vitamin F product proved to be a revelation no irritation or burning sensation and is absorbed quickly and completely by my skin. It is more expensive than the other products in the line but the resulting glowing and smooth skin make it all worth it”.SHOP HEREBEST VITAMIN C SERUM FOR OILY SKINESK C Serum Lite, Evidence Skincare, $90Since vitamin C requires an oil base to be stable, this serum uses a finer oil base that won’t worsen the condition of oily skin or those in humid environments. Ideal for normal and oilier skin types, the ESK C Serum Lite contains vitamin C in its most potent form – L-Ascorbic Acid, 10 per cent – to repair and prevent the appearance of ageing, from fine lines to wrinkles and pigmentation to skin adore the product, with one writing, “I was very pleased that I could swap the normal C serum for C Serum Lite with less oil. It goes on oily but magically is absorbed within five or 10 minutes. It seems very moisturising and clarifying. My skin appears smoother when using it”.I’ve also begun to incorporate this serum into my morning skin routine, and while it’s only been a few weeks, I’ve noticed increased smoothness and a more even tone across my cheeks especially – so I’m keen to keep using it to experience the full HEREBEST VITAMIN C SERUM FOR ACNE-PRONE SKINSkinCeuticals Silymarin CF 30ml, Adore Beauty, $236A vitamin C serum that’s directly targeted to those with oily and combination skin types and adult acne? The SkinCeuticals Silymarin CF Serum is formulated with 15 per cent l-ascorbic acid, per cent silymarin, per cent ferulic acid and per cent salicylic acid. This unique combination of ingredients ensures your skin looks brighter and smoother, all while loading up your skin with plenty of finished a bottle of the Silymarin CF and the iconic C E Ferulic serum. While I do love both formulas, I have to say the Silymarin CF is more suited to my skin type. I have combination skin – hello oily t-zone – and I struggle with adult acne. This vitamin C serum does a wonderful job at brightening the skin, addressing acne scarring issues, all while ensuring my face doesn’t feel super oily afterwards. I always follow up with a hydrating serum after my vitamin C in the morning, and I found the lightweight oil-free texture to act as the perfect base for the rest of my skincare HEREBEST VEGAN VITAMIN C SERUMKORA Organics Noni Bright vitamin C Serum, Adore Beauty, $89From model Miranda Kerr’s very own skincare brand, KORA Organics, comes this highly rated vitamin C serum. Ideal for all skin types, it contains a smart blend of botanical actives – think Kakadu plum, red pepper, olive leaf and more – to protect your skin from external damage, as well as a balanced concentration of vitamin C in the form of stable and skin-friendly 12 per cent Ascorbyl Glucoside that will deliver results without reviewer called it a “stunning vitamin C serum”, writing “it seems so lovely, has a lovely texture and doesn’t pill like others I’ve used. It absorbs very quickly and isn’t sticky at all. Love this serum and how much brighter my skin is after only a few days. Definitely recommend for combination skin types too as it isn’t oily”.SHOP HEREBiologi Bk vitamin C Face & Eye Serum, THE ICONIC, $88While this is designed to first be used as an eye serum it also works great as an all-over face vitamin C treatment. Made from vitamin C-rich kakadu plum, this serum is also Australian made. “Love it – the best eye cream I’ve used. Love that it’s multipurpose and I use for pigmentation elsewhere on my face,” one five star review reads. SHOP HEREBEST VITAMIN C SERUM FOR DARK SPOTSSkinstitut 10% vitamin C Super Serum 30ml, THE ICONIC, $69This vitamin C serum is one of three “power serums” released by Skinstitut last year as part of their rebrand. Each of the serums are approved by the Skinstitut Medical Advisory Council, a panel of leading Aussie doctors and serum contains a stable of powerful ingredients including 10 per cent stabilised vitamin C Ascorbyl Glucoside, ferulic acid plus kakadu plum and licorice root extracts to give you brighter skin all while combating free radical damage and dullness. SHOP HEREViviology vitamin C Serum 30ml, Adore Beauty, $55This serum gets rave reviews for being a high quality product that’s great value for money. Its ingredients are seriously hardworking, with 15 per cent L-Ascorbic Acid vitamin C and ferulic acid plus algae, kakadu plum, finger lime extract and lemon myrtle water extracts. “This is an amazingly priced formulation in a pump bottle. It has really brightened and evened out some red patches on my face,” one five star review reads. SHOP HEREPaula’s Choice C15 Super Booster, Paula’s Choice, $72Designed to dramatically brighten uneven skin while improving the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, the Super Booster from Paula’s Choice is another great pick with hundreds of glowing reviews. Containing a highly concentrated form of 15 per cent vitamin C, skin-stabilising antioxidants including vitamin E and ferulic acid, and skin-smoothing peptides, it aims to improve uneven skin tones, brighten dull complexion and ward off environmental five-star reviewer said that if you’re patient enough to wait for the results, you’ll absolutely be rewarded “Wonderful! Skin is brighter, former, texture is even and soft. Absolutely in my top three favourite skincare products along with retinol and sunscreen. I recommend you give this product some time before making a decision or writing a review. L-ascorbic acid serums take at least two months for you to get full benefits from it, until then it is quite normal to get some breakouts and irritation but stick through it! It’s worth it”.SHOP HEREBiossance Squalane + vitamin C Dark Spot Serum, Sephora, $99A targeted treatment to add brightness and address pigmentation, this Biossance serum features a unique white shiitake mushroom extract blended with a vitamin C derivative to help you achieve “quicker, more powerful, longer-lasting results”. It won’t just make your dark spots disappear quickly – it’ll stop new ones from forming, reviewer sung its praises highly, commenting, “Holy grail serum! I have been using this serum for about 3 weeks and noticed such an improvement! My dark spots are lighting and my skin is brighter. It has also improved my acne”.SHOP HEREBEST VITAMIN C SERUM FOR DRY SKINElizabeth Arden vitamin C Ceramide Capsules Radiance Renewal Serum 30 Piece, THE ICONIC, $85 If you’re one of those people who are constantly unsure if they’re using the right amount of serum then this is the product for you. Elizabeth Arden’s vitamin C comes in 30 single use biodegradable capsules meaning you’ll always dispense the right amount of product. Each capsule contains high potency vitamin C to brighten skin as well as ceramides to stop moisture loss. SHOP HERE MCoBeauty Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid & vitamin C Face Serum, MCoBeauty, $35This affordable serum has got everything you need for bright and hydrated skin. Ingredients include hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, vitamin C rich kakadu plum as well as hibiscus extract for your best skin yet. “A great serum, a little goes a long way with this stuff,” one five star review reads. “My skin feels so good after applying. It soaks in really nicely and makes my skin feel smooth and soft.”SHOP HEREPro-Collagen Vitamin Serum, JS Health, $ case you missed it, JS Health don’t just sell supplements, they also create efficacious skincare. One of their most popular products is the Pro-Collagen Vitamin lightweight formulation is packed with all the ingredients you need to brighten and hydrate your skin. Vitamin C is used to fix uneven skin tone, while hyaluronic acid is included to hydrate and plump your Pro-Collagen Vitamin Serum is vegan, Australian made and suitable for all skin HEREWHO SHOULD USE A VITAMIN C SERUM?There are vitamin C serums targeted at just about every skin concern, but according to Dr Ginni, “anyone concerned with skin ageing fine lines, wrinkles, skin dullness, sun damage causing skin cancers or pigmentation would benefit from using vitamin C”.HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE VITAMIN C SERUM TO WORK?It can take a few weeks for your skin to process the change in your routine, so be patient.“Epidermal turnover time is the time taken for the epidermis to replace itself. The epidermis turns over approximately every 48 days and the turnover time increases as we age,” explains Dr Ginni.“For this reason it will take time to see effects. Plus giving vitamin C the entire job of correcting skin brightness, fine lines and wrinkles is a huge ask. We suggest combining it with niacinamide, vitamin A and Alpha Hydroxy Acids AHAs for best effects. We find our customers will have better FEELING skin within a week, but you will start to SEE changes in three weeks. Pigmentation takes much longer – usually months.”CAN YOU USE VITAMIN C SERUM EVERYDAY?Yes, you can use vitamin C serum everyday. “There is evidence from trials in using it once daily, especially in the morning where it works to prevent sun damage. There is no evidence for using it more often than that,” says Dr Ginni.“As a serum, it is your thinnest product so would be applied straight after cleansing. Your SPF product should be applied last. Any other products you want to use will slot neatly between the two!”More CoverageWhile you’re here, check out our guide to the best anti-ageing facial creams for every stage of life. Plus, we found the best hyaluronic acids from affordable to don’t miss Coupons page for all the best discounts on top brands including Sephora and Adore Beauty. The best vitamin C serums are like a tall glass of freshly squeezed orange juice for your skin. The potent antioxidant hydrates, addresses hyperpigmentation and evens your complexion, leaving your skin bright and glowy case in point our best overall pick SkinCeuticals’ C E Ferulic, which does just that. “Antioxidants like vitamin C are super important for the skin,” says Dr. Rachel Pritzker, dermatologist at Chicago Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology. “They eat up free radicals, which are the junk molecules caused by exposure to pollution and UV rays.” Not only do they help protect against environmental stressors and inhibit melanin production pairing them with a good sunscreen helps too, vitamin C serums also work to hydrate just as well as a hyaluronic acid serum and stimulate collagen. Say it with us fewer unsightly spots—more radiance. The best vitamin C serums deliver on complexion-boosting benefits—and are totally worth the hype. Illustration Forbes / Photo Retailers Whether you’ve got dry skin, acne-prone skin, significant hyperpigmentation also read dark spot correctors or another issue you’re most focused on, there’s a version out there that will be the best fit for you. When putting together our list, we considered factors such as price point, effectiveness, ability to cater to different skin types and ease of use. Read on for our expert-approved picks for vitamin C serums. Best Vitamin C Serum Overall SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Best Vitamin C Serum For Acne-Prone Skin LaRoche-Posay Vitamin C Serum Best Affordable Vitamin C Serum The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2% Best Vitamin C Serum For Combination Skin Sunday Riley CEO 15% Vitamin C Brightening Serum Best Drugstore Vitamin C Serum L’Oreal Revitalift Derm Intensives Vitamin C Serum Best Vitamin C Serum For Hyperpigmentation Revision C+ Correcting Complex 30% Best Vitamin C Serum For Oily Skin Ole Henriksen Banana Bright 15% Vitamin C Serum Best Vitamin C Serum For Sensitive Skin Supergoop Daily Dose Hydra-Ceramide Boost + SPF 40 Best Vitamin C Serum For Darker Skin Tones Hyper Skin Hyper Clear Brightening Clearing Vitamin C Serum Best Vitamin C Serum For Dry Skin Biossance Squalane And Vitamin C Rose Oil Best Vegan Vitamin C Serum TruSkin Vitamin C Serum Editor’s PickDermstoreSkinCeuticals C E FerulicActive ingredients 15% L-ascorbic acid, 1% alpha-tocopherol, ferulic acid Additional benefits Improves appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, brightens complexion, reduces free radical damage Consistency Oil Cruelty-free No“This has been a gold standard in the industry for many years and still is a dermatology favorite,” says Pritzker. “Many companies are doing more research to back up the efficacy of their vitamin C formulations, but this was the first to show us great data.” SkinCeuticals’ version evens pigmentation and fights environmental aging using high concentrations of three dream team antioxidants vitamin C 15% pure L-ascorbic acid, vitamin E 1% alpha tocopherol, and ferulic acid. They work in conjunction to minimizes dark spots, fight future UVA/UVB damage, alleviate inflammation and neutralize free radicals. The result? The word “youthful” will replace “tired” and “blotchy” when describing your report this was a game changer for improving texture and reducing the appearance of dark patches and acne scars. One user raves about the product. “C E Ferulic should be a staple in everyone’s skincare regimen. Seriously, even if you use nothing else besides a cleanser, this stuff truly is the fountain of youth,” she says. “The potency of this antioxidant proprietary blend has been proven over and over again through peer-reviewed research articles published in medical journals. It truly helps with everything.” One thing to note Some say this product has a somewhat stinky you’ll loveCombats photoagingStimulates collagenEvens skin toneKeep in mindUnpleasant smellExpensiveLa Roche-PosayLa Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C Face Serum Active ingredients 10% vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, salicylic acid Additional benefits Brightens skin, minimizes pores, hydrates and evens skin texture Consistency Serum Cruelty-free NoWake up blah skin, achieve a more youthful-looking glow and target uneven texture with this pure 10% vitamin C serum. It also contains hyaluronic acid and salicylic acid, a known acne fighter that also helps exfoliate and minimize the appearance of pores. Some users don’t love the dropper and say it’s hard to use, and many report that it can sometimes pill under you’ll loveNo sticky feelWorks well on sensitive skinKeep in mindDropper can be messyNot ideal for layering MOST POPULARULTA BeautyThe Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%Active ingredients L-ascorbic acid, vitamin C, squalane, hyaluronic acid Additional benefits Radiance-boosting, hydrating, smoothing Consistency Cream Cruelty-free YesFounded on the premise that good beauty products should be affordable, The Ordinary’s suspension offers high-impact ingredients at a low cost. With 23% L-ascorbic acid—paired with moisture-boosting hyaluronic acid—this product combats uneven tone, boosts radiance and gives an overall plumping effect. The texture, however, can be divisive. It’s somewhat watery but also has a gritty feel, almost like an exfoliant. The right play here may be to use this one before bed, because when I tried to wear it under makeup, it pilled. Some reviewers say that it tingles when first applied although this didn’t happen to me, so it may not be ideal for sensitive skin. What you’ll loveHigh concentrationLow costKeep in mindTexture may bother some usersNot ideal under makeupSunday RileySunday Riley CEO 15% Vitamin C Brightening SerumActive ingredients Glycolic acid, vitamin C Additional benefits Fights signs of aging, minimizes redness, supports natural skin turnover Consistency Cream Cruelty-free YesIf your skin feels dull after a long winter, you’re not alone. This popular serum—which glides on like a light moisturizer—brightens skin, targets dark spots and reduces the appearance of fine lines. Its star ingredient is oil-soluble tetrahexyldecyl THD ascorbate, a type of vitamin C that absorbs quickly. Other standouts in this cruelty-free formulation Phytosterols reduce signs of skin sensitivity—such as redness—and make skin supple, and saccharide isomerate acts as a pore minimizer. Think of this as an IRL smartphone filter it evens tone, smooths skin and boosts radiance. Unlike some funky vitamin C serums, this one has a subtle, refreshing citrusy scent that users, including myself, love. “I have very sensitive, acne prone skin that is super difficult to treat because most products cause a reaction on my face—and I love this,” says one reviewer. “I love the texture; it’s super hydrating and the glow is real. The smell is so pleasant; it smells like an orange dreamsicle, but it’s very light and doesn’t linger. Absolutely zero burn, sting, tingles or anything.” Some reviewers feel that while this serum brightened their skin immediately, it took time to see additional you’ll loveNo greasy residueCruelty-freeKeep in mindTakes time to see resultsAmazonL'Oréal Revitalift Derm Intensives Vitamin C SerumActive ingredients Hyaluronic acid, retinol, vitamin C Additional benefits Hydrating, wrinkle reducing Consistency Gel Cruelty-free NoThis formulation features 10% pure vitamin C in conjunction with hydrating hyaluronic acid. Together, they work to reduce wrinkles, even skin tone and make dark spots and pores less noticeable. While some serums leave behind a greasy feel, I am a fan of this one’s powdery finish, which is similar to that of a primer. The lower concentration compared to some competitors’ is sort of a catch-22 It’s less potent than others with higher concentrations of vitamin C, but at the same time it may be better tolerated by new users or those with sensitive skin. One user says, “I have seen amazing results Fine lines disappear and dark spots and pores are clearer and much smaller. Just an overall transformation.” Fans also love that it does well underneath other skin products, including moisturizers, SPF and makeup, and it doesn’t have a smelly odor. What you’ll loveLow costTypically well-toleratedKeep in mindLower concentration of vitamin CDermstoreRevision Skincare C+ Correcting Complex 30%Active ingredients 30% THD ascorbic acid, vitamin C, vitamin E Additional benefits Protects against blue light and urban dust, supports skin’s microbiome, brightens and evens skin tone, improves fine lines Consistency Cream Cruelty-free Yes“This is one of my very favorite serums, and it’s a cult favorite,” says Pritzker. “It has 30% THD ascorbic acid which is not only some of the highest percentage on the market, but it’s extremely stable. The airless pump ensures that the vitamin C will not oxidize. It protects against blue light and urban dust and supports the skin’s microbiome.” Revision’s seemingly tireless serum brightens and evens skin tone, improves fine lines, helps correct damage and acts as armor to defend against future free-radical damage. Another plus it’s a lightweight cream formula, which works well for all skin types, says you’ll loveHigh concentration of vitamin CLightweight feelKeep in mindExpensiveCruelty-FreeSephoraOle Henriksen Banana Bright 15% Vitamin C SerumActive ingredients 15% vitamin C, 5% PHAs, hyaluronic acid Additional benefits Brightens skim, smooths texture, improves firmness and elasticity Consistency Serum Cruelty-free YesMany vitamin C serums require some time before you can see results, but this vegan and cruelty-free serum promises brighter, bouncier skin in just one week. It contains a core trifecta of hardworking ingredients 15% vitamin C to improve elasticity and reduce the look of dark spots, pores and wrinkles; 5% PHAs polyhydroxy acids to exfoliate and even skin tone; and hyaluronic acid to hydrate and plump skin. And something else that’s fun This serum boasts “banana powder-inspired pigments” that promise to instantly illuminate and color correct. So basically, it’s equal parts glowy concealer and a time machine for your skin. Reviewers love the smell, say it absorbs quickly and like that it wears well underneath other products. However, some report that it leaves behind a tacky you’ll lovePromises results in as early as one weekMulti-tasking formula also color correctsTargets hyperpigmentation and elasticityKeep in mindCan feel stickySephoraSupergoop Daily Dose Hydra-Ceramide Boost + SPF 40Active ingredients 10% vitamin C, 2% kakadu plum extract, 2% niacinamide Additional benefits UV protection, radiance-boosting, tone-evening, hydrating Consistency Serum Cruelty-free YesThis SPF-meets-serum formulation is, as the name suggests, a combination of powerhouse SPF and toning vitamin C. This two-in-one product works double duty, saving you your beauty budget, time and valuable counter space. Non-comedogenic thanks to a slew of natural ingredients like ceramides for moisture, squalene for immediate hydration, hyaluronic acid for long-term hydration and kakadu plum combats acne scars and brightens skin, this protective serum is also gentle enough for daily use even on sensitive skin you’ll loveBuilt-in UV protectionBoosts radianceCombats acne scarsKeep in mindChemical SPFMatte finishRevolveHyper Skin Hyper Clear Brightening Clearing Vitamin C Serum Active ingredients Vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, kojic acid Additional benefits Lightens dark spots, combats dullness, smooths texture Consistency Serum Cruelty-free YesBlack-owned brand Hyper Skin’s Hyper Clear Serum is a vitamin C formula that caters to all skin types and tones, including melanated skin. Fruit enzymes and kojic acid tackle hyperpigmentation, while 15% vitamin C and vitamin E work together to brighten skin, target fine lines and smooth rough texture. Finally, anti-inflammatory turmeric and salicylic acid less than 1% work to heal and prevent future you’ll loveHeals and prevents future breakoutsNon-stickyWorks on all skin tonesKeep in mindA little goes a long waySephoraBiossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose OilActive ingredients Vitamin C, sugarcane-derived squalane Additional benefits Hydrates and makes skin glow, improves loss of firmness and elasticity Consistency Oil Cruelty-free YesThis is an oil, not a serum, but we felt it worth mentioning. From clean beauty brand Biossance, this product features THD ascorbate, the oil-soluble, stable form of vitamin C that is typically easier to tolerate than straight L-ascorbic acid. Its other star ingredients are sugarcane-derived squalane and chios crystal oil, which work to lock in moisture and increase skin firmness. One issue with many oils and serums is that they leave behind a greasy residue, but this hydrator seems to absorb in just a few minutes. Still, bear in mind, less is more—you only need a few drops to improve skin radiance. Unlike some other vitamin C products, this one has a nice, light rose smell, and it works well under makeup without pilling. Reviewers report that it fades acnes scars and spots and visibly brightens dull skin, leaving you with a youthful you’ll loveLayers well under makeupUnlikely to cause irritationOil-based for added moistureKeep in mindSome find it too greasy Cruelty-FreeAmazonTruSkin Vitamin C SerumActive ingredients Vitamin C, vitamin E, sodium ascorbyl phosphate Additional benefits Radiance-boosting, texture smoothing Consistency Oil Cruelty-free YesResurrect your complexion with this high-performance blend—featuring vitamin C sodium ascorbyl phosphate, a water-soluble form, vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, and anti-inflammatory MSM methylsulfonylmethane. It promises to brighten, reduce hyperpigmentation and promote elasticity to revitalize tired-looking skin. In particular, its five-star reviewers there are more than 65,000 of them rave about its ability to reduce dark spots and redness, decrease breakouts and minimize pore size. One fan of the product says, “Since adding this vitamin C serum to my morning and evening skincare routine, I have noticed that my complexion appears clearer and brighter. Discolorations from the sun on my forehead have faded almost completely after four weeks.”You just need three to five drops of this serum applied after cleansing, and it works well with or without makeup. Another standout feature for TruSkin reviewers say this company’s customer service is you’ll loveAffordableReduces dark spotsWorks well under makeupKeep in mindSome say it can cause dryness Why Trust Forbes Vetted As seasoned beauty reporters and skincare devotees ourselves, the Forbes Vetted team members who assembled, edited and continue to update this roundup know what it takes to find the best vitamin C serums for various skin types. Senior beauty editor Jane Sung has more than a decade of experience covering the beauty industry and conducting product testing and extensive research. We also enlisted the help of a dermatologist, Dr. Rachel Prizker for her take on key formulations, ingredients and the most important things to consider in this category. Having produced a variety of stories focused on skincare ingredients and topics, we also tapped into our deep market knowledge to highlight products and brands that offer innovative, effective formulas. How We Chose The Best Vitamin C Serums Of 2022 We’ve done extensive research, getting staffer recommendations and sifting through reputable and expert-approved brands. We dug into key ingredients of our top picks to ensure the inclusion of formulas that cater to a variety of skin types and preferences. We’ve also tested many of these vitamin C serums ourselves, noting details for users to keep in mind, from fragrance to texture. This article is routinely updated so that availability, prices and reviewer ratings stay relevant and up to date. We also re-evaluate our product picks to ensure that they’re still some of the best choices in their categories. This story was last updated in February 2023. How To Choose A Vitamin C Serum Vitamin C is one of those antioxidants that’s especially compelling because it has so much potential to deliver complexion-enhancing results. There are many factors to consider when looking for the best vitamin C serum. “Choosing the right one can be tricky,” says Pritzker. “Beyond the efficacy of the [ingredient], it’s important to find a formula that works with your skin.” Clinical Data “There are many factors that go into formulating an effective vitamin C because it can be hard to stabilize,” says Pritzker. “These factors include pH, concentration and other ingredients. It’s important to make sure that the manufacturer has clinical data to back up its claims.” Ingredients Not all of them are created equal. Certain formulations offer higher concentrations, or they’re coupled with other star ingredients that give major benefits. Companies use various forms of vitamin C in their formulations, and the two most common are L-ascorbic acid and THD ascorbate. L-ascorbic acid is 100% pure vitamin C. It’s water-soluble, well-researched and effective, but extremely unstable. It begins to oxidize and change color over time and can be irritating to some people’s skin. Tetrahexyldecyl THD ascorbate is stable and fat soluble, so it can be used in oil-based products. It tends to be well tolerated and permeates the skin easily. Separately, vitamin E and ferulic acid are ideal antioxidants to be paired with vitamin C, according to Pritzker. Hyaluronic acid and squalane can also be vehicles within various vitamin C serums as well. Formulation “Vitamin C products have different vehicles that may or may not agree with your skin. There are creams, serums, oils, and depending on these factors some skin types react differently than others,” says Pritzker. Serums, for their part, are typically characterized by highly concentrated ingredients that penetrate deep within the skin. Packaging Because vitamin C is often an unstable ingredient and can start to oxidize in the presence of light, heat and air, it’s a good idea to seek out serums with dark, opaque packaging. If the formula itself has turned brown, it has lost its potency. Which Brand Of Vitamin C Serum Is Best? When it comes to skincare, choosing a formula largely depends on your skin type, goals and budget. Luckily, the vitamin C serum category runs the gamut in ingredient concentration, price point and consistency. Identifying the right concentration for your skin type will determine how effective your serum will be, and starting slow could help ease your skin into this new regimen. Consider starting with a lower dose of 10% before increasing to 15% or 20%. Additionally, if you have normal or oily skin, consider using L-ascorbic acid, the most potent form of vitamin C—found in our best overall pick, SkinCeuticals’ C E Ferulic. However, if your skin is dry or sensitive, opt for magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, a water-soluble vitamin C, which can be less irritating. Do Dermatologists Recommend Vitamin C Serum? The results for vitamin C speak for themselves. “From clinical data as well as anecdotal evidence, we know that it works,” says Pritzker. “You can start to appreciate the results of a topical vitamin C in as little as a month.” If your skin is dull or lackluster, vitamin C is the gold standard of brightening ingredients because of its ability to inhibit the production of pigmentation, even skin tone and fade dark spots. When applied topically, the potent antioxidant neutralizes free radical damage and protects the skin against UV light and other environmental aggressors. And while it’s best known for brightening, it also promotes the synthesis of collagen, the protein that builds your skin structure. This makes vitamin C instrumental in firming and preventing the loss of elasticity, as well as the healing of acne wounds. What’s The Best Way To Use Vitamin C In Your Skincare Routine? Experts recommend using it as a first step. “As with most actives, I recommend using a vitamin C after cleansing but before non-active topicals,” says Pritzker. “So you should use it before you moisturize and always before SPF, which you should be using every day. We typically recommend using it in the morning.” It can also be used daily, “as long as it is tolerated well and not irritating the skin or causing an adverse reaction,” says Pritzker. However, if you’re new to the vitamin C serum scene, it may be best to start at a lower concentration or apply it less frequently because it can cause irritation. “You should not use vitamin C on compromised skin,” she says. You also need to be cautious using it with other actives, such as retinol. For even more great deals on skincare products, check out Forbes Coupons. You can find big discounts from retailers like Sephora, Ulta and Skinceuticals. For your skincare regime to be really effective, you need supercharged ingredients – like vitamin C. This powerful antioxidant does a myriad of things. It protects skin from damaging free radicals the result of UV exposure, stimulates collagen production making skin look plump and combats hyperpigmentation, dark spots and dullness without altering skin’s natural tone though make sure you use sunscreen. I rate all the products on this page. SkinCeuticals is the original, and still one of the best. Dr Sturm’s formula includes zinc, which helps vitamin C better absorb into the skin. Drunk Elephant is created sans essential oils, alcohols and other ingredients some might find harsh. StriVectin’s formula incorporates retinol without irritation. Both Glow Recipe and Sunday Riley deliver brightening with a capital B. Ole Henriksen includes hyaluronic acid for increased hydration. Biossance is also brilliant for drier skin. Clinicbe, a wonderful new discovery, delivers rapid results. And yes, MZ Skin is expensive but it will give you expensive Sunday Riley CEO Rapid Flash Brightening Serum £70, 2. Dr Barbara Sturm The Good C Vitamin C Serum £110, 3. StriVectin Super C Retinol Vitamin C Serum £62, 4. Drunk Elephant C-Firma Day Serum £67, 5. Glow Recipe Pineapple-C Bright Serum £46, 6. MZ Skin Brighten & Perfect Serum £250, 7. Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Vitamin C Serum £53, SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic £145, 9. Clinicbe Be Vitalised Vitamin C Serum £48, 10. Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum £56, Funmi on Twitter FunmiFetto We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. InStyle / Reese Herrington Vitamin C is a hero skincare ingredient The powerful antioxidant boasts a slew of benefits ranging from brightening your complexion to boosting hydration and fading dark spots. Looking for a literal glow-up? Vitamin C is your answer. The ingredient is best incorporated into your routine via serums — the step that comes post-toner and pre-moisturizer. Once you know the ins and outs of what to look for when choosing a product and how exactly to use it, it’s a simple addition to your skincare regimen that’ll provide long-lasting nourishment and visible results. Because Vitamin C is an active ingredient, it works best in high concentrations that deliver potency and freshness, which is why it’s important to seek out a quality formula. The good news? You don’t have to spend much time searching for one because we’ve done the work for you. Our team of editors and beauty experts spent six weeks meticulously testing 33 of the most popular vitamin C serums on the market, reporting back with their findings on each product’s ease of use, absorption, value, and how it made their skin look overall. It was a tough job, but we ultimately narrowed our list down to 14 favorites. Overall, we found that L'Oréal Paris Revitalift Vitamin C Serum is an incredible, affordable option that brightens and tightens skin, and provides enduring radiance. Target Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Absorption 5/5 Skin Texture 5/5 Skin Glow Firming 5/5 What We Love The innovative metal tube packaging allows you to enjoy every last We Don’t Love The formula has a thick, paste-like consistency that can be tricky to spread but, don’t fret, it melts into the skin relatively quickly. A Vitamin C serum under $35 is hard to find, let alone one potent and efficacious enough to earn itself our best overall prize. Simply put, we were blown away by this L’Oréal product. “I’ve paid this much for other Vitamin C serums that were half as effective,” our tester says. “I was actually shocked by how much brighter and firmer my face started to look after just a few days. It’s given my skin a plumper, more awake’ appearance. I even feel like I can wear less makeup while still looking put-together.” Overall, we noticed longer lasting radiance effects with this serum than comparable products, and especially love the metal tube packaging yay, sustainability! that keeps the formula fresh, dispenses just the right amount of product, and allows you to squeeze out the very last drop. Just be warned, if you’re into thinner serums, you might not love the texture It is a bit thicker, but rest assured it melts into the skin relatively quickly. Price at time of publish $18 originally $33 Size oz. Benefits Brightens and firms Skin Type Safe for all skin types including sensitive skin InStyle/Samantha Jones Amazon Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Absorption 5/5 Skin Texture 5/5 Skin Glow 4/5 Firming 4/5 What We Love For $15, you’ll enjoy visibly firmer, more radiant skin after just a few We Don’t Love If you’re not a fan of scent, this product has a subtle grapefruit aroma. This Yes To serum uses a mixture of grapefruit and vitamin C to brighten and firm. Meanwhile, polyhydroxy acids act as a gentle exfoliating agent better for sensitive skin than commonly used alpha hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids that smooths skin and evens out texture. “After just a few days, I noticed improvements to my overall skin texture. And after daily use for several weeks, my skin feels softer, more even, and radiant,” shares one of our testers. With a $15 price-tag, this serum can be a no-brainer for those curious about incorporating vitamin C into their routines. The formula is fast-absorbing and ultra lightweight no sticky residue here, and perfect for an instant skin-brightening boost. That said, it does have a subtle grapefruit scent — we think it adds to the overall experience, but understand that not everyone enjoys skincare products with fragrance. Price at time of publish $15 Size oz. Benefits Brightens, firms, exfoliates Skin Type Dry InStyle / Allison Vancura InStyle / Allison Vancura InStyle / Allison Vancura Bluemercury Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Absorption 5/5 Skin Texture 5/5 Skin Glow 5/5 Firming What We Love This is a rare product that actually lives up to the hype yes, it really smoothed our tester’s fine lines. What We Don’t Love Weirdly enough, this smells like boiled hot dog water there’s no added fragrance, but the aroma fades as soon as it’s applied. This Skinceuticals serum consistently finds itself at the top of best vitamin C’ lists — it's arguably the most famous product in the category. And with outsized hype like that, we tend to be wary. But this is one of those rare instances where the formula truly delivers. “Whenever a product is really promoted, I’m always a little critical and hesitant to love it. But this one really is worth it,” admits our tester. “Not only is it brightening and 'glow-ifying,’ but it smoothes fine lines and the texture of my skin. I’ve used vitamin C daily in my routine for eight years, so I wasn’t expecting a huge benefit with this. But during the six-week test, I ended up seeing a difference. Everything is a bit smoother and softer,” she adds. The antioxidant-rich liquid formula quickly absorbs into the skin, and protects it from environmental stressors and signs of aging, while providing a long-lasting radiant glow. Don’t be alarmed if the product smells like hot dogs upon opening this is normal. While it’s not the most enjoyable aroma, it quickly fades after application. Price at time of publish $169 Size 1 oz. Benefits Brightens, firms, smooths fine lines Skin Type Safe for all skin types including sensitive skin InStyle/Shannon Bauer Amazon Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Absorption 5/5 Skin Texture 4/5 Skin Glow 5/5 Firming 4/5 What We Love While this serum’s immediate results are nice, our tester noticed an actual improvement in the brightness of her skin after several weeks of consistent use. What We Don’t Love It’s another formula with a slightly odd smell — our tester describes it like “bacon,” but insists it fades quickly upon application. Drunk Elephant C-Firma Fresh Vitamin C Day Serum is a little different than most It comes with a loose powder that needs to be mixed into the liquid formula before use. This may sound mildly confusing, but we promise it’s super simple, plus, the extra step goes a long way in preserving the freshness and potency of the product’s ingredients. “The instructions are very clear and easy to follow,” says our tester, who raves about the serum’s benefits. “I started to notice a significantly brighter glow to my skin around three to four weeks of use. I’d catch myself in the mirror and think, wow, my skin looks so bright and smooth!’ And since using it, I’ve even received a few comments about how good my skin looks,” she says. We love the fast-absorbing, lightweight feel, and recommend it for visible, proven results. Similar to other vitamin C products, this has an interesting, meaty scent our tester compares it to bacon. Fret not, because this smell dissipates a few seconds after application. Price at time of publish $78 Size oz. Benefits Brightens, firms, smoothes texture, fades dark spots Skin Type All Julia Sayers_Gokhale Amazon Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Absorption 5/5 Skin Texture 5/5 Skin Glow 4/5 Firming 3/5 What We Love This serum uses potent green tangerine extract to specifically target dark spots and post-acne hyperpigmentation. What We Don’t Love This beloved K-beauty brand is hard to find at retailers other than Amazon. While Vitamin C is widely utilized as a brightening agent, it's not true that all vitamin C serums actually reduce dark spots across the board. This antioxidant-rich formula from cult-favorite K-beauty brand Goodal specifically targets hyperpigmentation and discoloration with a skin-loving mix of green tangerine extract, niacinamide, and green tea extracts. “My dark spots have definitely started to fade,” shares our tester. “And, my skin looks healthier and brighter overall, with a more even tone. I’ve noticed a big difference since starting to use this product,” she adds. Plus, the tangerine scent offsets vitamin C’s typical foul odor and gives this serum a pleasant, soothing experience. Price at time of publish $24 Size oz. Benefits Evens texture and fades dark spots Skin Type Safe for all skin types, including sensitive skin Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Absorption 5/5 Skin Texture 4/5 Skin Glow 4/5 Firming 3/5 What We Love It’s clinically proven to tighten skin and improve elasticity in under four We Don’t Love This dropper can be a bit finicky, so it takes a few tries to get the right amount of serum out. With over 8,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, we were immediately intrigued by this ROC serum. The product is widely beloved for its supreme moisturization and superior anti-aging benefits, and after trying it out during our six week trial, we couldn’t agree more. “My skin feels smoother, more hydrated, and [more] elastic after adding this serum to my morning skincare routine. It does its job very effectively,” our tester says, adding that she’d happily re-purchase this serum once empty over other vitamin C products she’s used in the past. The formula is fast-absorbing with no oily or sticky residue, and is clinically proven to tighten skin and improve elasticity in under four weeks. Plus, we’d be remiss not to mention that the glass bottle feels fancy and looks pretty displayed on any counter. While this isn’t a major issue, the dropper can be a bit finicky — it will probably take a few tries for it to pull the optimal amount of serum. Once you get the hang of it, using this vitamin C is a breeze. Price at time of publish $33 Size 1 oz. Benefits Tightens, firms, brightens, reduces fine lines Skin Type Safe for sensitive skin and effective for maturing skin Katherine Polcari Sephora Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Absorption 5/5 Skin Texture 5/5 Skin Glow 5/5 Firming 3/5 What We Love This pick provides instant brightening results. What We Don’t Love The packaging doesn’t provide clear instruction on how many drops of product to use. Who doesn’t love an instant brightening boost? Whether a long weekend got the best of your skin or a poor night’s sleep left you looking dull, this Sephora Collection vitamin C serum will come to your rescue with fast-acting results. At less than $30, it’s an easy addition to your regular routine and feels like a steal for the high-quality, antioxidant-rich ingredients. We firmly believe that the in-house Sephora brand is a sleeper skincare hit. Upon application, you’ll notice an immediate dose of radiance that’ll wake tired skin. And, according to our tester, you’ll notice an improvement in your overall skin tone after only one week of use. “My skin looks brighter, healthier, refreshed, and dewy — even when I’m not wearing anything on top of it,” she says. Though this pick provides near instant results, don’t go overboard with the amount you use. There aren’t clear instructions as to how much you should use, but a good rule of thumb is to dispense three to five drops for your entire face. Price at time of publish $20 Size oz. Benefits Brightens and hydrates Skin Type Normal to Dry Cynthia Sanz Target Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Absorption 5/5 Skin Texture 5/5 Skin Glow 4/5 Firming 3/5 What We Love This formula’s creamy texture makes application easy and layers beautifully with other products. What We Don’t Love This has a citrus scent that can be irritating for those with sensitive skin. Olay is a trusty drugstore fallback that we count on for moisturizers, but the brand’s vitamin C serum is just as noteworthy. This creamy, lightweight serum packs a super glowy punch with vitamin C, vitamin B3, and lactic acid that hydrates for optimum radiance. “My skin looks better after using this serum, both in the short-term and long-term,” says our tester. “Immediately after applying, I noticed a glow and firmness. After continued use, I feel my skin is brighter, softer, and more hydrated.” She notes that in the short-term, the immediate glow fades after a few hours, but that the serum is working to improve overall skin tone over time. Bonus points? It performs great under makeup, creating an extra smooth base layer. While this pick doesn’t smell like hot dogs a win! it does have an added citrusy scent, so if you prefer fragrance-free formulas you may want to look someplace else. Price at time of publish $33 Size oz. Benefits Radiance, Glow, Evening skin tone, Hydration Skin Type All Nicole Harris Amazon Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Absorption 4/5 Skin Texture 5/5 Skin Glow 5/5 Firming 3/5 What We Love This serum is hydrating, glow-inducing, and friendly to acne-prone We Don’t Love This formula contains jojoba oil — so, take note if you’ve had an allergic reaction to the ingredient. Experimenting with serums can be tricky for the acne-prone — adding in too many different oils can cause blockage and breakouts. But, we fell hard for this TruSkin serum because its mix of ingredients form the perfect balance of purifying aloe vera and Vitamin E, hydrating hyaluronic acid, and brightening vitamin C results. “As someone prone to acne, I love that this product doesn’t cause breakouts or clog my pores,” says our tester. “I’m way more confident in stepping outside without makeup. I took a selfie after a 13 hour flight and my bare skin still looked bright and glowy,” she says, adding that she’s noticed her sun spots and acne scars fading since beginning use. And an added benefit? For oily skin, this hydration-packed serum suffices as a moisturizer, reducing the need for another step. “It’s impressive that I can use this serum alone without a moisturizer and have soft, supple skin.” Price at time of publish $30 Size 1 oz. Benefits Brightens, fades dark spots, hydrates Skin Type Combination, Oily, and Acne-Prone Emily Cieslak Sephora Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Absorption 5/5 Skin Texture 4/5 Skin Glow 5/5 Firming 4/5 What We Love This oil creates such a serious glow, you won’t even need foundation. What We Don’t Love If you have oily skin, this could make you look a little greasy. First things first, this product is more of a true oil than it is a serum. So, if you’ve got oily skin, we wouldn’t recommend it. That being said, for dry or even normal skin, using this oil is a quick way to achieve major glow. “I have never gotten as many compliments on my skin’s glowiness than I do when I wear this,” says our tester. “I think this makes my skin look extra plump, like I’ve had a really good night of sleep. With this product, I usually go without foundation because it makes my skin look that nice and healthy.” For dry skin or cold-weather climates, the squalane in this formula works to lock in moisture and provide long-lasting hydration, while rose oil and chios crystal oil improve firmness and boost radiance. Price at time of publish $74 Size oz. Benefits Boosts radiance, hydrates Skin Type Dry Madison Yauger Maelove What We Love This is an excellent dupe for more expensive options on the market, with seriously glowy effects. What We Don’t Love The bottle is on the small side, but a little goes a long way. Maelove is a beloved indie skincare brand known for using the highest-end ingredients without the luxury retail markups. We’ve heard excellent things about their Glow Maker serum for some time and were excited to finally conduct our own test. “So! Much! Glow!” were our tester’s exact words. “I was very impressed. This gave my skin the brightening boost it needed. It looks very hydrated and dewy without appearing greasy.” With an impactful mix of vitamin C, vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, and ferulic acid, you’ll be receiving long-lasting moisturization and skin-smoothing nourishment. Keep in mind, because Maelove uses a potent 15% vitamin C active, the brand advises using up your serum within three months of opening doable, considering it’s not the biggest bottle. Price at time of publish $30 Size 1 oz. Benefits Brightens, boosts radiance, hydrates Skin Type All Chloe Anello Sephora Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Absorption 5/5 Skin Texture 5/5 Skin Glow 5/5 Firming What We Love The pump bottle packaging makes application easy and mess-free, while protecting the product’s We Don’t Love Some online reviewers report the formula pilling under other skincare and makeup products, though we did not experience that. Tired skin looking a little saggy and dull? This OleHenriksen serum will bring back your radiance with its plumping, firming, and brightening ingredients. Plus, with 5 percent polyhydroxy acids, it’ll work to gently exfoliate dead skin cells and restore a smooth texture with boosted elasticity. “My skin looks glowy, hydrated, and refreshed,” says our tester. “I’m excited to keep using it and see even longer-lasting effects.” While some online reviews note an adverse scent and trouble layering with other skincare and makeup products, we didn’t have that experience. “It smells amazing and layers really well with my other skincare products,” our tester mentions. While your own experience may come down to personal preferences, it's undeniable that this highly-concentrated, antioxidant-rich plumping serum is packed full of nourishing goodness. Price at time of publish $71 Size 1 oz. Benefits Brightens, evens texture, plumps Skin Type All Ivy Ford Klur Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Absorption 5/5 Skin Texture 5/5 Skin Glow 5/5 Firming 5/5 What We Love At age 63, our tester felt a noticeable difference in her skin’s overall firmness and smoothness after incorporating this product into her We Don’t Love The bottle is very small, but a little really does go a long way — one pump is all you’ll need. Another small-batch indie beauty fave, Klur is known for their high-powered vegan ingredients, sustainable California-based production practices, and beautifully-crafted products. We’re particularly drawn to the Brilliant Light serum for its potent vitamin C concentrate 20 percent and rosehip seed combo that works to repair and protect the skin barrier and impart the most natural glow. “At 63, I honestly do feel like my skin is firmer, and I’ve seen an improvement in my skin’s texture It’s softer, smoother, and more hydrated,” says our tester. The amber glass bottle, though fragile, keeps out UV light, protecting the formula’s potency, and maintaining freshness for longer. Though the bottle is small, one pump is more than enough to cover your entire face, leaving your skin radiant and refreshed. Price at time of publish $22 Size 1 oz. Benefits Brightens, firms, hydrates Skin Type Safe for all skin types, including sensitive skin Sephora Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Absorption 5/5 Skin Texture 5/5 Skin Glow 4/5 Firming 4/5 What We Love This serum does it all — from pore-clearing to dark-spot-fading, and everything in between. What We Don’t Love The product takes 30+ seconds to fully absorb. Be patient, it’s worth it. This InnBeauty formula is a cross between a serum and an oil — it’s lightweight, but has a jelly-like consistency that takes some time to fully absorb. For a moment of patience, you will be rewarded with massive glow points. Bursting with a complex blend of 15 super greens that promote collagen production, smooth fine lines, and fade dark spots, there’s not much this product can’t do. “My skin looks brighter, more even in tone, more firm, and less dull,” shares our tester. And to co-sign its multi-tasking wonders, she adds, “I also feel like it’s helped clear up clogged pores around my T-zone and fade some hyperpigmentation that I’ve had for years.” Convinced yet? You get all of this for $32 and a fuller bottle compared to other brands we tested, plus barrier-repair benefits like pollution and UV-blocking effects. Price at time of publish $32 Size 1 oz. Benefits Brightens, firms, smooths, reduces dark spots Skin Type All Other Options We Tested Paula’s Choice C15 Super Booster The consistency of this serum is quite liquidy, rendering it incredibly fast-absorbing and easy to incorporate into your existing routine. We recommend it for beginners looking to experiment with Vitamin C, as our tester enjoyed the product’s high-quality ingredients and overall glow boost, but didn’t feel as confident in its long-term abilities to actually improve the texture or firmness of her complexion. Alyssa Kaplan BeautyStat Universal C Skin Refiner Vitamin C Treatment Our tester experienced a purging period after beginning use of this product, noticing unexpected breakouts and blemishes in new spots. But, once her skin regulated to the formula, she noticed a decrease in dullness and improvement in glow, though she hoped to see more of a change in the fine lines around her forehead and eyes. If you take a slow and steady’ approach to skincare, this is a great pick for you. Samantha Stevenson Sunday Riley 15% Vitamin C Brightening Serum We love the brightening and skin-smoothing benefits of this serum, but for the steep price, we wish the packaging was more sturdy. Our tester ultimately wasn't impressed with the fragility of the packaging the glass bottle shattered from a short fall compared to similar products from other luxury brands. We recommend purchasing this if you treat your skincare like precious cargo — no one likes a shattered product. Our Testing Process We took 33 of the most popular vitamin C serums on the market and had our most knowledgeable editors and beauty obsessives put them to the test. Each product was sent to a different expert and incorporated into their routine for a minimum of six weeks. This timeline is especially important with a product like vitamin C serum as they often have immediate, short-term results, in addition to more advanced long-term benefits. After the trial period, our testers reported back with every last detail of their findings, keeping ease of use, absorption, overall skin look, and value top of mind. From there, we settled on the 14 best-performing formulas, plus three others we just couldn’t leave off the list. What to Keep in Mind Skin Type All skin types can benefit from vitamin C, though different products may work better for certain skin types over others. If you’re prone to dryness, look for formulas featuring other hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or squalane OLEHENRIKSEN Banana Bright 15% Vitamin C Serum and Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil are great options. Meanwhile, if you lean oily, TruSkin Naturals Vitamin C Serum or InnBeauty Project Green Machine Vitamin C + Green Superfoods Jelly Serum may just become your new best friend because they’re also designed with purifying ingredients to curb oil production and keep skin clear. And while most Vitamin C serums are safe for use on sensitive skin, why not be extra cautious and try one with pure, clean ingredients like Klur Brilliant Light or Skinceuticals C E Ferulic. Your Skin Concerns While Vitamin C serums are amazing, they can’t address every skin concern out there. Their main purpose is to brighten, hydrate, and fade dark spots. If you’re looking to seriously tackle fine lines and sagging skin, they may help especially if you select one formulated to improve elasticity, like ROC Multi Correxion Revive + Glow Daily Serum, but you’ll also want to seek out a richer moisturizer to use in conjunction. Serums and oils are lightweight and silky, which make them impactful for inducing glowiness, particularly when they’re jam-packed with antioxidants like Maelove The Glow Maker. If dark spots or hyperpigmentation are your main concerns, you’ll want to try ones proven to fade discoloration like Goodal Green Tangerine Vita C Dark Spot Serum+ or the Drunk Elephant C-Firma Fresh Vitamin C Day Serum. These are formulated with extra potent concentrations of the active to pinpoint discoloration. Texture Vitamin C serums are produced in varying textures and consistencies — from oils and gels to creams. Truthfully, it comes down to personal preference. Yes To Grapefruit Daily Brightening Serum is super lightweight and liquidy, while the Olay Vitamin C + Peptide 24 Serum has a creamier feel. If you’re prone to oily skin, stay away from a true oil like the Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil. Some formulas may be quicker to absorb than others, like Sephora Collection Glow + Strengthen Vitamin C Serum which melts into skin immediately. But don’t fear a denser texture, like L'Oréal Paris Revitalift Vitamin C Serum, just because it may be trickier to apply — it won our top honor for a reason. Your Questions, Answered What does vitamin C serum do? Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant ingredient that brightens and protects skin. “As an ingredient, vitamin C protects the cells of your skin from free radicals, which are molecules that are produced when your skin is exposed to harmful sources, like radiation from the sun,” says nurse practitioner and cosmetic expert Nicole Frontera. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Purvisha Patel, tacks onto this saying that vitamin C works to prevent free radicals from breaking down collagen and elastin, and it decreases the production of pigment ultimately fading dark spots, and leaves your skin feeling smoother and softer. When should I use vitamin C serum? “Vitamin C is best applied to dry, clean skin after you wash your face and before you apply your sunscreen,” says Dr. Patel. “It has been proven to be a good additive to your morning regimen before sunscreen, as it prevents damage caused by UV radiation.”. While celebrity esthetician at SkinLab, Joshua Ross agrees vitamin C is best applied in the morning, Frontera has a different take. “While vitamin C can be used both day and night, my favorite time to use it is at night because overnight is the time when we correct our skin,” she says. In short, you can use it either morning or night, but stick to once a day, otherwise you run the risk of causing irritation. Is it ok to use vitamin C serum everyday? Yes! “Some people can be sensitive to vitamin C serums and it’s recommended to start by using a small amount to see how your skin responds, such as one to two drops,” says Ross. “From there, you can increase up to three to five drops per day.” Additionally, if your skin is sensitive, it may not be able to tolerate a daily dose of a highly concentrated vitamin C. “While vitamin C serum is safe to use for most skin types, if you notice your skin feels too dry or starts peeling after use, then you may be allergic to an ingredient, or the concentration within may be too high,” explains Dr. Patel. If you experience any irritation, be sure to discontinue use and consult with your dermatologist on the best way to incorporate the ingredient into your routine. What are the disadvantages of using vitamin C serum? If a serum contains a very high concentration of vitamin C over 20 percent, according to Frontera, it’s normal to experience some sensitivity when adjusting to the new product, though it shouldn’t last long. “Higher concentrations will yield better results,” explains Frontera. “Purchase products that are medical grade, because the percentages and potency are higher, delivering more effective results over time.” Dr. Patel adds that multiple exfoliating agents like AHAs and retinol, in combination with vitamin C can cause irritation as well. She advises looking for formulas that use only one or two of these ingredients at a time to avoid any adverse reactions. Can you use a vitamin C serum if you’re acne-prone? According to Ross, vitamin C can be safe and beneficial for acne-prone skin. Though, he warns to “discontinue use if breakouts increase or sensitivity occurs.” Look for products specifically formulated for sensitive or acne-prone skin with soothing and balancing ingredients, like TruSkin Naturals Vitamin C Serum. What Is InStyle Picks? Did you notice the InStyle Picks seal of approval at the top of this story? That means our team of testers has reviewed every product on this list using a unique methodology to ensure it's really worth your time, money, and attention. We may get samples for free to try but we never promise positive or any! coverage in exchange. Put simply InStyle Picks are products we love, and we've put them to the test to be sure you will too. Why Shop With Us Linne Halpern is a freelance beauty, fashion, and lifestyle writer. She is a member of InStyle’s evergreen commerce team where she extensively researches and reviews countless products. For this story, dozens of beauty editors and product testers contributed real-world feedback on 33 different serums. Meanwhile, celebrity esthetician Joshua Ross of SkinLab, nurse practitioner and cosmetic expert Nicole Frontera of Nicole Frontera Beauty, and board-certified dermatologist Dr. Purvisha Patel of Visha Skincare all contributed expert commentary and ingredient knowledge. My recent recommendation for The Inkey List’s 15% Vitamin C and EGF serum £ for 30ml prompted many of you to get in touch, asking for some more affordable day serums. Before I oblige, it’s perhaps useful to explain why I unfailingly apply vitamin C each morning. A great vitamin C serum is good for everyone, of any age and skin type. It can help protect skin from environmental pollution and inflammation, and – in high concentrations – treat sun damage. It can increase the effectiveness of SPF and most visibly, from the get-go, brighten a dull complexion. The effect it has on my own skin is remarkable, especially as I tend to choose vitamin C serums that also contain ingredients such as hyaluronic acid for hydration and niacinamide for all manner of things, including the maintenance of a healthy skin barrier and even skin texture to get more punch for my yours needn’t cost a packet. I’m impressed with Bright Idea Vitamin C + Tri-Peptide Face Serum £ for 30ml from the newly resurrected Bliss spa brand absent from the UK market for the past few years. This is a lovely all-rounder – offering comforting, plumping hydration and immediate perk in a fine, refreshing liquid that doesn’t feel claggy for summer or smell off-putting, as vitamin C skincare is often disposed to be though those against fragrance in skincare should avoid this one. It feels and performs not unlike others I have at three times the price and suits any skin Chef’s Ginger Vitamin C Serum Shot £ for 30ml is less versatile, but near perfect for oily and combination types who may find that thick vitamin C serums cause breakouts. This is an altogether lighter affair, typical of Korean-style serums, which leaves skin hydrated but still relatively matte and unsheathed. As with many vitamin Cs, there’s a brief tingle on application, but things calm down to a healthy glow in a minute or bargain pick for dry skin is the excellent value Derma E Vitamin C Concentrated Serum £ 22 for 60ml. This squeaks over the £20 threshold, but it should be said that it is, in real terms, cheaper than everything else here. The texture, rich with vitamin E, aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, glycerin and fruit oils, borders on the oily, making for a comfortable ride under sunscreen, no extra moisturiser required. With all, I apply in the morning, after cleansing and using any exfoliating acids.

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