The Best Vitamin C Serums for Radiant, Even Skin, According to Dermatologists
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If TikTok first piqued your interest in skin care, chances are you’ve watched numerous videos telling you that vitamin C is a nonnegotiable in your routine. #VitaminCSerum has accumulated over 79 million views on the app, but after scrolling through hundreds of TikTok beauty products, you may still be wondering what the best vitamin C serums are. Before we dive into that (we have plenty of top-tier face serums for you to choose from), it’s important to know what the ingredient does and how it can benefit your skin.
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“Vitamin C is an essential antioxidant that the body cannot produce itself,” explains Dr. Ryan Turner, an NYC-based board-certified dermatologist and co-founder of TRNR Skin. “Even if you incorporate high levels of it into your diet through vitamin C-rich foods or supplements, topical application of vitamin C is more effective for the skin.” Due to its antioxidant properties, vitamin C enhances skin in a multitude of ways when applied topically. “Aside from improving the appearance of wrinkles, pores, and fine lines, it can also improve pigmentation and sun damage,” reveals Dr. Rachel Nazarian, a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist. (But that only scratches the surface on what vitamin C can do. More on those additional advantages later.)
Now you can’t just squeeze an orange on your face and expect wrinkles to disappear. There are specific types of vitamin C that are compatible with skin, and none of them act exactly the same. When looking for the best vitamin C serum, you may notice L-ascorbic acid and sodium ascorbyl phosphate in ingredient lists. These two are the most common forms of the antioxidant. “L-Ascorbic acid is the purest form of vitamin C, while sodium ascorbyl phosphate is a salt form of vitamin C that needs to be converted to Ascorbic acid in order to have an effect,” says Dr. Marisa Garshick, a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist and clinical assistant professor at Cornell. “The latter is more stable, so it is less likely to lose potency and can be more easily incorporated into skincare products.” Dr. Nazarian adds that Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate (also known as THD ascorbate) has become increasingly popular because of its stability and gentle nature.
According to Dr. Brooke Jeffy, board-certified dermatologist and founder of BTWN, everyone can incorporate a vitamin C serum into their regimen, regardless of their skin type and concerns. However, she says that those who deal with “dark spots related to melasma and sun damage or pigment changes related to acne” can experience extended benefits.
Vitamin C serums come in a vast range of textures, prices, and potencies, and some face serums are specially formulated to target particular skin woes, like dullness or hyperpigmentation. Formulations with higher potencies (around 15-20%) may be irritating to those with sensitive skin. If you fall into that boat, Dr. Kelly Reid, a board-certified dermatologist at West Lake Dermatology in Austin, TX recommends sticking with lower percentages (just like you would with retinol products) or seeking out serums made with sodium ascorbyl, one of the gentler forms of the antioxidant.
After sifting through customer reviews and bestsellers, consulting our experts, and testing an array of serums for ourselves, we created a comprehensive list of the 13 best vitamin C serums. The products featured below are suitable for a myriad of skin types, and can enhance radiance, diminish discoloration, and even out skin tones so you can feel confident about your complexion.
Top Vitamin C Serums
Best Affordable Option: La Roche-Posay 10% Pure Vitamin C Serum
Best Dermatologist-Recommended: SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic
Best for Acne Scars: Paula’s Choice 25% Vitamin C + Glutathione Clinical Serum
Best for Sensitive Skin: Vichy LiftActiv Vitamin C Serum
Best on Amazon: Andalou Naturals Turmeric + Vitamin C Enlighten Serum
Best for Hyperpigmentation: Tatcha Violet-C Brightening Serum 20% Vitamin C + 10% Aha
Best Lightweight Formula: Yon-Ka Vitamin C Serum
Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Supergoop! Daily Dose Vitamin C + Spf 40 Sunscreen Serum
Best for Redness: Sunday Riley CEO 15% Vitamin C Brightening Serum
Best for Dry Skin: Revision Skincare Vitamin C Lotion
Best for Oily Skin: Acure Brightening Vitamin C & Ferulic Serum
Best for Rosacea: Yse Beauty Morning Cocktail Vitamin C Serum
Best for Dark Spots: Drunk Elephant C-Firma Fresh Vitamin-C Day Serum
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BEST AFFORDABLE VITAMIN C SERUM
La Roche-Posay 10% Pure Vitamin C Serum
Size: 1 oz
Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, neurosensine, glycerin, hyaluronic acid
Vitamin C Percentage: 10% L-ascorbic acid
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Ulta Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
$46.99
If you’re looking for a cost effective vitamin C serum, Dr. Jeffy recommends this pick from La Roche-Posay. The French pharmacy brand combines a low dose of 10 percent L-ascorbic acid with salicylic acid, and hyaluronic acid to brighten, smooth, and hydrate skin. While many experts don’t recommend mixing vitamin C with BHAs, Dr. Jeffy labels this product as the exception because proper stability and efficacy testing has been done to ensure the salicylic acid in the formula interacts well with antioxidants. In fact, she says this quality serum is safe for all skin types, including those prone to sensitivity. Apply three to four drops in the morning before following with a moisturizer and sunscreen.
What testers say: “My dermatologist recommended this as part of my daily routine. I fell in love with the smell and the feel of the serum. When I put it on each morning, it’s like I’m giving myself a face massage. It makes my skin look and feel so healthy. Pro Tip: apply when your face is still damp. A little goes a long way. When I first used it, I applied when my face was bone dry, and I had to use a lot. My dermatologist later told me to apply to a damp face and neck, and since then, I’ve been using a lot less. One bottle lasts 6 months or longer.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $46.99
BEST VITAMIN C SERUM RECOMMENDED BY DERMATOLOGISTS
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic
Size: 1 oz
Key Ingredients: Vitamin E, ferulic acid
Vitamin C Percentage: 15% L-ascorbic acid
Dermstore Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.4/5 stars
Bluemercury Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
$182
$182
Ask any dermatologist to name their favorite vitamin C serums, and most will mention SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic (three of our experts did!). “This is one of the most effective and recommended vitamin C serums on the market,” says Dr. Turner. “It features vitamin E and ferulic acid as well as 15 percent L-ascorbic acid, which work together to reduce oxidative damage and improve skin texture and tone.” Additionally, extensive research confirms that this sensitive skin-friendly formula increases firmness and minimizes the look of fine lines and wrinkles with consistent use.
What testers say: “I have used this product for 3 years, and was first introduced to it by my dermatologist. It has helped just about every area of my skin, reducing lines and discolored areas, and firming and moisturizing my skin. My face is in perfect balance and the lines, discoloration, and firmness are improving. It’s wonderful. I’m very happy for my age, (mid 60s).”
Price upon publish date of this article: $182
BEST VITAMIN C SERUM FOR ACNE SCARS
Paula’s Choice 25% Vitamin C + Glutathione Clinical Serum
Size: 1 oz
Key Ingredients: Glutathione, Ergothioneine
Vitamin C Percentage: 25% THD ascorbate and ascorbyl glucoside
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Sephora Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
$62
$62
While higher percentages of vitamin C are more likely to cause irritation, Dr. Turner assures that this pick from Paula’s Choice isn’t the least bit sensitizing. “it doesn’t use L-ascorbic acid, but gentler forms known as tetrahexyldecyl (THD) ascorbate and ascorbyl glucoside,” he explains. When combined with glutathione, these ingredients’ skin-brightening capabilities are heightened to drastically even out tone and boost radiance, particularly for those who frequently cycle in acne spot treatments. Plus, he adds that “it features a unique, milky texture that feels great on the skin and leaves it feeling hydrated.”
What testers say: “My skin usually breaks out with vitamin C serums, but this has been amazing! I’m light to medium skin tone (fair/light in winter and light/medium in summer). I have acne scarring and this has totally helped fade my scars and discoloration! I only use it as a spot treatment and it has not bothered the areas I’ve covered (cheeks, chin, and forehead). It seems to have helped reduce new acne as well. It does feel a bit drying and absorbs VERY quickly. I like the consistency of the serum and it smells nice!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $62
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BEST VITAMIN C SERUM FOR SENSITIVE SKIN
Vichy LiftActiv Vitamin C Serum
Size: 0.68 oz
Key Ingredients: Vitamin E, Vichy volcanic water
Vitamin C Percentage: 15% L-ascorbic acid
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Ulta Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
$34.99
$34.99
A recommendation by Dr. Garshick, the Vichy LiftActiv Vitamin C Serum evens skin tone and improves radiance with 15% L-ascorbic acid. Along with the hero ingredient, it is formulated with just 10 other ingredients, including vitamin E and pine polyphenol antioxidants to protect against environmental aggressors like pollution. “This is lightweight and fragrance-free making it a great option for all skin types.” adds Dr. Garshick. To combat oxidation, Vichy developed a unique dispenser that slows down the process and keeps the formula inside as pure as possible. To use, turn the bottle completely upside down and gently squeeze the air-tight tip to dispense the ideal amount of serum.
What testers say: “I have sensitive skin with some eczema, dermatitis, and rosacea. I get a bit apprehensive trying new products in my face, as I’ve had some negative reactions in the past. This vitamin C serum is really lovely and doesn’t flare up my skin at all! I’m able to use it daily without any kind of negative reaction and my skin feels much more supple and youthful – even at 40!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $34.99
BEST VITAMIN C SERUM ON AMAZON
Andalou Naturals Turmeric + Vitamin C Enlighten Serum
Size: 1.1 oz
Key Ingredients: Turmeric, heirloom apple + grape stem cells
Vitamin C Percentage: Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
$17.01 $26.99 37% off
With 1,400 five-star reviews, shoppers adore how silky and refreshing this bestselling Amazon beauty product feels on skin, and it also has Dr. Garshick’s seal of approval. The clean ingredient list reads similar to a citrusy, radiance-boosting smoothie. “It contains fruit stem cell extract, turmeric, and magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, a type of vitamin C that is gentle, helping to brighten the skin without causing irritation,” she explains. Apply it in the morning to your face and neck — beyond making skin feel soft and supple, the natural citrus scent immediately energizes the senses.
What testers say: “I have used a few bottles of this now, and it has become one of my all-time favorite skin care products. I’m not fussy about skin care, so I tend to find just a few products I love and use them exclusively. This is one of them. I sought this out because I had a spot of grayish discoloration on my upper lip. I read that turmeric could be helpful, but I didn’t want the hassle of making my own orange-staining paste every day. So I tried this stuff. After two bottles (probably about a year of use), the dark spot is completely gone. It took some patience, but I believe this is the product that produced the result. Highly, highly recommend. It smells nice too.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $17.01
BEST VITAMIN C SERUM FOR HYPERPIGMENTATION
Tatcha Violet-C Brightening Serum 20% Vitamin C + 10% Aha
Size: 1 oz
Key Ingredients: 10% Mild fruit AHAs, Japanese angelica root extract
Vitamin C Percentage: 20% Bis-glyceryl ascorbate and ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate
Sephora Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
$89
Although packed with a high concentration of vitamin C and a blend of exfoliating fruit acids, this fast-acting serum is surprisingly gentle. Two forms of vitamin C ward off signs of premature aging and free radical damage. Meanwhile, the 10 percent AHA complex lightly resurfaces skin, removing debris and dead skin cells and revealing a baby smooth surface. Japanese Angelica root extract — a Tatcha signature — optimizes the antioxidant effects of Vitamin C, assisting in the reduction of various forms of discoloration, including dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and post-acne scarring. While experts typically say that visible results from vitamin C serums are noticeable after a few months, many testers state that they experienced major positive changes in their skin in as little as two weeks.
What testers say: “This is the only serum I’ve ever used during the day that truly makes a difference. I have really sensitive skin but I can use this everyday, and I actually see that my skin is brighter, smoother, and less red. I used the whole bottle before writing a review but honestly 2 weeks in I saw noticeable results.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $89
BEST LIGHTWEIGHT VITAMIN C SERUM
Yon-Ka Vitamin C Serum C20
Size: 1.01 oz
Key Ingredients: Turmeric, pomegranate cells, organic apricot oil
Vitamin C Percentage: 20% ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
$151.20
While I rely on the Yse Beauty Morning Cocktail in the winter months (more on that in a moment), the Yon-Ka Vitamin C Serum is my trusty summertime radiance-enhancer. What initially drew me into the luxury French formula was the refreshing citrusy scent, but it’s the bottled golden hour effect that keeps me reaching for it on the regular. Despite the featherlight consistency, this antioxidant serum is chock full of moisturizing and brightening heavyweights. Vitamin C may be the main ingredient, however it also features turmeric and pomegranate cells to illuminate complexions, as well as apricot kernel oil to lightly hydrate. I often forgo makeup on the days I apply this because of the gorgeous, healthy sheen it leaves behind.
What testers say: “When I saw the price tag of this serum, I was skeptical. I’ve used many different Vitamin C serums before and have been disappointed with the results. Fortunately, this one worked well for my mature, combination skin! This vitamin C serum cleared up the dry patches beneath my eyes and gave my face a dewy glow! It doesn’t have SPF so I reserved it for the evening but now I’m considering using it in the morning as well because people have commented on how much younger I look.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $151.20
BEST VITAMIN C SERUM FOR ACNE-PRONE SKIN
Supergoop! Daily Dose Vitamin C + Spf 40 Sunscreen Serum
Size: 1 oz
Key Ingredients: SPF, Kakadu plum extract, niacinamide
Vitamin C Percentage: 10% 3-O Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
Sephora Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
$46
$46
Even on days when you’re feeling lazy with your skin routine, you should never skip out on sunscreen. That’s where this multi-purpose, oil-free skin savior from Supergoop! comes in handy. In this formula, SPF and vitamin C are a match made in heaven: “Studies show that vitamin C can increase the photoprotection of SPF,” explains Dr. Turner. “So choosing a sunscreen with vitamin C may increase your protection by fighting free radicals that have formed.” Hyaluronic acid and marine extract also provide ample hydration to round out this one-and-done moisturizer-serum-face sunscreen hybrid.
What testers say: “This product is an absolute game changer. Reading comprehension is crucial. The directions clearly indicate ‘shake well.’ This step is the difference between disappointment and absolute customer satisfaction… shake well!! I promise you will see an ethereal life-changing glow. I applied this and my colleagues on Zoom demanded to know what I had done.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $46
BEST VITAMIN C SERUM FOR REDNESS
Sunday Riley CEO 15% Vitamin C Brightening Serum
Size: 1 oz
Key Ingredients: Phytosterols complex, saccharide isomerate extract, glycolic acid
Vitamin C Percentage: 15% THD ascorbate
Sephora Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Ulta Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
$85
$85
Made with a high concentration of THD ascorbate — one of the most efficient and stable forms of vitamin C — this brightening serum from Sunday Riley instantly provides you with a next level glow. In addition to the inherent illuminating and anti-aging benefits courtesy of vitamin C, it also lessens the look of pores and quells signs of skin sensitivity, like redness, thanks to the advanced Phytosterols complex and saccharide isomerate extract. The expertly-crafted blend boasts a highly moisturizing gel-cream texture that quickly sinks into skin and layers well with other products.
What testers say: “I’ve been using this product for a little over a month and it’s worked great on me so far. Uneven and dull skin texture were big concerns for me, and I feel this has improved on them a lot and made my skin extra glowy. My skin is also very sensitive and oily and this didn’t irritate my skin or make it feel greasy at all.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $85
Related:
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BEST VITAMIN C SERUM FOR DRY SKIN
Revision Skincare Vitamin C lotion
Size: 1 oz
Key Ingredients: Squalane, vitamin E, coenzyme Q10
Vitamin C Percentage: 30% THD Ascorbate
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Dermstore Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.4/5 stars
$138
$138
Many vitamin C serums are housed in sunny orange bottles, but this potent formula keeps things lowkey in an opaque black tube. Don’t let the modest dark packaging deter you, though. (It’s actually ideal for preventing oxidation!). This powerful serum-cream is one of Dr Reed’s favorites because it’s formulated with THD ascorbate which is the “most stable and lipid-soluble form of vitamin C,” she says. An array of antioxidants, including vitamin E and coenzyme Q10 enhance the brightening, line-smoothing, and firming effects, while squalane intensely moisturizes skin.
What testers say: “Using just a small amount 2x per day REALLY improved the appearance of my skin: More glow, tighter, diminished wrinkles & plumper…especially around lips and under eyes. I am 45, fair skinned, and have never worn makeup, my skin is not sensitive to most products but I cannot get a result from a lot of products. My under eye area is naturally blueish because of my fair skin and this helped a LOT. It needs to be used for more than a week, even better if more than two, but it seems to do what the aesthetician says — actually enable skin to boost collagen production.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $138
BEST VITAMIN C FOR OILY SKIN
Acure Brightening Vitamin C & Ferulic Serum
Size: 1 oz
Key Ingredients: Ferulic acid, pineapple extract
Vitamin C Percentage: THD ascorbate
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
$15.39
When you think of fruits with vitamin C, oranges may be the first thing to come to mind. But did you know that pineapples contain a higher level of the antioxidant? This Acure face serum utilizes pineapple extract to amplify radiance and fight free radicals, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to this impressive formulation. According to Dr. Nazarian, this serum was “smartly made” with a combination of the gentle vitamin C derivative THD ascorbate and ferulic acid. Paired together, these ingredients increase potency and effectiveness to quickly fade dark spots and even out the tone of your complexion. Furthermore, because it’s formulated without oils, this face serum is ideal for those with oily, acne-prone skin.
What testers say: “I’m only a couple weeks into using this, but it’s the only thing I’ve changed in my routine and WOW. I’m in my mid-30s and still have that lovely combo of acne and fine lines. With this serum I’ve noticed my pores clearing out and acne healing faster, with no/very few new pimples popping up. If you have dry skin, this is not for you. It’s not moisturizing at all.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $15.39
BEST VITAMIN C SERUM FOR ROSACEA
Yse Beauty Morning Cocktail Vitamin C Serum
Size: 1 oz
Key Ingredients: Azelaic acid, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid
Vitamin C Percentage: 12.12% THD ascorbate and ascorbic acid
$82
I think I speak for a lot of people when I say that celebrity beauty brands are so overdone. Granted, I’m thankful I didn’t totally write off Molly Sims’ Yse Beauty, especially the Morning Cocktail Vitamin C Serum. Inside the statuesque white bottle is a creamy serum that utilizes three stabilized forms of vitamin C along with a slew of calming skin hydrators, like hyaluronic acid, squalane, azelaic acid, and niacinamide. Collectively, these ingredients address a range of concerns beyond dullness — continued use can reverse signs of photo-aging like dark spots and fine lines, and may also even out your skin tone. I can confirm that this soothing formulation gives me a glow that rivals a professional facial. It’s my vitamin C of choice during the dry winter months when I need an extra burst of luminosity and hydration.
What testers say: “I was a little scared to even try this Vitamin C serum after others have left me red, irritated, and peeling. Not the case with this miracle in a bottle! It feels so good to be able to use this daily without any negative side effects. It is completely unscented, absorbs like a dream and does not pill under my SPF and makeup. The white matte bottle is chic and luxurious to hold.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $82
BEST VITAMIN C SERUM FOR DARK SPOTS
Drunk Elephant C-Firma Fresh Vitamin-C Day Serum
Size: 1.1 oz
Key Ingredients: Ferulic acid, vitamin E
Vitamin C Percentage: 15% L-ascorbic acid
Sephora Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
$78
Chemistry buffs will appreciate this Drunk Elephant serum. To keep the delicate antioxidants as fresh as possible, the formula needs to be mixed together before use. Simply pour the liquid mixture into the powder and shake for 30 seconds before popping it into the opaque container. This mini science experiment maximizes the potency of this dark spot-correcting serum, and honestly, I found that it makes using it much more fun. Now let’s get into the nitty gritty: The combination of L-ascorbic acid, ferulic acid, and vitamin E work to brighten and firm your complexion, while pumpkin ferment extract and sodium hyaluronate (a derivative of hyaluronic acid) dissolve dead skin cells and soften skin. The thin serum feels slightly sticky to touch, but that sensation dwindles in mere seconds as it sinks into skin.
What testers say: “I am fascinated by the packaging of this serum. I love the fact that you activate the product when you are ready to use it. The serum goes on smoothly, feels nice on the skin, and works nicely with other products.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $78
Vitamin C Serum Benefits
Brightening skin: Vitamin C is perhaps best known for its skin brightening and dark spot-reducing capabilities. Dr Turner explains that the ingredient truly excels in this department because it is a tyrosinase inhibitor, which means that “it limits the production of melanin, combatting hyperpigmentation.” He adds that these effects are further enhanced when paired with other brightening ingredients, including licorice root. Keep in mind that, as with any skincare product, it takes consistent use to reap the brightening benefits. “Initial subtle brightening effects may be seen within four to six weeks, whereas true hyperpigmentation improvement can take a few months of consistent use,” says Dr. Reed.
Smoothing fine lines and wrinkles: Our bodies naturally produce collagen, a protein that acts as a skin building block. As we age, our ability to form collagen dwindles. Topically applying vitamin C supports collagen production, which Dr. Garshick explains can help improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, leading to firmer, smoother skin. Although, results can take anywhere from three to six months to be truly noticeable. Beyond helping to reverse these signs of aging, Dr. Turner adds that research has shown that vitamin C’s effect can also be preventative, so even if fine lines aren’t a current concern, incorporating a serum into your routine can lessen the chance of them appearing in the future.
Free radical defense: Exposure to sunlight and pollution can trigger free radical damage, which can lead to dark spots, loss of skin elasticity, and advanced photoaging. Dr. Garshick explains that, along with other antioxidants, vitamin C can help protect against and reverse these signs of skin aging when applied regularly. These benefits are strengthened when mixed with other antioxidants (like vitamin E and ferulic acid) or sunscreen.
Helping with hydration: While vitamin C isn’t inherently moisturizing on its own, Dr. Turner says that it plays an important role in maintaining the skin barrier’s function. “We don’t typically think of Vitamin C itself as one of the primary hydrating agents in skin care. However, it does promote the maintenance of skin hydration through its production of collagen,” he explains. Dr. Reed tacks on that pairing vitamin C with a moisturizer really amplifies the hydration factor. These effects can be seen and felt almost immediately.
What to Look for in the Best Vitamin C Serums
Vitamin C percentage: Vitamin C potency differs from serum to serum, although most will contain eight to 20 percent L-Ascorbic acid. Like with other active ingredients, it’s important to start with a lower percentage to allow your skin time to build a tolerance before incorporating a stronger product into your routine. “Those with sensitive skin may find it better to start with a lower concentration of L-Ascorbic acid between eight and 10 percent and increase if needed or try a different type of vitamin C, like sodium ascorbyl phosphate,” says Dr. Garshick. “That said, in general, most people can start between 10 and 20 percent.” When choosing a percentage, take your skin type into account. Many of our experts note that those with oily skin tend to tolerate higher concentrations of vitamin C better than people with dry skin. And Dr. Jeffy mentions that if you experience any irritation in the form of redness, itching, or flaking, you’ll want to find another serum with a lower concentration.
Opaque and/or airtight packaging: Vitamin C in its purest form (L-Ascorbic acid) is notoriously unstable — exposure to air, light, and extreme temperatures can oxidize and deteriorate the ingredient, rendering it ineffective. With that in mind, our experts strongly recommend looking for vitamin C serums packaged in opaque, airtight containers, and steering clear of products in clear bottles or jars. “Storage location is also important,” Dr. Turner conveys. “I recommend keeping vitamin C in your bedroom rather than a bathroom as temperature and humidity can fluctuate dramatically in a bathroom.” Dr. Reed adds that if you notice a change in the color (from a clear or light hue to a darker orange or brown), consistency, or smell of your serum, those are clear indicators that the product is past its shelf life and should be swapped for something new.
Additional antioxidants: When paired with other antioxidants — including vitamin E, niacinamide, and ferulic acid — vitamin C’s efficacy and stability increase, intensifying the ingredient’s benefits, explains Dr. Turner. While you can layer different serums over top of one another, many vitamin C serums are infused with these ingredients creating a powerful, potent cocktail. On the flip side, there are some ingredients that shouldn’t be mixed with vitamin C, like AHAs and BHAs. Dr. Jeffy says that when used in tandem with vitamin C, these chemical exfoliators can negatively affect vitamin C’s stability. If you feel the need to incorporate both into your routine, apply vitamin C in the morning and reserve your exfoliating serums for the evening.
How We Chose the Best Vitamin C Serums
Since 1910, WWD — often referred to as “the fashion bible” — has been the leading industry voice of authority for senior executives in the global women’s and men’s fashion, retail and beauty communities, while also informing the consumer media that cover the market. Today, WWD’s breaking news and trend coverage continues to be a trustworthy resource for both fashion insiders and consumers alike. Our shopping editors continue to uphold WWD’s editorial standards and values with quality, expert-backed product selections.
In the oversaturated vitamin C serum market, it was a tedious, collective effort to narrow down to the top 13 formulations available. Along with assessing top-rated products and reading through hundreds of customer reviews, we interviewed dermatologists to obtain their personal recommendations and learn what key attributes to look for in quality vitamin C serums. In addition, we took our own product testing into account, analyzing the texture, strength, and efficacy of multiple serums over the course of several months’ use. Our final list features vitamin C serums that are compatible with a range of skin types, including oily, dry, acne-prone, and sensitive. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Experts
Dr. Ryan Turner is a Harvard trained board-certified dermatologist in New York City. Along with founding his own practice, Turner Dermatology, he recently launched TRNR Skin, a comprehensive skincare line with science-first philosophy.
Dr. Rachel Nazarian is a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group. She practices various aspects of dermatology including lasers, injectables, and skin cancer screenings.
Dr. Marisa Garshick is a board-certified dermatologist, practicing at MDCS Dermatology locations in both New York City and Englewood, New Jersey. She is also an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Cornell – New York Presbyterian Medical Center.
Dr. Brooke Jeffy is a board-certified dermatologist specializing in teen skincare and acne treatment/prevention. She also is the founder of BTWN, a simple skincare line for teens.
Dr. Kelly Reid is a board-certified dermatologist at West Lake Dermatology in Austin, TX. She specializes in aesthetic skin care, general medical dermatology, pediatric, and rheumatologic dermatology
Meet the Author
Mary Honkus is a freelance beauty writer with over five years of experience researching, testing, and writing about hair care, makeup, and skincare. She has held on-staff positions at InStyle, People, and Real Simple, and her bylines can be found in numerous other publications including Cosmopolitan and Us Weekly. Mary has normal skin and vitamin C is a staple in her skincare routine. For this story, she carefully combed through bestseller lists and reviews, interviewed experts for their recommendations, and even included some of her tried and true vitamin C serums in the final list. She currently resides in New York City.
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