Accessories To Apply Vitamin C Serum
There are a number of tools you can use to apply vitamin c serum:
- Gua sha tool. This ancient Chinese technique is used to stimulate the facial fascia to increase skin circulation, remove blockages, and increase blood flow. Gua sha tools can be paired with any serum to help the tool glide more effectively over the skin and make absorption more effective.
- Jade roller. Like gua sha tools, jade rollers can help increase circulation, depuff skin, reduce inflammation, and expedite product absorption.
- Ionic wand for face. Using ionic technology, an ionic wand opens up the pores to help push active ingredients within a serum deep into the skin for better penetration and absorption.
Plum 15% Vitamin C Face Serum
The Plum 15% Vitamin C face serum is a 4-star rated and effective vitamin C serum. It has been carefully formulated for maximum efficacy, safety, and overall results. This Vitamin C serum contains 15% Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, which is a stable and fast-acting form of Vitamin C. In addition, the combination of Japanese Mandarin and Kakadu Plum boosts Vitamin C’s performance and aids in collagen production and sun damage protection, respectively.
Furthermore, Ethoxydiglycol & Propanediol for boosting Vitamin C penetration into skin, Betaine for hydration, and Rose Extracts for soothing skin are all included in this serum from the goodness labs. Finally, no artificial colours, fragrances, or essential oils have been added!
- Price: 479
Sunday Riley Ceo 15% Vitamin C Brightening Serum
BEST FOR DULL SKIN
The Good Housekeeping Institute rated this pick as the best for dull skin, thanks to its ultra-potent serum that contains15% vitamin C to treat the look of dullness, dark spots, and discolorations all over the face. The key ingredient is its unique form of vitamin C called THD Ascorbate, which is a highly stable ingredient that rapidly absorbs into the skin, according to the brand. The benefits also include improving firmness in the skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines. The formula is also packed with Saccharide Isomerate extract, an ingredient that helps to make pores appear smaller and strengthens the skins barrier.
SkinMedica Vitamin C+E Complex
- Can Irritate Some Skin Types
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The Ordinary Ascorbic Acid 8% + Alpha Arbutin 2%
BEST FOR HYPERPIGMENTATION
At only $11, this affordable serum packs a punch of 8% vitamin C, which is pretty impressive. It also contains alpha-arbutin, an ingredient that works to reduce the look of spots and hyperpigmentation, and ascorbic acid which helps improve signs of aging, while brightening the skin.
My favorite serum for daytime! Ive tried the alpha arbutin + HA in the past and it seemed to have broken me out. Then I tried this one and it worked perfectly for me! I have oily skin and this does give you a glowy look that Im not a fan of but my skin looks like that naturally so might as well add some antioxidants to it lol, added another reviewer.
Olehenriksen Banana Bright 15% Vitamin C Serum
- Customers Note It Pills Under SPF
How We Chose The Best Vitamin C Serums

We consulted Dr. Hirsch, Dr. Del Campo, , M.D., board-certified dermatologist practicing in South Carolina, Meghan Feely, M.D., board-certified dermatologist in New Jersey and New York City who serves as a clinical instructor in Mount Sinais Department of Dermatology, Joshua Zeichner, M.D., board-certified dermatologist in New York City, Shari Sperling, M.D., board-certified dermatologist at Sperling Dermatology in New Jersey, Anne Chapas, M.D., board-certified dermatologist of UnionDerm in New York City, the Good Housekeeping Institute who tests countless products to ensure a fair and accurate representation of each item, and countless customer reviews to find the best vitamin c serums for brighter skin.
Apply one of these vitamin C serums in the morning after cleansingbut before sunscreen for the best results.
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Beauty Stat Universal C Skin Refiner
Founded by cosmetic chemist Ron Robinson, this serum contains vitamin C in its purest form, with a unique patented formula of stable 20% pure vitamin C and stable epigallocatechin gallate, which is a skin-aiding ingredient found in green tea. The two ingredients work well together to prevent signs of aging, alongside squalane for moisture and tartaric acid which helps the skin absorb product more easily. New York City-based dermatologist Dr. Shereene Idriss is a fan of the formula too because it is a patented version of stabilized 20% L Ascorbic Acid that does not oxidize, though she recommends approaching it with caution because of the high concentration.
Babor Power Serum Ampoules Vitamin C
The Comfort Vitamin C Serum is formulated with a highly effective combination of vitamin C ester, a stable form of vitamin C that stimulates collagen synthesis, says Dr. Del Campo. It also contains hyaluronic acid and omega-3 fatty acids to help minimize the look of fine lines and wrinkles as it helps to strengthen the skins natural protective barrier and combat oxidative skin-aging. This vegan formula is free of fragrances, silicones, parabens, and mineral oils, making it gentle yet effective for even the most sensitive skin.
Yes To Grapefruit Daily Brightening Serum
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How To Prevent Hyperpigmentation
The best way to prevent the onset of hyperpigmentation is sun protection. This means wearing an SPF of 30 or higher each day even when its cloudy outside and reapplying it every two hours and after swimming or excessive sweating. The American Academy of Dermatology reports that, even on cloudy days, up to 80 percent of the suns harmful ultraviolet rays can penetrate the skin.
If youre wearing makeup, opt for mineral powders, sprays, or foundation to make the reapplication process easier. To help keep you on top of your game heres some food for thought: A single day of excessive sun exposure can undo months of treatment.
Remember, no sunscreen can completely protect your skin, so the best way to avoid the sun is to stay out of it especially between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the suns rays are the strongest. Sunbeds are also off-limits if you want to prevent hyperpigmentation along with premature aging and a risk of skin cancer.
Skin Conditions: Melasma And Postinflammatory Hyperpigmentation
Skin conditions such as melasma and postinflammatory hyperpigmentation both have hyperpigmentation as a common symptom.
Melasma
Melasma can be triggered by changes in hormone levels, and manifests as large patches of hyperpigmented skin primarily on the face.
Although it can affect both men and women, it is most common in women due to fluctuations in hormone levels during pregnancy, where estrogen and progesterone stimulate the overproduction of melanin.
In fact, melasma occurs in 1015% of pregnant women and in 1025% of women taking oral contraceptives. Vitamin C can reduce pigmentation by interrupting the key steps of melanin formation, thus significantly decreasing the degree of pigmentation in those prone to developing melasma.
Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation
Once a wound has healed following skin injuries, acne, chemical exposure or dermatitis, skin may be left darkened and discolored. This is called postinflammatory hyperpigmentation and is a result of the inflammation triggering melanin production.
This type of hyperpigmentation may also be caused by cosmetic procedures such as chemical peels and dermabrasion.
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The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + Ha: Ultimate Effective Serum For Fading Skin Hyperpigmentation Spots
Alpha Arbutin fades prominent hyperpigmentation spots on the skin, giving you more balanced, smooth and vibrant skin tones. The high concentration is much more effective than the one-percent concentrations of the majority of contemporary skin products. This empowering ingredient is strengthened further by a next-generation type of Hyaluronic Acid. Alpha Arbutin has significantly greater strength and effect than either Arbutin or Beta Arbutin.
Alpha Arbutin is quite sensitive to deterioration when exposed to water if the pH of the serum formula is not of optimal quality and effectiveness. For this reason, the pH level of this serum is approximately 4.9, the ideal pH count to show a definite, positive decrease in active degradation of Alpha Arbutin.
Other ingredients of this very successful pigment-balancing formula from The Ordinary include Aqua , Alpha-Arbutin, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Propanediol, PPG-26-Buteth-26, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Lactic Acid, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Ethoxydiglycol, Phenoxyethanol and Chlorphenesin. All of these ingredients act together to promote healthy reduction of hyperpigmentation while nurturing skin cell growth and repair.
Pros
Cons
- This serum is packaged without a safety seal
Hyper Skin Hyper Clear Brightening Clearing Vitamin C Serum
Hyper Skin is a brand hyper-focused on treating the needs of people of color, says founder Desiree Verdejo. The lines debut product, Hyper Clear, helps to heal hyperpigmentation while simultaneously enhancing glow with its blend of vitamin C, vitamin E, kojic acid, hyaluronic acid, turmeric, and bearberry.
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Roc Multi Correxion Revive + Glow Vitamin C Serum
RoC may be known for its quality OTC retinol cream, but its vitamin C serum lives up to the hype, too. The 10% vitamin C blend firms, brightens, and evens out the skin with little to no irritation. Reviewers swear they can see the difference in skin luminosity for a fraction of the price of its high-end competitors.
I am 70 years young and try to always buy products that maximize my routine with the best results. This doesnt disappoint. It really refines fine lines and wrinkles, added one reviewer.
Drunk Elephant C-Firma Fresh Day Serum
Yes To Grapefruit Daily Brightening Serum

BEST FOR BEGINNERS
Ideal for all skin types, Yes Tos brightening treatment serum is formulated with grapefruit , vitamin C, and 5% of polyhydroxy acids to help exfoliate and smooth the skin. The Good Housekeeping Institute rated this pick the best for beginners thanks to its ingredient list. The serum works to improve your skin tone and texture, while also leaving it super moisturized. Customers love that the product absorbs quickly into the skin and dries down with no sticky residue. The best part? It also works as the perfect base for layering on moisturizer and makeup.
Lancôme Advanced Génifique Anti-Aging Face Serum
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How To Choose The Best Vitamin C Serum For You
Whats the best way to apply my vitamin C serum?
Apply the serum to your face and neck after cleansing, but before moisturising, to allow the product to penetrate the skin. As vitamin C contains a mild acid, you might experience a tingling or mild stinging sensation when applying your serum.
The discomfort should be mild and temporary to avoid more painful stinging, apply a thin layer every other day at first until your skin becomes used to the product. Go especially easy on sensitive skin. Its wise to start with a lower concentration at first and avoid applying vitamin C on broken skin.
Vitamin C can feel a little gritty or sticky on the skin at first, but this stickiness should disappear once the product is absorbed. If your skincare regime also includes retinol, its best to not use these at the same time as they can each cause mild irritation apply your vitamin C in the morning and your retinol at night.
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What are the benefits of vitamin C and what do the different concentrations do?
Vitamin C at any concentration will help to freshen up, plump and repair skin. Higher concentrations of vitamin C boost the products brightening and pigment-reducing effects so if you especially want to target dark spots and discolouration, youll want to work up to a stronger serum containing a higher percentage of the active ingredient. Always note our advice above about skin sensitivity when using higher concentrations of vitamin C, though.
What Can Vitamin C Do For Your Skin
In skin care a great vitamin C tip is that it can do a few really helpful things if you know its use. First, vitamin C can actually inhibit the production of melanin, the pigment in skin, which makes it a crucial ingredient for managing hyperpigmentation and generally evening out skin tone.
Second, vitamin C acts as an antioxidant, which means it can help neutralize free radicals. These are unstable atoms that form as a result of exposure to environmental stressors like U.V. rays and pollution. Over time, free radicals can cause oxidative stress, which can harm skin and cause premature signs of aging. Using sunscreen daily along with a potent antioxidant like vitamin C is the best way to protect yourself from damage due to free radicals.
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How To Choose A Vitamin C Serum
Vitamin C is one of those antioxidants thats 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 , its important to find a formula that works with your skin.
The Moms Co Natural Vitamin C Face Serum
The Moms Co. promotes surface cell turnover, resulting in skin that is naturally brighter and more even-toned. Our Vitamin C Face Serum is enriched with Vitamin C and Ferulic Acid, which helps the skin fight damage caused by free radicals, pollution, and the sun. Likewise, this potent blend contains 10% Vitamin C, 0.5per cent Ferulic Acid, and Squalene to help lighten skin and reduce dark spots. In addition, The Moms Co.’s serum contains Liquorice Extract.
Moreover, this Vitamin C Face Serum helps achieve clearer, more evenly toned skin by controlling melanin production. Finally, its solution penetrates deep into the skin and works from the inside out. The product has undergone dermatological testing and is made up of non-comedogenic ingredients.
- Price: 446
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Rise N Shine 30% Vitamin C Serum
The highly concentrated amount of Vitamin C in this formula offers a powerful tool for helping to address your facial blemishes.
This formula has been designed to help get rid of dark spots, acne, wrinkles, define pores, brighten the skin, and help with anti-aging. Its made from all organic ingredients and is a high quality product that is effective and will help you address your skin conditions.
In addition to Vitamin C, it also contains Vitamins E, A, and Q10, and Omega 3 fatty acids. Its hard to beat such a powerful antioxidant combination for achieving great looking skin.
Skinceuticals Phloretin Cf Serum
Campbell called SkinCeuticals “the gold standard” of topical vitamin C serums. She recommended the Phloretin CF serum for those with oily skin while the C E Ferulic serum is the “best option for all skin types,” especially those with dry and combination skin. She noted both serums are “effective” antioxidant treatments that “help prevent and treat oxidative stress. Phloretin CF serum received a 4.8-star average rating from more than 540 reviews on Dermstore.
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How To Use Vitamin C Serums For Hyperpigmentation
The best time to apply your vitamin C serum is in the morning before you expose to free radicals. However, there is nothing wrong if you lay your vitamin C serum at night, just that you may get more benefits from using it in the morning. In general vitamin C products should be applied in the morning before heading out for the day when UV radiation is at its highest, Sara Hogan, M.D., a dermatologist at UCLA Medical Center, Santa Monica claims. After cleansing, layer the serum, trap it with a moisturizer, and SPF.
Dont expect any significant changes in your skin for the first two months. Just like most actives, vitamin C takes time to prove its benefits and reduce hyperpigmentation.
Best Budget: Truskin Naturals Vitamin C Serum

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Includes vitamin E, organic aloe vera, and jojoba oil
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Plumps and hydrates skin
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Lower percentage of vitamin C than other options on our list
TruSkin Vitamin C Serum is plant-based and is a fraction of the price of most vitamin C serums, but we chose this product because it’s just as high quality compared to other options. In addition to vitamin C, it includes botanical hyaluronic acid and vitamin E and is designed to target skin aging issues, such as brightness, firmness, fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, and sun spots.
Because of its plant-based ingredients, this formula is free of GMOs, sulfates, and fragrances, so you can take solace in the fact that this addition to your skin care regimen is all-natural. With aloe vera and jojoba oil, it should leave your skin looking supple and hydrated.
Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E | Usage: Apply three to five drops each morning after cleansing and drying face | Scent: None
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What’s The Best Way To Apply Vitamin C On The Skin
If youre turning to vitamin C for its lovely skin-brightening and toning perks, its best to look for it in serums. Aside from helping your skin absorb other skincare products better, serums have a high concentration of active ingredients compared to other skincare products. However, even the most potent of serums can be neutralised if paired with the wrong skincare product. If youre going to use a vitamin C serum, avoid using benzoyl peroxide right after. If you also have retinol in your line-up, you’ll find it beneficial to apply vitamin C first but make sure you’re skin’s not too sensitive.