However, we will share with you as much information as possibly can about this subject so that you no longer have any questions left un-answered by the end of this article.
Kitchen + Dining
“I think it’s the best out there,” declares Dr. Kenneth Howe of the Wexler Dermatology Group. He says it has a light, non-greasy feel, while still delivering “the maximum amount of its active ingredients to the skin.” It is expensive, but worth the price due to its super-stable, patented formula, according to our experts. That’s because L-ascorbic acid (which comprises 15 percent of this serum) is water soluble, and in less precisely formulated serums, won’t effectively penetrate skin.
As Dr. Julie Russak, founder of the Russak Dermatology Group, puts it, this serum can “deliver vitamin C through the top layer without disrupting the protective barrier of the skin.”
Whatever vitamin C serum you choose, Howe suggests applying it in the morning. “That way a reservoir of active vitamin C is present in the skin during the daylight hours, when ultraviolet radiation is strongest,” he explain.
Skinceuticals C E Ferulic
Enter, the Allure Ingredient Index.
There’s an ingredient for that: vitamin C. The powerhouse skin-care staple is a potent antioxidant that helps reduce skin inflammation and irregular pigmentation while promoting healthy collagen production, explains Joshua Zeichner, M.D., the director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. Unfortunately, very little vitamin C ever makes it to the skin on its own, says board-certified dermatologist Laurel Naversen Geraghty, M.D., which is why it’s so important to topically apply products made with the skin-care ingredient. Read on for the best 24 vitamin C-spiked serums, moisturizers, and eye creams that are sure to leave your skin happy and brigh.
Best Overall:
Skinceuticals C E Ferulic
You can learn more about our review process here. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links. It’s known and loved for its brightening and anti-aging abilities, and dermatologists also tout it for being one of the strongest protective antioxidants out there.
While budget-friendly vitamin C serums certainly do exist, the majority of formulas skew on the expensive side. That said, they are totally worth the investment, as a highly concentrated vitamin C serum will ward off harmful environmental aggressors like UV rays, pollution, and smoke, while also reversing existing damage. They’re also ideal for brightening and evening out a mottled complexion.
“Vitamin C is a multi-tasking brightening agent as its antioxidant properties provide protection from ultraviolet light exposure, and it also inhibits tyrosinase, the enzyme that fuels melanin pigment production,” explains Dr. Jessie Cheung, a dermatologist. As a topical ingredient, vitamin C is volatile and breaks down when exposed to light or oxygen. Vitamin C also works well with other antioxidants, so products that combine it with other actives could work double-duty on your skin concerns.
Behold: The best brightening vitamin C serums to add to your skincare routin.
What Does Vitamin C Serum Do?
O understand how vitamin C works, you first have to understand free radicals. In high numbers, they can break cells down over time, contributing to illness and aging.
Vitamin C is one such antioxidant. When used on the skin, it can combat signs of aging. We rounded up 10 great options for you.