The best vitamin C serums can help fight dark spots, hyperpigmentation, acne scars, and restore radiance. This antioxidant, which helps slow skin aging, is found in many products: moisturizers, eye creams, face masks, and more. Dermatologists consider it one of the essential ingredients for brightening, plumping, and protecting skin. Vitamin C serum should be part of your daily skincare routine.
Here are the 6 Best Vitamin C serums for face benefits available in US:
Best Vitamin C Serum: SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic
What we like: Its results are visible much faster than those of other vitamin C serums thanks to its three key ingredients that can be used every morning with pleasant consistency that absorbs quickly.
What we don’t like: Its high price; the characteristic vitamin C odor that some find unpleasant.
Key ingredients: 15% pure vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), 1% vitamin E, 0.5% ferulic acid
Consistency: Smooth
Size: 35 ml
Skin type: normal, dry, sensitive, mature
How to use: Apply four to six drops to clean skin every morning
What dermatologists say: This best-selling vitamin C serum is considered one of the best by dermatologists. Dr. Taylor likes the fact that it offers triple protection, with L-ascorbic acid (15%), vitamin E, and ferulic acid. Also adds that this product “offers the highest amount of antioxidants of any product available” thanks to its careful combination of active ingredients, it shows in the price, but you get what you pay for.
Like most vitamin C serums, this product has a slight scent and a deep amber color, but it doesn’t bother me too much and doesn’t linger. As for consistency and absorption, the formula feels nice and silky on the skin and absorbs quickly, making it easy to continue your morning routine. Plus, a little goes a long way, which helps to offset the expense.
The Best Value Vitamin C Serum: The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%
What we like: Its affordable price; its fast results thanks to its high potency; it doesn’t cause irritation
We don’t like: its slightly grainy texture
Key ingredients: Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), hyaluronic acid
Consistency: Smooth
Size: 35 ml
Skin type: Normal, combination, dry, oily
How to use: Apply a pea-sized amount to clean skin every night.
What dermatologists say: When it comes to value for money, The Ordinary’s skincare range is unbeatable. “This is an affordable and potent option—23% vitamin C—but the high concentration of ascorbic acid can cause irritation, especially in sensitive skin,” says Dr. Rebeeca, who notes that this product is best suited for those with resilient, non-sensitive skin who want a budget-friendly option to target uneven texture and dullness, as well as improve signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles
Best Vitamin C Serum Available on Amazon: TruSkin Vitamin C Serum
What we like: Its hydrating properties, thanks to a powerful blend of hyaluronic acid and vitamin E; its affordable price.
What we don’t like: The time it takes to see results.
Key ingredients: Vitamin C (sodium ascorbyl phosphate), vitamin E, hyaluronic acid.
Consistency: Smooth.
Size: 35 ml.
Skin type: All skin types.
How to apply: Apply three to five drops to clean skin morning or evening.
What dermatologists say: This TruSkin formula is one of Dr. Aisha’s recommended vitamin C options for those on a budget. “This is an best face serum that contains hydrating hyaluronic acid and vitamin E,” she explains. This means you’ll get hydrating benefits in addition to brightening ones. A word of caution: This serum also contains a high concentration of vitamin C. If you’re new to this ingredient, you can start using it every day—just a few drops are all you need. The benefit is that this enhances the serum’s effectiveness and makes it last longer.
Best Vitamin C Serum for Sensitive Skin: Paula’s Choice C15 Super Booster:
What we like: This Face serum doesn’t dry out the skin; that it can be used up to twice a day; and its instant radiance effect.
What we don’t like: Its slightly medicinal scent; the time it takes for the most noticeable effects to appear.
Key ingredients: 15% pure vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), vitamin E, ferulic acid.
Consistency: Liquid.
Size: 30 ml.
Skin type: All skin types.
How to apply: Apply two to three drops to clean skin morning and night.
What dermatologists say: New to vitamin C skin care products? Dr. Taylor recommends this product for younger patients looking to introduce the ingredient into their skincare routine. The formula contains 15% vitamin C, which is less than the typical 20% found in other options. This is a real boon for those with sensitive skin, as it helps even out skin tone while limiting the risk of irritation. You can also mix the serum with your favorite glowing moisturizer for even more skin-brightening and irritation-protecting benefits.
Best for fine lines and wrinkles: Sunday Riley C.E.O. Glow Vitamin C & Turmeric Face Oil
We like: Its lightness, its pleasant citrus scent, and its easy-to-carry bottle.
We don’t like: Its texture, which some users find a little too heavy for oily skin.
Key ingredients: Vitamin C (THD ascorbate), golden turmeric, ginger root extract
Consistency: Oily
Size: 35 ml
Skin type: Normal, dry, combination
Directions: Apply three to four drops to the face and neck, morning and/or evening.
What dermatologists say: “This product is excellent for dry or mature skin thanks to its oil base, which nourishes while providing antioxidant benefits,” says Dr. Aisha’s. The inclusion of turmeric gives it anti-inflammatory properties, making it also suitable for skin prone to redness. Note: Those with oily or acne-prone skin may find this formula too rich.
Best Vitamin C Serum for Dark Spots: La Roche-Posay 10% Pure Vitamin C Serum:
What we like: Its properties are ideal for acne-prone skin; its non-sticky texture.
What we don’t like: Its vitamin C concentration, which is lower than in other products.
Key ingredients: Pure vitamin C, salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid.
Consistency: Smooth.
Size: 100 ml.
Skin type: All skin types.
How to apply: Apply three to four drops to the face and neck every morning.
What dermatologists say: This more affordable serum is an excellent choice for sensitive or combination skin, says Dr. Monica. “It offers a balance of exfoliation (salicylic acid) and soothing properties (neurosensin), which can help improve skin texture and tone without irritating it.” And while more experienced users may desire a higher amount of the active ingredient, the lower vitamin C concentration is ideal for new users.
