Vitamin C is a powerhouse ingredient. It's the most potent when found in serums and when used correctly, it can leave skin looking healthier and brighter with each day. It tackles common skin concerns like dullness, discoloration, and uneven skin texture, making it a favorite product among the acne community.
It’s also one serum I use religiously (followed by sunscreen) each day.
Image via Vogue
Vitamin C serum is typically used in the morning due to its antioxidant properties which act as a shield to deflect pollution, UV damage, and other environmental aggressors. It's also recommended to be applied after the "toning" step and before moisturizer.
If you're like me and using other serums or products, wait until the Vitamin C serum has dried before finishing the rest of your skincare routine. This handy fan from Amazon helps speed up the process.
Because of the amazing brightening benefits of Vitamin C, you may notice it in some of your other products listed as ascorbic acid or L-ascorbic acid.
Need recommendations on which to include in your routine? Here are some serums I find myself going back to time & time again:
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Naturium Vitamin C Complex Serum
I’m currently using this one! This is a budget-friendly serum that dries without stickiness. It features a highly stable, pure l-ascorbic acid and Kakadu plum to visibly brighten, hydrate, and protect the skin barrier.
KLUR Brilliant Light Multi-Correctional Repair Serum
This fast-absorbing serum is great for all skin types and tones. The gentle formula helps firm skin, improve skin texture, and even skin tone. The bottle is housed in an amber bottle which helps to prevent UV oxidation and protect the potency of the product for longer.
Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Vitamin C Serum
You may have seen this brand positively featured (and loved) on TikTok for good reason. Their vitamin C serum leaves behind a glow which makes it great for brightening. It layers wonderfully with other skincare products and has no pilling under makeup. Don't forget to scoop up their Banana Bright Eye Cream too!
iNNBEAUTY PROJECT Green Machine Vitamin C + Green Superfoods Jelly Serum
InnBeauty is a newish skincare brand that focuses on vegan, effective products. This vitamin C serum has a lightweight texture and is formulated with pomegranate stem cells that help reduce hyperpigmentation.
Paula's Choice Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum
This serum is made with a stable form of Vitamin C which makes it a great alternative for folks with sensitive skin. It also has peptides and ceramides which help strengthen the skin's barrier.
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic
This powerhouse award-winning serum is on the pricey end but worth every cent. It has a lightweight formula that is absorbed quickly and doesn’t leave a tacky residue behind. I’ve only been able to afford it once, and man, the results are amazing.
What are your favorite Vitamin C Serums? Let me know in the comments.
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