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There are a lot of serums out there, from eyelash serums to all kinds of face serums. If you only have room (or the patience) to add one serum to your skincare routine, though, experts urge you to go with one with vitamin C. Most people may know about vitamin C formulas for their brightening effects, but this powerful ingredient can do so much more. “Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that fights fine lines by stimulating collagen, brightens your complexion by blocking excess pigment creation, and protects your skin from damaging free radicals and other environmental stressors that can cause premature skin aging,” says Michelle Henry, MD, board-certified dermatologist at Skin & Aesthetic Surgery of Manhattan. “As we age, the skin’s natural levels of antioxidant vitamin C decrease, which is why it’s so important to add it to your skincare routine.” All skin types, ages, and skin tones can benefit from adding a vitamin C serum to their routine. The only downside? Compared to most products, it often costs more per ounce.
Our Top Picks
What to Look for in a Vitamin C Serum
To make sure you get the best return on your investment, here are a few things to keep in mind: Skip creams spiked with vitamin C and instead choose a serum, which is more effective at penetrating the skin barrier, says Brooke Jackson, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Skin Wellness Dermatology Associates. Additionally, there are several forms of vitamin C—and not all are created equal, says Henry. Check the label for L-ascorbic acid, which is considered to be the vitamin C that’s best for skin. (Even better: if it contains 15 to 20 percent L-ascorbic acid, which is the most effective.) “Vitamin C is notoriously unstable—especially when it’s exposed to air and light,” says Jackson. “So it’s best to pick a formula that comes in an airtight pump or opaque bottle, and keep it away from direct sunlight.”
The experts:
- Michelle Henry, MD, board-certified dermatologist at Skin & Aesthetic Surgery of Manhattan
- Tsippora Shainhouse, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles
- Brooke Jackson, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Skin Wellness Dermatology Associates
- Erin Gilbert, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Gilbert Dermatology
- Nichelle Mosley, founder of Queen City Beauty Group and a board-certified aesthetician in North Carolina
- Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist with Dermatology Physicians of Connecticut
Why We Love It
Refines skin texture and tone
Supports collagen production and conserves elastin
What to Consider
It's a splurge
"I know it's a splurge, but this vitamin C serum is worth every penny," says Oprah Daily beauty editor Genesis Rivas. It contains a unique form of vitamin C (sodium ascorbate) that helps to protect against free radical damage and supports the skin's ability to conserve elastin. It also stimulates collagen production, refines skin texture and tone, and reduces signs of aging, such as wrinkles. "It's a moisturizing texture that doesn't smell like other formulas and isn't irritating."
Key ingredients: | Vitamin C and green tea |
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Size: | 1.0 fl oz |
Skin type: | Dry, mature, sensitive, redness-prone, or uneven skin tone and texture |
Cruelty-free: | Yes |
Why We Love It
Moisturizing
Firms fine lines and wrinkles
Fades discoloration
What to Consider
It's a splurge
This vitamin C is packed with ingredients that help to smooth skin, boost radiance, and hydrate. In addition to 20 percent vitamin C, the formula contains turmeric and pomegranate cells, which help to fade the look of discoloration and improve skin firmness. Those with concerns of fine lines and wrinkles will love its ability to target signs of aging. It's also an oil-based formula so it's very moisturizing, making it a great choice for dry skin. "I'm not usually a fan of oil-based serums, but this one is luxuriously hydrating without feeling greasy or heavy," says Rivas.
Size: | 1 oz |
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Key ingredients: | Vitamin C, tumeric, and pomegranate cells |
Skin type: | Dry, mature, or discoloration |
Cruelty-free: | Yes |
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Why We Love It
Good for sensitive skin
Lightweight
Offers a glowing finish
What to Consider
Some reviewers say it can feel a little sticky as it dries down
A 5 percent concentration of vitamin C helps tone and improve the appearance of dark spots without irritating sensitive skin. This formula also contains plenty of hydrating and plumping ingredients, like magnesium PCA, jojoba oil, shea butter, and sunflower seed oil. In a study conducted by the brand, 90% of people (between the ages of 18 and 55) said their skin looked and felt smoother after four weeks of use. The lightweight texture sinks easily into the skin and layers well with other skincare. It also makes your skin look radiant and healthy post-application.
Key ingredients: | Vitamin C, magnesium PCA, jojoba oil, shea butter, and sunflower seed oil |
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Size | 1.0 fl oz |
Skin type: | Dry, dull, uneven texture, or dark spots |
Cruelty-free: | Yes |
4
Best Vegan Vitamin C Serum
Drunk Elephant C-Firma Vitamin C Day Serum
Why We Love It
Lasts a long time
Increases firmness
Reduces look of large pores
What to Consider
Requires a two-step process
Because vitamin C expires very quickly, this product is packaged with two separate parts that you mix together before using so it lasts a long time. It also ensures that the ingredients are fully active and ready to brighten up and improve your skin. In addition to L-ascorbic acid, which improves hyperpigmentation and the look of fine lines and wrinkles, it contains ferulic acid, another potent antioxidant, and moisturizing vitamin E.
Key ingredients: | L-absorbic acid, ferulic acid, and vitamin E |
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Size: | 1.0 fl oz |
Skin type: | Dry, dull, mature, or uneven skin texture and tone |
Cruelty-free: | Yes |
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Why We Love It
Great for all skin types
Highly rated on Amazon
Budget-friendly
What to Consider
Some customers don't like the smell
Shainhouse says this is one of the best vitamin C serums available, and Amazon reviewers agree: Thousands of users give the product five stars, with some touting it as the best product they’ve ever used. What makes it so great? It contains 22 percent vitamin C—more than most other serums—and it’s suitable for all skin types, making it a great choice for the face. It's also more affordable than other options. Not to mention, it also includes hydrating hyaluronic acid and antioxidants that protect the skin.
Key ingredients: | Vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and ferulic acid |
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Size: | 1.15 fl oz |
Skin type: | All skin types, especially dry |
Cruelty-free: | Yes |
6
Best Vitamin C Serum on Amazon
TruSkin Naturals Vitamin C Serum
Why We Love It
Highly rated
Fades hyperpigmentation
Wallet-friendly
What to Consider
AHA's can be drying on some skin types
When it comes to vitamin C serum, this “Amazon Choice” product is an all-time favorite, with thousands of glowing reviews. It's also one of the most wallet-friendly vitamin C serums you can get, but it’s just as effective, says Shainhouse. It's a vegan-friendly formula that's loaded with glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid that gently exfoliates the skin to help brighten and reduce hyperpigmentation over time.
Key ingredients: | Vitamin C, vitamin E, and hyaluronic acid |
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Size: | 1 oz |
Skin type: | All skin types, especially dry |
Cruelty-free: | Yes |
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7
Best Budget Vitamin C Serum
The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%
Why We Love It
Affordable
High concentration of vitamin C
What to Consider
May be irritating if you have very sensitive skin
While the affordable price point on its own makes this vitamin C serum enticing (it's less than $10!!), it's also very effective. It contains a high concentration of vitamin C at 23 percent and it targets uneven skin tone and texture, such as fine lines and wrinkles. Over time, it unveils a brighter and smoother complexion. It's also worth mentioning that it's vegan, cruelty-free, and formulated without oil, alcohol, silicone, nuts, gluten, and fragrance.
Key ingredients: | L-Ascorbic Acid |
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Size: | 1.0 fl oz |
Skin type: | Dry or uneven skin texture |
Cruelty-free: | Yes |
8
Best Vitamin C Serum for Sensitive Skin
CeraVe Skin Renewing Vitamin C Serum
Why We Love It
Moisturizing
Affordable
What to Consider
Best to use at night because can cause pilling under makeup
One of the biggest drawbacks of vitamin C as an ingredient is it can be very irritating for some. Luckily, this ultra-gentle formula is made with sensitive skin top of mind. It was developed in partnership with dermatologists, so not only does it contain 10 percent pure vitamin C to brighten, but it also includes essential ceramides which help to protect and restore the skin barrier. You can easily find it at your local drugstore.
Key ingredients: | L-Ascorbic acid, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides |
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Size: | 1.0 fl oz |
Skin type: | Sensitive, dry skin type |
Cruelty-free: | No |
9
Best Vitamin C Serum for Acne Scars
Ole Heriksen Truth Serum
Why We Love It
Reduces discoloration
Oil-free
What to Consider
If you don't like smells, you may not like the citrus scent
Consider this vitamin C serum pure magic for its ability to reduce discoloration caused by acne. It has stabilized vitamin C derivates, meaning it's less likely to cause irritation, and free of oil, making it a great choice for those with combination or oily skin. The lightweight formula contains collagen to help support skin elasticity, orange and green tea extracts to nourish skin, and soothing aloe juice. The fresh citrus scent is a nice bonus, too.
Key ingredients: | Vitamin C, collagen, orange extract, green tea extract, and aloe juice |
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Size | 1.0 oz |
Skin type: | Oily, combination, or acne-prone |
Cruelty-free: | Yes |
10
Best Vitamin C Serum for Oily Skin
Vichy LiftActiv Vitamin C Brightening Skin Corrector
Why We Love It
Lightweight, water-like consistency
Firming
What to Consider
Small bottle
Because the formula is extremely light and contains just 11 clean ingredients (no parabens, silicones, or artificial fragrances), it won’t sting or burn upon application, says Gilbert. Still, it’s potent, delivering brightening results in as few as 10 days. It's also packed with antioxidants and pine polyphenols that work together to protect the skin from environmental aggressors and free radical damage. You can find this option at your local drugstore.
Key ingredients: | Vitamin C, vitamin E, and pine polyphenols |
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Size: | 20 ml |
Skin type: | Oily, sensitive, or normal skin |
Cruelty-free: | Yes |
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11
Best Vitamin C Serum for Mature Skin
Juice Beauty Green Apple Age Defy Serum
Why We Love It
Smooths fine lines and wrinkles
Hydrating
What to Consider
Might be irritating to sensitive skin types
Trying to combat the signs of aging? Try this serum, says Mosley. It combines the benefits of the coenzyme Q10 and vitamin C—two ingredients that help eradicate fine lines and wrinkles. It also contains peptides, which are a gold star ingredient for keeping skin firm and plump. The plant-based serum also includes hyaluronic acid, a lightweight but effective hydrator. Your skin will look smoother, softer, and more radiant with continued use.
Key ingredients: | Vitamin C, alpha lipoic acid, CoQ10, and peptides |
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Size: | 1.0 fl oz |
Skin type: | Dry, mature, or sensitive skin |
Cruelty-free: | Yes |
12
Best Vitamin C Serum for Redness
Sunday Riley C.E.O. Vitamin C Brightening Serum
Why We Love It
Lightweight
Reduces look of dark spots and enlarged pores
Supports skin barrier
What to Consider
Pricey
This Sunday Riley serum is formulated with THD ascorbate—a highly stable and oil-soluble formula of vitamin C that quickly penetrates the skin to leave it visibly smoother and brighter. Plus, this serum contains a phytosterols complex that helps reduce redness and promote a more even complexion. Saccharide isomerate extract is an ingredient that helps improve the appearance of large pores and supports the skin barrier. Upon immediate application, you'll appreciate the way it makes skin look radiant and healthy.
Key ingredients: | Vitamin C, phytosterols complex, and saccharide isomerate extract |
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Size: | 1.0 fl oz |
Skin type: | All skin types, especially dry or dull |
Cruelty-free: | Yes |
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13
Dermatologist-Favorite Vitamin C Serum
Obagi Medical Professional-C Vitamin C Serum
Why We Love It
Highly concentrated formula for effective results
Hydrating
What to Consider
It's a splurge
Gohara calls vitamin C serum the little black dress of the beauty world. “It makes everyone look great,” she says. Her favorite is this one—a highly concentrated formula that helps reduce signs of aging, brightens dark spots, promotes a more even skin tone, and leaves skin feeling silky soft. In addition to vitamin C, it contains hyaluronic acid, a moisturizing ingredient that makes skin look plump and radiant. Not to mention, it also protects the skin to prevent future signs of aging or sun damage.
Key ingredients: | Vitamin C and hyaluronic acid |
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Size: | 1 oz |
Skin type: | All skin types, especially dry |
Cruelty-free: | Yes |
14
Best Luxury Vitamin C Serum
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic
Why We Love It
Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
Evens out skin tone
What to Consider
Has a strong scent
You might have heard of this iconic formula at one point or another for its effective formula and high concentration of vitamin C. “This pricey cult-favorite is great under daily sunscreen and makeup and can be reapplied to clean skin at bedtime,” says Shainhouse. The result is finer lines, firmer skin, and a brighter complexion. And don’t worry: A little bit goes a very long way, so you can savor every drop of this very expensive formula.
Key ingredients: | Vitamin C, vitamin E, and ferulic acid |
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Size: | 1.0 fl oz |
Skin type: | Dry, mature, or those concerned with hyperpigmentation and uneven tone |
Cruelty-free: | No |
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Why We Love It
Boosts radiance
Helps firm skin
What to Consider
Even though it's unscented, it has a faint clinical smell
If you're looking to re-awaken dull or sallow-looking skin, then this oil-free serum has your name written all over it. It's made with a powerful blend of L-absorbic acid, vitamin E, and ferulic acid that brighten, even out complexion, and support collagen production to diminish the look of fine lines and wrinkles. Meanwhile, hyaluronic acid and aloe vera give the serum a light-as-water texture that's like a glass of water for your skin.
Key ingredients: | L-ascorbic acid,Vitamin EFerulic acid |
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Size: | 1.0 oz |
Skin type: | Dull, dry, combination, or mature skin |
Cruelty-free: | Yes |
How We Chose the Best Vitamin C Serums
We've researched, tested, and sifted through reviews to find the most effective formulas available on the market. We also interviewed dermatologists to get insight on their favorite picks and what to look for. Ahead, these face-brightening-and-tightening formulas—suitable for a wide range of skin concerns, including acne, hyperpigmentation, oiliness, dryness, and sensitivity—are the best vitamin C serums money can buy.
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FAQ
What does vitamin C do?
- Vitamin C is an antioxidant that fights fine lines by stimulating collagen
- It brightens your complexion by blocking excess pigment creation
- It protects your skin from damaging environmental stressors
Why should you use a vitamin C serum?
- The aging process reduces the skin's natural levels of antioxidants, leaving skin with more lines and less glow as you get older
- Regularly using vitamin C will improve the look of your skin overall, so you can save money on primer, foundation, concealer, and highlighter
What should you look for in a vitamin C serum?
- Skip creams spiked with vitamin C and instead choose a serum, which will more effectively penetrate the skin barrier
- L-ascorbic acid is a more potent form of vitamin C, so check the ingredient label for that specifically
- Vitamin C is unstable, especially when exposed to air and light, so pick a formula that comes in an airtight pump or opaque bottle, and keep it away from direct sunlight
How do you use a vitamin C serum?
- Apply after cleansing but before moisturizing for optimal results
Genesis Rivas
Genesis Rivas is the Beauty Editor at Oprah Daily, where she covers hair, makeup, skin, nails, and more. Before joining the Oprah Daily team, she wrote for several publications, including InStyle, Real Simple, and Shape. When she’s not testing, researching, and writing fun and educational beauty content, you can find her dancing and eating her way through New York City. Follow her on Instagram or TikTok