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Vitamin C serum is a facial skin care product that delivers a high dose of vitamin C. The skin absorbs vitamin C serum quickly, and the product may offer a range of benefits to skin health.
This article lists the best vitamin C serums a person can consider, discusses the benefits of vitamin C for the skin, and answers some frequently asked questions.
- Best for sustainable packaging: Drunk Elephant C-Firma Fresh Day Serum | Skip to review
- Best for oily skin: PCA Skin C-Quench Antioxidant Serum | Skip to review
- Best noncomedogenic: RoC Multi Correxion Revive + Glow Daily Serum | Skip to review
- Best for sensitive skin: CeraVe Skin Renewing Vitamin C Serum | Skip to review
- Best organic: Éminence Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Serum | Skip to review
- Best for wrinkles: L’Oréal 10% Pure Vitamin C Serum | Skip to review
- Best for brighter skin: Paula’s Choice C15 Super Booster | Skip to review
- Best with sunscreen: Supergoop! Daily Dose Vitamin C + SPF | Skip to review
- Best for dry skin: Peter Thomas Roth Potent-C Power Serum | Skip to review
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.
Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more.
Best for sustainable packaging: Drunk Elephant C-Firma Fresh Day Serum
- Skin type: normal, dry, combination, and oily
- Dose: 15% vitamin C
- Size: 0.87 fluid ounces (fl oz)
- Shelf life (once opened): 6 months
- Price: around $78
The manufacturer claims this face serum reduces the signs of aging and skin damage by dissolving dead cells and hydrating the skin.
It has 15% vitamin C potency, with a composition of 15% l-ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% vitamin E. It has a pH of 2.5. The company says this product is free from fragrance, colorants, essential oils, and silicones. It also says that it is vegan, cruelty-free, and comes in recyclable packaging.
Users prepare the serum by mixing two components into a vial and shaking. Drunk Elephant states it then stays fresh for 6 months. Further instructions are available on the website.
However, there is a risk that users will not mix the product correctly, and some users note that it is difficult to mix.
Users should apply the serum in the morning. It stays active on the skin for up to 3 days.
Pros
- stays active on the skin for up to 3 days
- mixing the formula at home maximizes its potency
- it stays fresh for 6 months after mixing
- fragrance- and cruelty-free, vegan
Cons
- risk of user mistakes during mixing
- some report it is difficult to mix
- the company does not recommend it for sensitive skin
Best for oily skin: PCA Skin C-Quench Antioxidant Serum
- Skin type: oily
- Main ingredients: vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, botanical actives, and stem cells actives
- Size: 1 fl oz
- Shelf life: not stated
- Price: around $125
PCA Skin claims this serum hydrates and strengthens the skin, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
People with oily skin who may have problems with acne can apply it twice a day.
The product is free of parabens, artificial fragrances, and dyes. However, it contains alcohol and witch hazel, which can be irritating. It also contains orange and grapefruit peel oils, which can be sensitizing, especially for people with sensitive skin.
A person can order the PCA Skin C-Quench Antioxidant Serum online for around $125.
Learn about reducing oily skin.
Pros
- it may reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- suitable for oily or acne-prone skin
- may protect the skin against free radicals and pollutants
Cons
- contains alcohol and witch hazel, which can be irritating
- orange and grapefruit peel oils can irritate sensitive skin
- expensive
Best for noncomedogenic: RoC Multi Correxion Revive + Glow Daily Serum
- Skin type: dry
- Main ingredients: 10% concentration of vitamin C, plus peptides, antioxidants, and hydrators
- Size: 1 fl oz
- Shelf life: not stated
- Price: around $33
RoC claims this product can improve skin tone, texture, elasticity, and brightness while reducing the appearance of lines and wrinkles.
The company writes that a person may see results within 1–4 weeks.
Plus, according to the company’s description, this serum is free from parabens and is noncomedogenic. However, it contains fragrance, fruit extracts, and limonene, which may not be suitable for some people.
People can use this serum daily, in the morning or evening.
Learn more about noncomedogenic skin care.
Pros
- may produce results in 1–4 weeks
- may improve skin tone and reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles
- noncomedogenic
- affordable
Cons
- contains fragrance, fruit extracts, and limonene
- numerous reviewers claimed it caused breakouts
- others did not see a noticeable difference in their skin
Best for sensitive skin: CeraVe Skin Renewing Vitamin C Serum
- Skin type: all
- Main ingredients: 10% of vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5, and ceramides
- Size: 1 fl oz
- Shelf life: 6 months
- Price: around $29
CeraVe claims this serum helps even out skin tone, improve the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, and protect the skin. It writes that its products are developed with dermatologists.
The serum is free from parabens and fragrances. The company tests it for people with allergies and says it is noncomedogenic, meaning it will not block pores.
One advantage of CeraVe products is that they contain ceramides to help rebuild the skin barrier. Other positives include the addition of cholesterol, dimethicone, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid to hydrate and moisturize the skin.
It is suitable for daily use for all skin types, including sensitive skin and acne-prone skin.
Pros
- tested with people with allergies
- noncomedogenic
- contains ceramides to build the skin barrier
- suitable for all skin types
Cons
- some reviewers found this serum caused skin reactions and breakouts
- others found that it did not make a noticeable difference to their skin
Best organic: Éminence Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Serum
- Skin type: all
- Main ingredients: 16% stabilized vitamin C, vitamin C salt, botanical ferulic acid, and hydrolyzed botanical hyaluronic acid
- Size: 1 fl oz
- Shelf life: not stated
- Price: around $115
The manufacturer claims this vitamin C serum brightens and firms the skin while minimizing redness and signs of aging, such as wrinkles.
Its ingredients include stabilized vitamin C, plant-sourced ferulic acid, and natural antioxidants.
Éminence states that the ingredients are organic. The products are cruelty-free and free from parabens, phthalates, sodium lauryl sulfate, and propylene glycol.
However, people with sensitive skin may not find the formula’s lemon and grapefruit oils suitable.
The company recommends this serum for all skin types, and people can use it once or twice per day.
Pros
- organic ingredients
- recommended for all skin types
- may brighten and firm the skin and reduce signs of aging
Cons
- lemon and grapefruit oils may be unsuitable for sensitive skin
- expensive
- a number of buyers commented that the formula seemed watery
Best for wrinkles: L’Oréal 10% Pure Vitamin C Serum
- Skin type: sensitive
- Main ingredients: 10% of vitamin C
- Size: 1 fl oz
- Shelf life: 6 months
- Price: around $33
L’Oréal claims this vitamin C serum can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and improve skin appearance overall.
The company makes it without fragrance, mineral oils, dyes, or water.
The face serum comes in an air-tight tube to protect and maximize the effectiveness of the vitamin C content, which has a potency of 10%.
Some reviewers point out that it can separate into a watery and an oily base. However, many reviewers state that it makes skin smoother and brighter.
The company writes this serum is suitable for all skin types. The user may see results within 2–4 weeks.
Pros
- affordable
- may reduce signs of aging
- may produce results in 2–4 weeks
- does not contain fragrance
Cons
- the formula may separate
- some buyers found that it discolored their skin
- many buyers had issues with the metal container, including rust, breakages, and wasted product
Best for brighter skin: Paula’s Choice C15 Super Booster
- Skin type: all
- Main ingredients: 15% vitamin C, vitamin E, and ferulic acid
- Size: 0.67 fl oz
- Shelf life: 3 months
- Price: around $74
Paula’s Choice offers a range of vitamin C products. The C15 contains a vitamin C concentration of 15%. The brand also sells a 25% concentration for people with stubborn blemishes.
The C15 booster contains glycerin, panthenol, and hyaluronic acid to hydrate and protect the skin.
The company writes it has a lightweight, fluid texture that may suit people with oily skin.
This product comes in a smaller size than many other serums. Additionally, some reviewers say they found that it irritated their skin. However, many other reviews write that it effectively reduced the appearance of sunspots and felt lightweight on the skin.
Paula’s Choice recommends using it twice daily and combining it with sunscreen during the day.
Pros
- higher concentration of vitamin C than other products
- lightweight formula that may suit oily skin
- comes in a stronger formula for stubborn blemishes
Cons
- short shelf life
- small product size
- some buyers found that it irritated their skin
- expensive for a small product
Best with sunscreen: Supergoop! Daily Dose Vitamin C + SPF
- Skin type: all
- Main ingredients: 3-O-ethyl ascorbic acid, glycerin, avobenzone, and homosalate
- Size: 1 fl oz
- Shelf life: not stated
- Price: around $46
This product contains niacinamide to improve skin tone, fade pigmentation, and keep the skin looking smooth.
The company sells it in a spray bottle, which can be easier to apply over larger areas of skin than with pipettes, which many products use.
The brand claims it formulates this serum without fragrances and essential oils.
One advantage of this product is that it contains an SPF 40 sunscreen that can protect against ultraviolet A and B (UVA and UVB) rays. However, its UVA protection only includes avobenzone. The company writes that vitamin C “burns off” under sun exposure, so adding SPF to the formula preserves the benefits of vitamin C on the skin.
People who want stronger sun protection should consider using another sunscreen that offers a wider scope of protection.
Supergoop! says this vitamin C serum suits all skin types.
Pros
- contains SPF, which protects the skin and vitamin C content
- recommended for all skin types
- may improve tone
- spray bottle is easy to use
Cons
- UVA protection only includes avobenzone
- a number of users found that it irritated their skin
- others found the formula sticky
Best for dry skin: Peter Thomas Roth Potent-C Power Serum
- Skin type: dry
- Main ingredients: 20% THD ascorbate, vitamin E, ferulic acid
- Size: 1 fl oz
- Shelf life: not stated
- Price: around $90
This serum from Peter Thomas Roth combines 20% vitamin C from THD ascorbate with vitamin E and ferulic acid.
The brand claims this type of vitamin C is 50 times more powerful than traditional vitamin C. It aims to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone.
It also aims to help the appearance of dehydrated skin. It does not contain fragrance, so it may be suitable for people with dry, sensitive skin.
The 3% vitamin E and 2% ferulic acid act as an antioxidant.
The company recommends a person applies this serum twice a day on the face and neck.
A person can order the Potent-C Power Serum online for around $90.
Pros
- suitable for dry skin
- high vitamin C concentration
- may be more powerful than traditional vitamin C
- may be suitable for people with dry, sensitive skin
Cons
- expensive
- the potent formula may be too strong for some
- a number of buyers commented on its unpleasant scent
- others experienced skin rashes after using the product
The table below compares each product for ingredients, price, and more.
| Skin type | Vitamin C source | Vitamin C % | Size (fl oz) | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drunk Elephant | all | l-ascorbic acid | 15% | 0.87 | around $78 |
| PCA Skin | oily | l-ascorbic acid | not stated | 1 | around $125 |
| RoC | dry | 3-O-ethyl ascorbic acid | 10% | 1 | around $33 |
| CeraVe | all | l-ascorbic acid | 10% | 1 | around $29 |
| Éminence | all | l-ascorbic acid and sodium ascorbyl phosphate | 16% | 1 | around $115 |
| L’Oréal | sensitive | l-ascorbic acid | 10% | 1 | around $33 |
| Paula’s Choice | all | l-ascorbic acid | 15% | 0.67 | around $74 |
| Supergoop! | all | 3-O-ethyl ascorbic acid | not stated | 1 | around $46 |
| Peter Thomas Roth | dry | THD ascorbate | 20% | 1 | around $90 |
Medical News Today’s methodology
Medical News Today chooses products that meet the following criteria:
- Price: MNT chooses products available for a wide range of budgets.
- Ingredients: MNT chooses products that list all ingredients.
- Skin concerns: Where appropriate, MNT selects products that target a specific skin concern, such as dryness, oiliness, or aging.
- Safety: MNT chooses products that contain ingredients safe for topical use.
- Reputable: MNT selects products from businesses that adhere to industry best practices.
Experts say the best vitamin C serum should have at least
A person should choose a product containing ingredients that are compatible with their skin type:
- Dry skin: Look for products containing hyaluronic acid, which improves skin hydration. Levels of hyaluronic acid
decrease as a person ages, so those wanting to reduce the signs of skin aging may also wish to try products containing this ingredient. Itmay also address skin dryness, reduced elasticity, and wrinkles. - Sensitive skin: Ceramides may benefit sensitive skin,
including mild to moderate eczema. - Acne-prone skin: People can get a vitamin C serum that contains retinol, which
can treat acne. People can also choose noncomedogenic and oil-free items, meaning they do not clog pores or cause acne breakouts.
When choosing a serum, people should also consider factors such as their budget, whether the packaging is sustainable or recyclable, and customer reviews. They should also always use sunscreen when using a vitamin C serum.
Research into vitamin C and skin is limited, but some scientific work shows the benefits of vitamin C for skin health. According to
Research from 2018 also notes that vitamin C helps form the skin barrier, stimulates collagen, and helps work against skin oxidation.
While the positive impact of nutritional vitamin C on skin health is well established, there is not the same amount of evidence to support the benefits of applying vitamin C directly to the skin.
Another
Expired vitamin C serums
People should stop using products that have become discolored or passed their shelf life. Serums that gradually turn dark orange or brown have oxidized, meaning they are no longer useable or effective.
However, some studies show promising results, and there is widespread interest in using products like vitamin C face serum to prevent and minimize the effects of aging and sun-related skin damage.
The benefits of applying vitamin C to the skin
- support against aging effects
- protection against sun-related skin damage
- vitamin E replenishment
- prevention of dark spots
- help with collagen repair
Learn more about the potential benefits of vitamin C serums.
Older research shows that vitamin C serum is
The authors of the 2018 study also write that balanced skin needs high concentrations of vitamin C. However, people should gradually introduce new skin care products into their routine, patch testing a small amount on clean skin before using it on a larger area of the face. A person may also wish to start with lower concentration options.
People can use vitamin C serum alongside other skin care products. A person should speak with a dermatologist to check that any combinations of products are safe and will be effective. This is because some ingredients can change how well vitamin C works.
People should stop using a product if they experience adverse skin reactions, such as itchiness, redness, discoloration, or tingling.
Below are answers to some top frequently asked questions about vitamin C serums.
Can I use vitamin C and retinol together?
People can use vitamin C and retinol in their skin care routine, but it may be best to alternate the two. This is because they may cause irritation when combined.
Does vitamin C serum really work?
Although research is limited, scientific studies suggest that vitamin C is
How should a person use vitamin C?
People should test a few drops of a new vitamin C serum on their inner arm for a few days to see if the serum causes any irritation. This is called a patch test.
Vitamin C serum is concentrated, which means a few drops or one pump from the container is usually enough to cover the whole face and neck. People should use caution when applying vitamin C around the eyes.
A facial serum is not a moisturizer. Serum should be applied after cleansing and allowed to dry completely. After it has dried, the moisturizer can be applied.
How often should people use vitamin C serum?
People can use a vitamin C serum daily after cleansing and moisturizing their skin. However, some companies also suggest using the product once every other day.
The American Academy of Dermatology Association states that individuals should avoid trying a new product each week to treat acne. It may take some time until they see improvements, so they may have to use a product for 6–8 weeks.
How does vitamin C compare with other types of serum?
Manufacturers formulate a range of face serums to address specific skin concerns. Vitamin C face serum addresses different aspects of skin care than the following products:
- Retinol serums: These include skin care products made from natural or synthetic vitamin A or retinoids. Retinol may help improve skin firmness, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and minimize dark spots. In some people, they can cause irritation, inflammation, stinging, and flaking skin. Learn more about retinol.
- Hyaluronic acid: Hyaluronic acid may help the skin
retain moisture. It can also improve facial wrinkles and folds. - Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs): AHAs, often coming from natural products such as sugar cane or fruits, may help hydrate the skin and exfoliate dead skin cells, making the skin feel smoother.
- Peptides: Peptide derivatives, from chains of amino acids, are used in some face serums to stimulate deep levels of skin tissue. A
2020 study reports they may help reduce wrinkles.
Vitamin C is an important factor in promoting skin health when used nutritionally.
Potential benefits of vitamin C face serum include skin brightening, firming, toning, reducing redness and discoloration, and minimizing signs of aging skin, such as wrinkles and fine lines.
Vitamin C serums also reportedly help protect the skin from further damage.
People interested in vitamin C serum can choose from a range of options. Individuals should consider their unique skin care needs and how a new product will fit into their routine.