Vitamin C is arguably one of the most talked about ingredients in the skincare game — but that’s also because it’s one of the most effective. It a nutshell, vitamin C is an antioxidant that neutralises free radicals, or an unstable atom that can damage cells (including those in the skin). Sun exposure, pollution, smoking and general urban lifestyles can all contribute, eventuating in skin that’s dull, lacklustre and pigmented. But the good news in that an effective topical vitamin C can prevent it from happening — it’s just all about knowing where to look.
We thought we’d round up some of our favourite vitamin C formulas for all skin types whether that’s dull, dry or oily (the single common denominator being that they deliver glow in spades). Keep scrolling to find the best one for you.
Sunday Riley C.E.O 15% Vitamin C Brightening Serum
BEST FOR: DULL SKIN
This serum combines 15% THD ascorbate (a stable, oil-soluble form of vitamin C) with exfoliating glycolic acid and water-binding humectant acid for a powerful skin-brightening effect. While nourishing thanks to its milky texture and the inclusion of ingredients like jojoba, Sunday Riley’s C.E.O Glow is great for anyone with a thick, dull, lacklustre complexion.
Dermalogica Biolumin-C Serum
BEST FOR: LINES AND WRINKLES
Packed with ingredients designed to brighten, firm and protect (think peptides, vitamin C, alpha-hydroxy acids and plant oils), this serum from Dermalogica works to improve collagen and elastin production for skin that’s smooth, bouncy and bright. With time, it should soften the look of skin laxity and fine lines.
Perricone MD Vitamin C Ester Serum
BEST FOR: SUN DAMAGE
Perricone MD is famous for its vitamin C serum, thank s to its brightening and strengthening properties. The secret lies in the antioxidant-rich formulation, combining vitamin c esters with ferulic acid, hyaluronic acid and vitamin e to firm, smooth and illuminate. It’s gentle, but still works effectively to correct discolouration and sun damage.
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Antioxidant Serum
BEST FOR: DRY SKIN
Arguably one of the most iconic vitamin C serums out there, CE Ferulic is a lightweight but nourishing serum that decreases lines and wrinkles without dryness or irritation. The antioxidant trio of vitamin c, e and ferulic acid protect against environmental damage, leaving the complexion bright, even and youthful. While it does stink, the results are 100% worth it.
Glow Recipe Guava Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum
BEST FOR: PIGMENTATION & ACNE MARKS
This silky serum not only looks phenomenal the instant it slides on (hi, glassy finish), but it also contains a cocktail of brightening ingredients to brighten up the look of pigmentation, acne scars and dark spots. There’s five forms of stabilised vitamin C plus tranexamic acid and guava to subtly lift excess melanin for improved skin clarity over time.
Rationale #2 The Hydrogel
BEST FOR: SENSITIVE SKIN
This lightweight gel-cream is a departure from your run of the mill serum-like consistency, but it still combines stable vitamin C with enzymes, Australian botanicals and what’s called “microshperes” to not only comfort and brighten the skin, but also protect it from UV and pollution. It’s also supremely hydrating, making it a great choice for normal to dry, sensitive or reactive skin types.
La Roche Posay Redermic Pure C10 Vitamin C Serum
BEST FOR: COMBINATION AND OILY SKIN
Hydrating but non-sticky, this wallet-friendly serum from La Roche-Posay combines 10% vitamin C with salicylic acid to subtly brighten, refine and decongest the skin. Because a beta-hydroxy acid is present, it’s a stellar choice for those who are oily or acne-prone.
Alpha H Vitamin C Serum
BEST FOR: NORMAL SKIN
From Alpha H comes this excellent all-rounder serum. Combining vitamin C with botanical extracts (including licorice and grape seed oil) to deliver superior antioxidant support, this formula uses a 10% concentration of ethyl ascorbic acid to give dull, pigmented skin a boost.
This story originally appeared on GRAZIA International.