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What should you be looking for in a vitamin C serum? Experts weigh in

Skin experts also break down what percentage of the ingredient is right for you.
Woman holding a bottle of serum
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You’ve probably heard that you should be incorporating a vitamin C serum into your skin care routine, but aren’t quite sure why. Vitamin C is a powerful ingredient that not only protects your body from environmental aggressors and boosts your immune system (hello, flu season), but it can also have an incredibly beneficial impact on the health of your skin.

What does vitamin C serum do for my skin?

Collagen production naturally peaks in your early 20s and then decreases every decade thereafter; that's why it’s essential to add vitamin C to your anti-aging skin care routine. It's a potent antioxidant that can help your body neutralize harmful free radicals and prevent the breakdown of collagen as much as possible.

“When applied topically, vitamin C reduces damage to our cells by neutralizing free radicals — which are highly reactive — and harmful molecules formed by exposure to environmental stressors (think pollution, UV light, etc.),” explains Dr. Corey L. Hartman, a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, Alabama. Excessive exposure to free radicals can degrade collagen, which can lead to dull, saggy skin, according to the derm.

Dr. Joshua Zeichner, Director of Clinical and Cosmetic Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, echoes this, adding that vitamin C is the best-studied antioxidant we have to treat the skin. In addition to the neutralization of free radicals, Zeichner says vitamin C serves two other main functions:

"Second, it blocks the production of abnormal pigmentation to help lighten dark spots and even skin tone. Third, it is an essential co-factor in the production of healthy collagen," Zeichner explains.

Ready to learn more? Use the links below to read more about this potent ingredient, our list of the best vitamin C serums on the market, and how to find the right one for you.

What if I have sensitive skin? | What to look for | Best under $25 | Best under $50 | Best body lotions | Best organic | How we chose | Meet our experts

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Dermatologist-approved vitamin C serums

Can I use vitamin C serums if I have sensitive skin?

The good news: Yes, you can use vitamin C serums if you have sensitive skin.

“L-ascorbic acid is pure vitamin C, which is the most potent and refined version of vitamin C,” explains Hartman. “Skin care products with higher concentrations of L-ascorbic acid tend to be higher in price and may not be suitable for people with sensitive skin or for someone who has never tried vitamin C before,” he adds.

If you have sensitive skin, look for skin care products that use magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, a water-soluble and less potent version of vitamin C — meaning it will be less irritating on the skin.

“It’s also a good idea to do a patch test if you have sensitive skin or haven’t used vitamin C before,” suggests Hartman. “Put a small drop of your vitamin C serum on the skin on the underside of your wrist. Let it sit there for 24 hours, and if you do not experience any kind of irritation, slowly start to incorporate the product into your skin care routine,” he explains.

Kara Birnbaum / TODAY

What to look for in a vitamin C serum

  • Percentage: When on the hunt for a great vitamin C serum for your skin, you first want to look at the percentage of the ingredient in the product. “The sweet spot tends to be between 10 to 20% —anything below 10% won’t be as effective, and anything over 20% would be too irritating to the skin,” explains Hartman.
  • Other ingredients that pair well: Vitamin C pairs well with other popular skin care ingredients. Hartman recommends looking for vitamin C products with complementary active ingredients to get the most bang for your buck. These include ferulic acid, caffeine, vitamin E and hyaluronic acid. “Vitamin C does not pair well with retinol or AHAs,” explains Hartman. “Most people will use a vitamin C serum in their morning routine, so leave the retinol and AHAs for your evening skin care routine.”
  • Proper packaging: Pure vitamin C (aka L-ascorbic acid) is the least stable form of vitamin C and can lose its effectiveness if exposed to light and air. “A dark or tinted bottle is best to reduce light and airless delivery; a pump is ideal,” explains Hartman. “If you choose a vitamin C serum with a dropper delivery system, just make sure you tightly secure the bottle after use each day to prolong its effectiveness.”

Best serums under $25

L'Oréal Revitalift Derm Intensive Vitamin C Serum

What we like
  • "Holy grail" product. 
  • Reviewers love the "smooth, creamy" texture. 
Something to note
  • Some reviewers with sensitive skin experienced irritation or allergic reactions. 
  • Some reviewers experienced issues with delivery. 

Size: 1 oz. tube | Fragrance-free? Yes | % of vitamin C: 10 | Other notable active ingredients: N/A

Using 10% pure vitamin C, this drugstore, derm-approved staple restores radiance to the skin in just one week. The brand also boasts that users can see visible anti-aging benefits at the two-week mark, too.

Hartman is a big fan of this product. “L'Oréal Revitalift Derm Intensive Vitamin C Serum is a nice option for first-time vitamin C users,” he explains. “At 10%, it will still be effective, but mild enough so that it does not cause irritation.”

"I used to use this and it's a great price point, really helps with texture and fades dark spots. It's thick so can actually be used as a moisturizer," says associate editor Shannon Garlin.

e.l.f. Beauty Shield Vitamin C Serum

What we like
  • Easy to apply.
  • "Lightweight and fresh" feel.
Something to note
  • Some noted delivery issues.

Size: 0.95 oz. tube | Fragrance-free? No | % of vitamin C: Does not specify | Other notable active ingredients: Vitamin E, pomegranate extract

Pack this miniature-sized serum for on-the-go touchups when you need a little extra hydration or brightening. Reviewers love this easy-to-apply serum, which should be put on right before your moisturizer.

"It makes my skin feel smooth and brighter," one says, while another adds that it left their skin feeling "dewy and supple."

Bubble Skin Care Day Dream Vitamin C Serum

What we like
  • Beginner-friendly.
Something to note
  • Some experienced breakouts.

Size: 1 oz. tube | Fragrance-free? Yes | % of vitamin C: Does not specify | Other notable active ingredients: Niacinamide

Touted as a beginner-friendly brand, especially as younger demographics express an interest in skin care, this vitamin C serum from Bubble Skin Care is made with clean ingredients suited for all skin types.

Reviewers love this affordable add to their routine because it's a "great way" to incorporate two ingredients at once (vitamin C and niacinamide) without breaking the bank.

TruSkin Vitamin C Serum for Face

What we like
  • "Light and smooth" texture. 
  • "Absorbs quickly" in the skin, results are visible almost immediately. 
Something to note
  • Strong scent.
  • Reviewers recommend testing a patch of your skin first, in case you experience irritation or a negative reaction. 

Size: 1 oz. bottle | Fragrance-free? No | % of vitamin C: Did not specify | Other notable active ingredients: Vitamin E, hyaluronic acid

TruSkin's vitamin C serum is a nice budget vitamin C option.

“It’s on the higher end in terms of concentration, so I’d recommend using this serum if you know your skin can tolerate a higher concentration,” suggests Hartman. “It also has vitamin E and hyaluronic acid, which will help add moisture to the skin.”

Best serums under $50

Timeless Vitamin C and E Ferulic Acid Serum

What we like
  • A little goes a long way.
  • "Nothing compares."
Something to note
  • Would prefer a nozzle.
  • Some noted odd scent.

Size: 1, 1.7 and 4 oz. options | Fragrance-free? Yes | % of vitamin C: 20 | Other notable active ingredients: Ferulic acid

Looking for the next holy grail product to add to your skin care routine? Editor Amanda Fama recently started using this in conjunction with the brand's Winter Skin Booster Kit and has noticed a refreshing and hydrating difference in her skin.

Even better is that it doesn't irritate her sensitive skin or cause breakouts. "My complexion is visibly brighter because of it," she says.

La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C Face Serum

What we like
  • Reviewers love its "luxurious, thick consistency." 
  • "Improved the overall brightness" of skin. 
Something to note
  • Some reviewers noted issues with delivery and packaging. 

Size: 1 oz. bottle | Fragrance-free? No | % of vitamin C: 10 | Other notable active ingredients: Salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid

Reduce the appearance of wrinkles, hyperpigmentation and dull skin with this affordable vitamin C option. For best results, apply it in the morning (before your SPF!) and at night under your favorite moisturizer.

Both Hartman and Zeichner recommend this classic to their patients regularly.

Hartman likes this serum because it leaves skin protected and radiant without irritation. “It combines a unique triple anti-aging ingredient complex with concentrated 10% pure vitamin C, salicylic acid and neurosensine [an active molecule known for soothing and anti-aging properties] for optimal effectiveness, while also being suitable for even the most sensitive skin," he explains.

Zeichner agrees, adding that the formulation gives an exfoliating effect. He adds, “This is a great option, especially if you have oily or acne-prone skin.”

Bliss Bright Idea Vitamin C + Tri-Peptide Collagen Serum

What we like
  • "Dries quickly," isn't sticky. 
  • "Works well" under makeup. 
Something to note
  • Reviewers with sensitive skin experienced irritation. 

Size: 1 oz. bottle | Fragrance-free? No | % of vitamin C: Does not specify | Other notable active ingredients: Peptides, green tea extract

This spa-grade serum is packed with a high concentration of vitamin C and tri-peptides, making it a powerhouse anti-aging product. But that’s not all: The formula is vegan, cruelty-free and non-comedogenic, too.

Zeichner likes the Bliss Bright Idea Vitamin C serum because it delivers a stabilized form of vitamin C, along with a peptide. “At the same time, it helps even skin tone and strengthens the skin itself,” he says.

RoC Multi Correxion Revive + Glow 10% Active Vitamin C Serum for Face

What we like
  • "Game-changer" for ones skincare routine. 
  • "Provides great moisture" for dry skin. 
Something to note
  • Some reviewers noted issues with delivery and packaging. 
  • Those with sensitive skin experienced irritation and negative reactions. 

Size: 1 oz. bottle | Fragrance-free? Yes | % of vitamin C: 10 | Other notable active ingredients: Retinol

The RoC Multi Correxion Revive + Glow Vitamin C serum is a great option for all skin types, but especially if you are sensitive.

“The ultra-gentle formula can be used even by people who are dry or who have previously experienced irritation with other vitamin C formulas,” says Zeichner.

Summer Fridays Light Aura Vitamin C Eye Cream

What we like
  • "Smooth and hydrating."
Something to note
  • Cost for size is pricey.
  • Some noted irritation to skin.

Size: 0.5 oz. tub | Fragrance-free? No | % of vitamin C: Does not specify | Other notable active ingredients: Peptides, caffeine, vitamin E

Production coordinator Camryn Privette claims this eye cream is a "game changer." While it's not a serum, its effects are the same — it promises to brighten and wake up the skin under your eyes.

"I started using it over a year ago and it has been a staple in my routine ever since," she says. "My under eyes feel so soft and are noticeably brighter."

Best vitamin C body lotions

Sol de Janeiro Bom Dia Bright Body Cream With Vitamin C

What we like
  • "Works so well and smells absolutely delightful." 
  • "Very moisturizing." 
Something to note
  • Can be costly depending on the size container you purchase. 
  • Some reviewers didn't like the scent. 

Size: 8.1 and 2.5 oz. options | Fragrance-free? No | % of vitamin C: Does not specify | Other notable active ingredients: Fruit AHAs

Not only does this delicious cream smell amazing, but it’s also loaded with AHAs and vitamin C to exfoliate, smooth and visibly brighten the skin. It’s made with a vitamin C ester that slowly delivers free radical protection and a skin-brightening effect over time.

Necessaire The Body Lotion

What we like
  • Reviewers enjoy how it's fragrance-free. 
  • Leaves skin feeling "soft, smooth and hydrated." 
Something to note
  • Extra drying to already dry skin. 
  • Some reviewers noted issues with the packaging and nozzle. 

Size: 2.4, 6.8 and 13.5 oz. options | Fragrance-free? Yes | % of vitamin C: Does not specify | Other notable active ingredients: Niacinamide, vitamins A, B3, E

If you’re sensitive to fragrance but still want to enjoy the brightening benefits of vitamin C, look no further than the Necessaire The Body Lotion. This formula not only boasts vitamin C and E in its ingredient lineup, but it also contains glycerin, peptides, niacinamide and marula oil.

Bonus? This lotion is formulated with a pH level of 4.75 to 5.75, which the brand says helps support the skin's natural pH and barirer function.

Best organic vitamin C serums

Derma E Vitamin C Concentrated Serum

What we like
  • "Perfect" to use under moisturizer or sunscreen. 
  • "Complexion is brighter."
Something to note
  • Some reviewers experienced delivery and packaging issues. 
  • Those with sensitive skin experienced breakouts. 

Size: 2 oz. tube | Fragrance-free? No | % of vitamin C: Does not specify | Other notable active ingredients: Hyaluronic acid

Coming in at less than $25, this option will improve the quality of your skin without breaking your bank account. The best part? Hyaluronic acid works in tandem with a stabilized form of vitamin C to give users a firmer, brighter complexion.

If you need more proof of its efficacy beyond the results of a six-week independent study (95% of participants reported improved skin brightness), take it from this glowing review from a verified Amazon customer: "What I like about this serum is that it does what it claims. It helps hydrate and brighten my face without breaking the bank. It's also sensitive skin friendly. I use this with their vitamin c night cream and always wake up with glowing skin the following day. The serum has a mild citrus scent that is not overpowering either."

Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum

What we like
  • Reviewers saw instant results. 
  • Skin was "smoother, brighter" after continuous use. 
Something to note
  • Reviewers warn that a little goes a long way. 
  • Some reviewers experienced delivery issues. 

Size: 0.5 and 1.02 oz. bottle | Fragrance-free? No | % of vitamin C: Does not specify | Other notable active ingredients: Hyaluronic acid

This organic serum uses sodium ascorbyl phosphate, which is a stable form of vitamin C. Plus, this pick features vitamin E and ferulic acid to treat the signs of aging and protect your skin against environmental aggressors.

One Ulta reviewer writes, "I've only had this product for about two weeks, and I've seen how crazy fast my scars are clearing up. My skin has been looking so much brighter, and my scars are visibly clearing up and lightening." They add that the formula is non-irritating and goes on smoothly on their skin.


How we chose

There are so many vitamin C products on the market, and it’s difficult to discern which are actually effective and which are worth the money. To choose the best vitamin C serums on the market, Shop TODAY referred to two board-certified dermatologists to get their best recommendations for vitamin C serums that they actually recommend to their own patients.

Additionally, our editorial team combed through many vitamin C serums to see which ones had the highest ratings and positive reviews, which ones were or are bestsellers, and which ones we’ve loved from our personal experience.

Meet the experts

  • Dr. Corey L. Hartman, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and founder and medical director of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, Alabama. He also serves as Assistant Clinical Professor of Dermatology at the University of Alabama School of Medicine. Hartman's specialties include dermatologic surgery, injectables, hair restoration and laser treatments.
  • Dr. Joshua Zeichner, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist and Director of Clinical and Cosmetic Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. He specializes in acne treatments, cosmetic rejuvenation and more.