What to look for in vitamin C skin products

Vitamin C is a powerhouse ingredient known for brightening and protecting the skin, but not all formulas are created equal. Here’s what to consider when shopping for vitamin C skin products.

1. Concentration and Form

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Look for products that list L-ascorbic acid or other stable derivatives like magnesium ascorbyl phosphate. A concentration between10-20% is generally effective without being too irritating for most skin types.

2. Packaging

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Vitamin C is sensitive to light and air, so opt for products in opaque, airtight bottles or pumps. This helps maintain the potency and effectiveness of the formula over time.

3. Additional Ingredients

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Formulas with added antioxidants like vitamin E or ferulic acid can boost the efficacy of vitamin C. Hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid can also help minimize irritation and improve results.

4. Skin Type Compatibility

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Choose a product suited to your skin type—serums are ideal for most, while creams may work better for dry or sensitive skin. If you have sensitive skin, start with a lower concentration and patch test first.

  1. 1
    C E Ferulic

    SkinCeuticals

    6,855 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Advanced antioxidant treatment and skin protector designed to defend against photoaging and reveal more youthful skin.
  2. 2
    Tinted Moisturizer Light Revealer Natural Skin Illuminator Broad Spectrum SPF 25
    1,160 REVIEWS
    Reveal your luminosity with Laura Mercier’s secret no makeup, makeup tinted moisturizer with radiant pearls hand selected for each shade.
  3. 3
    Face Serum

    Costa Brazil

    1,029 REVIEWS
    This lightweight Face Serum provides a potent supply of vitamins, omegas and antioxidants to help nourish, brighten and improve the look and feel of skin texture and tone.
  4. 4
    Hyaluronic Serum

    Dr. Barbara Sturm

    971 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Dr. Barbara Sturm’s award-winning Hyaluronic Serum. Clinically proven to visibly slow skin aging and deliver lasting hydration.
  5. 5
    Kakadu Beauty Oil

    RMS Beauty

    791 REVIEWS
    A potent blend of deeply nourishing oils.
  6. 6
    C+C Vitamin Cream

    Natura Bissé

    672 REVIEWS
    Firming cream for dry skin
  7. 7
    Multivitamin Power Recovery Masque
    671 REVIEWS
    Vitamin C and Lactic Acid face mask firms and replenishes skin. Visibly brightens and moisturizes the skin while targeting fine lines and wrinkles.
  8. 8
    Sound Sleep Cocoon

    Dermalogica

    665 REVIEWS
    Nourishing revitalizing gel-cream, brightens and protects skin with antioxidant vitamin C. Promotes restful sleep with french lavender and sandalwood.
  9. 9
    Kakadu Luxe Cream

    RMS Beauty

    629 REVIEWS
    A rich yet lightweight cream packed with skin-firming ingredients to nourish and restore skin’s texture and radiance. 
  10. 10
    Phloretin CF

    SkinCeuticals

    550 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Formulated for daytime use, this antioxidant serum neutralizes free radicals to prevent signs of accelerated skin aging.

What to look for in vitamin C skin products

Vitamin C is a powerhouse ingredient known for brightening and protecting the skin, but not all formulas are created equal. Here’s what to consider when shopping for vitamin C skin products.

1. Concentration and Form

Citrus catapult arrow

Look for products that list L-ascorbic acid or other stable derivatives like magnesium ascorbyl phosphate. A concentration between10-20% is generally effective without being too irritating for most skin types.

2. Packaging

Citrus catapult arrow

Vitamin C is sensitive to light and air, so opt for products in opaque, airtight bottles or pumps. This helps maintain the potency and effectiveness of the formula over time.

3. Additional Ingredients

Citrus catapult arrow

Formulas with added antioxidants like vitamin E or ferulic acid can boost the efficacy of vitamin C. Hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid can also help minimize irritation and improve results.

4. Skin Type Compatibility

Citrus catapult arrow

Choose a product suited to your skin type—serums are ideal for most, while creams may work better for dry or sensitive skin. If you have sensitive skin, start with a lower concentration and patch test first.