Vitamin C Serums

Shop vitamin C serums for brighter, more even skin

Vitamin C serums are one of the most popular skincare treatments for a reason. As an antioxidant, vitamin C helps protect skin from environmental stressors like pollution and UV exposure, while also working to fade dark spots, even out skin tone, and support a brighter overall complexion. Results build up with consistent use rather than overnight, so it's worth picking a formula suited to your skin type and sticking with it.

Choosing a vitamin C derivative for your skin

Different forms of vitamin C suit different skin types. L-ascorbic acid, found in serums like SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic and Medik8 Super C Ferulic, is the most researched and potent form, but can be more likely to irritate sensitive skin. Gentler derivatives like ethyl ascorbic acid, used in the Alpha-H Vitamin C Serum with 10% Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, or ascorbyl glucoside, found in The Ordinary Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12%, tend to be more stable and better tolerated, though they work more gradually.

Vitamin C serums by skin concern

For oily or acne-prone skin, a lightweight, water-based option like COSRX The Vitamin C 13 Serum can brighten without feeling heavy. Drier or more mature skin often does better with a richer formula, such as Dermalogica BioLumin-C Serum, which pairs vitamin C with hydrating and firming ingredients. If you're newer to vitamin C or have reactive skin, starting with a lower concentration like the CeraVe Skin Renewing Vitamin C Serum is a reasonable way to build tolerance before moving to something stronger.

Getting the most from your vitamin C serum

Vitamin C is notoriously unstable, so look for it in airless pump packaging or a dark glass bottle, and store it away from direct sunlight and heat. If a serum has turned dark orange or brown, it's likely oxidised and won't work as well. Apply in the morning after cleansing and before moisturiser and SPF, since the antioxidant protection is most useful during the day, and pair it with a hydrating serum like hyaluronic acid afterwards if your skin needs the extra moisture.