A perfect complexion begins with caring for your skin. Using the best skincare products ensures you’ll have a healthy, glowing complexion. One product growing in popularity over the past few years is vitamin C serum. A vitamin C serum helps to promote a clear, radiant complexion, as well as aiding the restoration of damaged skin. If you want your makeup to look good, using a treatment like vitamin C serum will make your skin look beautiful so your base makeup will sit better.
We reviewed dozens of vitamin C serums to identify the best of the best. We examined a range of features, such as formulation, size, price, and average customer reviews.
After searching long and hard, we chose TruSkin Vitamin C Plus Super Serum as our top pick. This vitamin C serum contains a potent blend of active anti-aging ingredients, including 2.5% retinol. It also contains salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to promote a clearer, healthier complexion from deep down.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Vitamin C Serums
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | TruSkin Vitamin C Plus Super Serum | 4.5 |
| Runner Up | CeraVe Vitamin C Serum | 4.4 |
| Best Budget Buy | Wumal Vitamin C Serum and Hyaluronic Acid Serum | 4.5 |
| Best 20% Vitamin C | Eva Naturals Vitamin C Serum | 4.3 |
| Best with Hyaluronic Acid | LilyAna Naturals Vitamin C Serum | 4.4 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Our Top Pick: TruSkin Vitamin C Plus Super Serum
The TruSkin Vitamin C Plus Super Serum is packed with beneficial ingredients for your skin. This serum contains 20% vitamin C, alongside 2.5% retinol and 5% hyaluronic acid to promote anti-aging and increase hydration levels. The formulation is also bursting with soothing aloe, rosehip oil, pink grapefruit oil, and salicylic acid.
The 30 ml dropper bottle of vitamin C contains no artificial ingredients and is made in the USA. The cruelty free product is suitable for all skin types – only a few drops are required 2-3 times per week to increase radiance and a healthier complexion.
TruSkin offer a 100% money back guarantee, so if you’re unhappy with the product you can ask for your money back. This super serum is designed to restore and revistalize your skin, as well as aiding a naturally youthful appearance. While this product isn’t the cheapest serum on our list, its highly effective ingredients, in addition to the high customer rating, make this our top pick.
TruSkin Vitamin C Plus Super Serum Key Features:
- Multi-blend facial serum
- 20% vitamin C
- Cruelty free
Our Runner Up Pick: CeraVe Vitamin C Serum
CeraVe Vitamin C Serum is formulated with 10% vitamin C to brighten and restore the complexion. It also contains hyaluronic acid to improve hydration levels, and vitamin B5 and essential ceramides. The formula is fragrance free, paraben free and doesn’t clog pores.
The 30 ml tube of serum contains the purest form of vitamin C: l-ascorbic acid, which visibly illuminates the skin and protects it from damage. All CeraVe products are developed with dermatologists to provide the best formula for the skin.
This vitamin C serum is housed in a protective tube to prevent oxidation to aid product performance. Priced around $19, this serum is excellent value for money, combining beneficial results with high quality ingredients. The high customer reviews demonstrate that this product is well-liked by consumers who have purchased the product.
CeraVe Vitamin C Serum Key Features:
- 10% vitamin C
- Contains hydrating hyaluronic acid
- Free from fragrance and parabens
Best Budget Pick: Wumal Vitamin C Serum and Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Made of natural and botanical organic ingredients, the Wumal Vitamin C Serum and Hyaluronic Acid Serum set includes both a vitamin C serum and a hyaluronic acid serum at one low budget price. The vitamin C synergistically blends with the botanical hyaluronic acid and vitamin E to hydrate your skin and combat the effects of aging.
This advanced age-defense formula can help treat and prevent acne, reduce scars and blemishes, and moisturize and brighten your skin. The company claims that in 28 days of regular use, 96% of users feel that their dark spots have faded, 94% say they have noticeably smaller pores, and 86% noticed a reduction in the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles.
It can be used day or night, and it absorbs rapidly for soft, hydrated, supple skin without leaving a greasy feeling behind. Paired with the hyaluronic acid serum that you also get in this set, it makes for a powerful anti-aging skincare regimen. Suitable for all skin types, both serums are allergen-free, paraben-free, and cruelty-free. The company stands behind the product with a money-back guarantee if you’re not satisfied with this powerful serum combination for any reason.
Wumal Vitamin C Serum and Hyaluronic Acid Serum Key Features:
- Suitable for all skin types
- Comes with hyaluronic acid serum
- Allergen-free, paraben-free, and cruelty-free
Best 20% Vitamin C Serum: Eva Naturals Vitamin C Serum
Eva Naturals Vitamin C Serum is formulated with 20% vitamin C, 2% retinol, 5% hyaluronic acid, and 2% salicylic acid. This serum is designed to increase radiance and hydration, as well as protecting against skin damaged by UV rays.
This 30 ml bottle of serum contains niacinamide to reduce inflammation and soothe blemished or irritated skin. In addition to helping to clear the skin, this vitamin C serum actively works to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. The natural ingredients nourish the complexion to promote health and wellness.
Made in the USA, Eva Naturals serum is cruelty free and suitable for both men and women. Priced around $14, this serum contains an active blend of ingredients which are suitable for all skin types. With 4.3 out of 5 stars on Amazon, the average customer rating makes this a popular choice with consumers.
Eva Naturals Vitamin C Serum Key Features:
- 20% vitamin C
- Cruelty free
- Natural ingredients
Best Vitamin C Serum with Hyaluronic Acid: LilyAna Naturals Vitamin C Serum
LilyAna Naturals Vitamin C Serum is formulated with 20% vitamin C and 5% hyaluronic acid to boost collagen levels, improve hydration, clarity, texture, and overall appearance of the complexion. With vitamin E to fade scars and fine lines, this vitamin C serum actively works to enhance hydration levels, and restore radiance.
This serum is made in the USA and is cruelty free and vegan friendly. The gentle formulation is suitable for sensitive skin. The company offer a money back guarantee to those who don’t enjoy using this serum. However, with 4.4 out of 5 stars average customer rating on Amazon, it’s a popular choice,
Priced around $20 for a 30g dropper bottle, this serum won’t clog pores or leave an oily residue after use. The effective ingredients promote a clear and healthier complexion so you’ll gain confidence in your skin.
LilyAna Naturals Vitamin C Serum Key Features:
- Cruelty free and vegan
- 20% vitamin C
- 5% hyaluronic acid
Who Should Buy a Vitamin C Serum
Anyone looking to improve the appearance of their complexion should purchase a vitamin C serum. Whether you’re hoping to attain clear skin, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, restore luminosity or fade dark spots, a vitamin C serum can actively enhance your skin.
Most vitamin C serums contain extra ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, to improve hydration levels. Hyaluronic acid can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water, helping to lock in moisture deep down in the skin. Unlike other skincare products, serums target the deeper layers of the skin, meaning you’re more likely to see visible results in a shorter space of time.
Important Features to Consider
- Formulation. Vitamin C serums contain different ingredients. Some contain hydrating hyaluronic acid or additional ingredients, such as salicylic acid to clear blemishes. The best ingredients for your skin depend on your skin type, and what results you’re hoping to achieve.
- Strength of vitamin C used. 20% vitamin C tends to be one of the highest strengths of vitamin C used, meaning you’ll see better results than a serum with 10% vitamin C or less.
- Size. Most vitamin C serums are around 30 ml, but some may contain more or less depending on the brand.
- Price. If you’re on a tight budget, you’ll be searching for a more affordable option. Vitamin C serums tend to vary in price between brands.
- Cruelty free. If you’re a vegetarian or vegan, or you just happen to be cautious about not using products that have been tested on animals, then you’ll require a cruelty free vitamin C serum.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is vitamin C serum and how does it work?
Vitamin C is essentially an antioxidant rich ingredient which protects the skin against damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are uncharged molecules present in pollution, UV rays, and many other elements. When the skin is exposed to free radicals, oxidative stress takes place, which results in cell damage and the inability for skin repair. By protecting the skin, collagen production is boosted and fine lines and wrinkles are softened. Vitamin C also enhances radiance and clears the skin as it’s an anti-inflammatory.
Which type of vitamin C is best for skin?
Ascorbic acid, which is a natural type of vitamin C is generally thought to be the best form for the skin as it plays a part in collagen production, and may help to heal acne.
Does vitamin C fade dark spots?
Yes. Vitamin C inhibits an enzyme known as tyrosinase to prevent the production of melanin. This process helps to fade dark spots without lightening the complexion.
Can vitamin C serum be used at night?
Yes, vitamin C serum should be used at night in between toner and moisturizer. Simply apply 1-2 drops to your fingers and massage into the face and neck in gentle motions. Allow to dry before applying your moisturizer.
Some vitamin C serums can be used daily, but if you’re new to using this type of skincare product, it’s best to use it twice a week to start with to ensure no irritation occurs.
Other Vitamin C Serums We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other vitamin C serums. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best vitamin C serums list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
- 20% Vitamin C Serums
- Vitamin C Serums with Vitamin E
- Vitamin C Serums with Hyaluronic Acid
- Vegan Vitamin C Serums
20% Vitamin C Serums
Amara Beauty 20% Vitamin C Serum
This vitamin C serum is packed with hyaluronic acid, has no sticky residue, and boasts a 100% money back guarantee. It softens fine lines, brightens dark spots, and shrinks pores.
Key Features:
- Vegan
- No parabens or added fragrance
- Contains vitamin E
Cost: $17
Meera’s Beauty Vitamin C Serum
This vitamin C serum contains 60 ml of product and contains hyaluronic acid and vitamin E. There is a 100% refund if you’re not happy within 90 days of purchase.
Key Features:
- Double sized
- Contains soothing aloe vera
- Cruelty free
Cost: $13
Timeless Skin Care Vitamin C Serum
Formulated with ferulic acid to extend the effectiveness of the product, this serum is made in the USA. It’s designed to promote healthier, more youthful skin.
Key Features:
- Cruelty free
- Fragrance free
- No added color
Cost: $17
Containing hyaluronic acid and vitamin E, this vitamin C serum is free from alcohol and parabens. It helps to reduce wrinkles, fade scars, and improve skin texture.
Key Features:
- Vegan and cruelty free
- Organic herbal infusion
- Amino complex to enhance elasticity
Cost: $15
This serum boasts hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, jojoba oil, aloe, and ferulic acid. Citrus stem cell complex tones, brightens, and promotes youthfulness.
Key Features:
- Cruelty free
- Free from parabens and artificial ingredients
- 60 ml bottle
Vitamin C Serums with Vitamin E
A wrinkle reducer and dark spot corrector, this serum also contains hyaluronic acid and ferulic acid to promote anti-aging. Made in the USA, this cruelty free serum feels lightweight and non-greasy.
Key Features:
- Made without artificial ingredients
- Sea buckthorn oil protects the skins natural barrier
- Plant stem cells nourish the skin
Cost: $18
A 20% vitamin C serum, this product increases radiance, improves the appearance of wrinkles, and enhances skin tone. Comes with 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Key Features:
- Contains hyaluronic acid
- Cruelty free
- 100% natural
Cost: $7
Formulated with hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and aloe, this vitamin C serum firms, soothes, and hydrates for luminous, youthful skin.
Key Features:
- Vegan and cruelty free
- Made in the USA
- Natural and organic ingredients
Cost: $22
Paula’s Choice Boost C15 Super Booster
With 15% vitamin C, vitamin E, and ferulic acid, this serum effectively brightens and diminishes signs of aging. It also contains peptides to promote healthy skin.
Key Features:
- Can be used alone or mixed with moisturizer
- Made in the USA
- Fragrance free
Cost: $47
This serum combines 20% vitamin C with vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, and ferulic acid to brighten and increase firmness. Suitable for all skin types.
Key Features:
- Developed by a dermatologist
- 100% money back guarantee
- Paraben free
Vitamin C Serums with Hyaluronic Acid
Derma E Vitamin C Concentrated Serum
Formulated with hyaluronic acid to nourish the skin, this vitamin C serum is 100% natural to enhance luminosity, and support collagen health.
Key Features:
- Vegan
- 60 ml
- Contains aloe to soothe
Cost: $18
This vitamin C serum contains 40 ml of product to rejuvenate the skin, and deeply nourish. The non-sticky formula feels cool and fresh on the skin.
Key Features:
- 15% vitamin C
- All natural
- Mild formulation
Cost: $13
Asterwood Naturals Vitamin C Serum
This serum with organic hyaluronic acid is designed to decrease sun spots and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. There is a 100% money back guarantee if you’re not satisfied.
Key Features:
- Cruelty free
- Paraben and fragrance free
- PH balanced vitamin C
Cost: $12
Lumene Valo Vitamin C Glow Boost Essence
This serum uses two types of hyaluronic acid to plump and smooth the skin. Contains cloudberry seed oil, which is rich in omega 3 and 6 fatty acids to nourish the complexion.
Key Features:
- Contains pure Arctic spring water to restore the skin
- Made in Finland
- Hydrates and enhances radiance
Cost: $24
A fragrance free vitamin C serum with hyaluronic acid. This serum boasts a lightweight texture, and contains no parabens or sulfates.
Key Features:
- Cruelty free
- Dermatologist tested
- Suitable for all skin types
Vegan Vitamin C Serums
This vegan vitamin C serum is packed with natural ingredients to protect, revitalize, and restore the complexion. Made in the USA and cruelty free.
Key Features:
- Paraben free
- Contains vitamin E, jojoba oil, and aloe vera
- Witch hazel helps to clear the complexion
Cost: $10
Fleur & Bee Nectar of The C Vitamin C Serum
This vegan serum contains 15% vitamin C, vitamin E, ferulic acid, and jojoba oil to gently hydrate, brighten, and tone. Only 10% natural ingredients are used in the formula.
Key Features:
- Dermatologist tested
- 30 day satisfaction guarantee
- 1% of sales are donated to charity
Cost: $25
With konjac root, hyaluronic acid, and ferulic acid, this vegan vitamin C serum helps to alleviate blemishes, and restore brightness.
Key Features:
- Contains a stabilized form of vitamin C
- Only natural ingredients are used
- GMO free
Cost: $27
Containing hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and ferulic acid, this vitamin C serum is vegan and cruelty free. Designed to promote youthfulness and hydrate.
Key Features:
- 60 ml bottle
- Made in the USA
- Paraben, sulfate, and alcohol free
Cost: $20
Youth to The People Superfood Serum
Packed with vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, peptides, and kale, this superfood serum is 100% vegan. Made in this USA, this serum repairs, brightens, hydrates, protects, and softens.
Key Features:
- Contains no artificial ingredients
- Light gel serum
- No scent
Cost: $62
