The Best Vitamin C Serums To Elevate Your Skincare Routine
Best Vitamin C Serum That You Can Trust For A Bright & Smooth Skin
By Shammi Mondal
We’re sure you’ve heard enough praise about vitamin C, and rightly so. The skincare superstar is a powerful antioxidant that effectively helps lighten dark spot, brightens your complexion and gives your skin a healthy glow. Though the benefits of a vitamin C serum are many, it can get tricky to pick the right one for your skin’s needs. We’re here to help you zero down on the best vitamin C serum for you with a detailed list to help you navigate the options and give your skin a shot of radiance.
Why should you use a vitamin C serum?
Vitamin C is very easy to incorporate into your skincare routine through a moisturiser, face wash or even a face mask, but vitamin C serums are by far the most efficacious. Serums have a higher concentration of vitamin C compared to moisturisers that allows for more potent and targeted delivery to the skin, maximizing the effectiveness of the active. Serums are lighter and more fluid in consistency compared to moisturisers. This makes it easy for the skin to absorb them, allowing the vitamin C to penetrate deeper and work more effectively.
- Combat signs of skin ageing: Vitamin C serum helps boost collagen which gives your skin it’s elasticity, reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and promotes a more youthful complexion.
- Decrease hyperpigmentation: Since it is an antioxidant, vitamin C inhibits the over production of melanin (the pigment responsible for our skin tone), fades dark spots, acne scars, and uneven skin tone, giving you a more even and radiant complexion.
- Even out your skin tone: Since vitamin c serum controls excessive melanin production it helps to minimize redness and fades down the brown spots, giving you smooth even toned skin.
- Protects your skin from sun damage: Although vitamin C alone does not act as a sunscreen, it enhances the effectiveness of sunscreens. Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant and helps neutralize the free radicals and cuts down of the harmful effects of UV radiation improving the efficacy of your sunscreen.
Best vitamin C serums on a budget
Looking for the best vitamin C serums that won't break the bank? We've got you covered! While skincare can sometimes put a dent in your wallet, it doesn't mean you have to compromise on quality. Not only do these serums reduce dark spots and hydrate your skin, but also are a great place to start if your skin is not used to an active ingredient before.
Best luxe vitamin C serums
If you're ready to indulge in the world of luxury skincare, we have a treat for you—these vitamin C serums are the absolute best for your skin. Formulated with a blend of antioxidants, niacinamide, glycerine and hyaluronic acid, these serums will elevate your skincare routine and reveal firmer and brighter-looking skin, while strengthening your skin barrier.
Best high-potency vitamin C serum
If you struggle with dullness and your skin has already adapted to lower concentrations of vitamin C, it’s time you take the big leap. Vitamin C serums with a concentration of 15% and above might be just what you need to achieve a more radiant complexion. The higher concentrations of L-ascorbic acid not only reduce free radical damage, it also gives your skin a boost of youth and brightens your complexion with consistent daily application.
Best vitamin C for sensitive skin
Skin sensitivity does not bar you from enjoying the perks of a good vitamin C serum. Look for a serum that contains a stable form of vitamin C, such as ascorbic acid or sodium ascorbyl phosphate—they are well-tolerated by sensitive skin. Opt for a serum with a lower concentration of vitamin C, typically around 2- 5% that has fragrance-free and silicone-free formulas.
How to choose a vitamin C serum?
Choosing a vitamin C serum for your skin depends on several factors to ensure the best match for your specific needs. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:
Look for L-ascorbic acid: L-Ascorbic Acid is the most potent and effective form of vitamin C in skincare products. Check the ingredient list to ensure the serum contains this form of vitamin C for maximum benefits.
Concentration of vitamin C: Opt for a serum with a concentration of 10-20% vitamin C for effective results without causing irritation. Higher concentrations are often too strong for your sensitive and acne-prone skin types.
Additional antioxidants: Vitamin C works best when combined with other antioxidants like vitamin E and ferulic acid. Look for a serum that includes these ingredients to enhance the serum's overall efficacy and stability.
pH level: The ideal pH level for vitamin C serums is between 3 and 3.5, as this range ensures maximum stability and absorption.
Packaging: Vitamin C is sensitive to light and air, which can reduce its effectiveness over time. Choose a serum that comes in an opaque or dark-coloured glass bottle with an airtight pump or dropper to protect the product from degradation.
How to store vitamin C serums
The efficacy and longevity of your vitamin C serum depends upon how you store them. Here are some tips that help upkeep the effectiveness of your skincare warriors.
- Keep it in a cool, dark place: Vitamin C is sensitive to light and heat, which can degrade its potency. Store your serum in a cool and dark area, such as a drawer, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
- Take a look at the bottle: Pick a vitamin C that is packaged in an opaque or tinted bottle. If your vitamin C serum comes in a transparent glass bottle, consider transferring it to an opaque bottle. This will provide an additional layer of protection against light exposure.
- Keep the lid tightly sealed: Oxygen can also degrade the quality of your vitamin C serum, (it’s often the reason why your serum turns yellowish orange). So, make sure the cap is tightly sealed after each use. This will help prevent air from entering and oxidizing the serum.
FAQs
Q. Is it fine to use a vitamin C serum every day?
A. While it is absolutely safe to use vitamin c serum everyday as it repairs your skin’s daily wear and tear. However, since it is an active ingredient begin with a lower concentration of the same and gradually build to a higher potency.
Q. Which is the best vitamin C serum for oily skin?
A. Make sure you pick a vitamin C serum that is water-based and apply it with niacinamide. The two of these together complement each other and minimize oiliness when used correctly.
Q. Should I use a vitamin C serum in the day or the night?
A. You can apply a vitamin C serum both in the day and the night, however if your apply it during the day make sure you top it up with a broad-spectrum SPF.