Emma Ledger – Contributing Editor
Your definitive guide to the most effective products for brighter, more radiant skin
A vitamin C serum should feature in everyone’s skincare routine; this wonder ingredient has the ability to protect skin, improve elasticity and visibly brighten the complexion. Vitamin C boosts collagen production – in fact, it is essential to collagen synthesis – which is vital in preventing the fine lines and wrinkles associated with the loss of this structural protein.
What is the most effective vitamin C serum?
While almost any vitamin C serum will benefit your skin, in order to get the best results it’s important to find the most effective formula for you.
If you’re new to vitamin C serums, look for a low concentration of L-ascorbic acid (or other type of vitamin C) of around 10 per cent, or mix it with some moisturiser to ease yourself in before gradually building up. If you’re looking for advice for your particular skin type or needs, why not book a free in-store consultation with one of our experts.
In the meantime, here are our picks for the best vitamin C serums to give your skin the ultimate glow.
Best for dark spots
Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Super-C Serum
Clinically proven to help reduce visible signs of pigmentation in as little as five days, Elemis’ advanced serum is designed to leave skin looking visibly more even, brighter and radiant. One of the many happy customers says, “I’m not sure how I lived without it”.
Best-value buy
The Inkey List Vitamin C Serum
This cult serum might be super affordable but it certainly doesn’t scrimp on ingredients. Orange in colour, it absorbs quickly and brightens the skin thanks to pampering oils and 15% vitamin C. A great choice to awaken and plump your skin, whatever your budget.
Best for beginners
Elizabeth Arden Vitamin C Ceramide Capsules Radiance Renewal Serum
If you’re new to vitamin C serums, try these single-dose daily capsules. They also contain ceramides to help prevent moisture loss, perk up tired skin and leave your complexion feeling cared for. Encapsulated for freshness, the unique design is also conveniently travel-friendly.
Best for younger skin
Medik8 C-Tetra Lipid Vitamin C Radiance Serum
A bestseller for good reason, this lightweight formula glides on and easily sinks into skin. Combining vitamins C and E to fight the damage caused by the sun and pollution, it’s also water-free to ensure the ingredients don’t degrade. Apply first thing, add sunscreen, and face the day.
Best for undereyes
Clarins Double Serum Eye
In case you were wondering – yes, you can apply vitamin C to the undereye, as long as you use a product that is created specifically for this delicate area. Such as this one, from Clarins. The fan favourite – formulated with 96% ingredients from natural origin – hydrates and smoothes out fine lines around your eyes.
Best for sensitive skin
Clinique Moisture Surge Active Glow Serum
The first serum from Clinique’s most-loved Moisture Surge line combines vitamin C with powerful actives – lactic acid and hyaluronic acid – yet is gentle enough for the most sensitive skin. It exfoliates, hydrates and brightens the look of skin for an instant, long-lasting glow.
Best for brightening
Trinny London Boost Up 30% Vitamin C Serum
A super-strength 30-per-cent vitamin C serum, this is definitely not for newbies. But, if you’re a regular vit-C user, it’s the ultimate glow-giving shot. With a luxurious, balmy texture, this potent antioxidant is clinically proven to dial up brightness, even skin tone and shield from environmental stressors.
Best for hyperpigmentation and brightening
Skin Rocks The Hyperpigmentation Serum
With peptides that help to achieve a more even skin tone, this highly effective, concentrated serum targets various points of the pigment-production process; it helps fade dark or red marks and sun spots, as well as preventing future hyperpigmentation. If you have any skin discolouration this is The One.
Best for innovation
IRÄYE Skincare Radiance Firming Serum Refillable
This revolutionary serum is the result of over 20 years of research by dermatologist professor Michael Detmar and plastic surgeon Dr. Epa Gousopoulos. Fortified with vitamin C-rich Kakadu plum extract, it works to improve signs of photo-ageing and sun damage, while enhancing collagen levels and improving elasticity to make skin appear firmer.
