Boasting antioxidant features, vitamin C products are the unsung heroes of an effective morning skin care routine. They come in different forms, but serums seem well-loved the most. It’s potent and light in consistency, making the skin absorb it better than creams and other forms. Here’s everything you need to know about vitamin C serum benefits, guidelines on how to find the best product and some product recommendations.

Vitamin C Serum Benefits

Many reasons will convince you that vitamin C serum is a must-have product. Discover them below.

1. It Protects the Skin From Damage

Your skin is constantly exposed to air pollution and sun exposure, which can cause damage and rob your skin of its luster. Vitamin C has antioxidant properties that help prevent cellular damage and promote better-looking skin.

2. It Has Hydrating Properties

Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate — a vitamin C derivative — has been scientifically proven to provide a hydrating effect on the skin by decreasing transepidermal water loss (TEWL), allowing better moisture retention.

3. It Has Brightening Effects

If your main skin concern is hyperpigmentation, then this product is for you. One of the most marketed and popular vitamin C serum benefits is its ability to help fade hyperpigmentation, such as sunspots, melasma, age spots and healed acne. This is because vitamin C impedes melanin production, downregulating tyrosinase activity. 

4. It Helps Boost Collagen Production

Collagen is something that’s naturally found and produced in the body. However, as you age, collagen production declines, which may lead to fine lines and wrinkles. Vitamin C can help increase collagen production and synthesis, helping decrease the appearance of skin aging. 

5. It Provides Additional Protection Against Sun Damage

Excessive sun exposure can lower vitamin C levels in the skin. Since one of the vitamin C serum benefits is its antioxidant properties, it can help protect healthy skin cells. This is why vitamin C is best paired with sunscreen.

6. It Helps Prevent Skin Sagging

Since vitamin C serum helps boost collagen production, it has an overall tightening effect. If you’re dealing with sagging skin and want to improve it, getting the right vitamin C serum can make your face look firmer and toned.

Possible Side Effects

While vitamin C is generally safe and well-tolerated by any skin type, not all products are created equal. Some research studies show that it has caused itchiness in some people, which the researchers associated with the acidity of the product. On the other hand, people with very sensitive skin are recommended to visit their dermatologist before incorporating a vitamin C serum into their routine. Some products may contain essential oils, which can cause redness and chemical burns if used incorrectly.

How to Choose the Best Vitamin C Serum

As previously mentioned, not all vitamin C serums are made equal. Make sure to read the label and take mental notes of the following tips before purchasing a vitamin C serum:

1. Avoid Products in Clear Bottles

One indicator of a good vitamin C serum is it’s contained inside a dark, tinted container. This ingredient is sensitive to sun and heat, and products placed inside clear bottles are more prone to oxidation. Once it oxidizes, it loses its healing abilities, rendering them useless. In order to get the bang for your buck, opt for a product protected in a tinted container.

2. Know Your Label

Not all vitamin C serums have a single label. Look for a product labeled “ascorbic acid” or “L-ascorbic acid.”

3. Know Your Skin Type

Some skin types can’t tolerate vitamin C serums with high concentrations, while others may not see visible results from a product with low concentrations. As with any skin care item, knowing your skin type is important before purchasing.

For Aging Skin

A high-potency vitamin C serum of around 15%-20% may be best for you. The La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C Face Serum comes with hyaluronic acid and salicylic acid that can help boost your skin’s radiance.

$44.99 on Amazon

For Oily or Acne-Prone Skin

If you’re wondering if you can use vitamin C serum when dealing with acne, the answer is yes. Acne is a common skin problem that affects 50 million Americans. While commonly used for anti-aging purposes, vitamin C can help provide added protection against environmental aggressors that may trigger more acne growth.

Additionally, some products can help fade acne scars. Murad Vita-C Glycolic Serum provides all these benefits in just a few pumps. Its potent formula contains glycolic acid, which helps smooth skin texture and regain a clearer complexion.

$79.20 on Amazon

For Sensitive Skin

It’s best to get your dermatologist’s advice before trying out products. However, if you want to search for options and simply ask for approval, starting with a gentle formulation is recommended. CeraVe Vitamin C Serum with Hyaluronic Acid contains 10% pure vitamin C and three essential ceramides that help brighten your skin tone without oxidation.

$23.88 on Amazon

For Dry Skin

If skin dullness and dryness are your main concerns, certain products can help address both. Look for vitamin C serums with hyaluronic acid, a hydrating ingredient. Fièra Vitamin C Serum contains hyaluronic acid, which helps promote plumper skin, and Caribbean orange oil, which helps even skin tone.

$34.209 on Amazon

The Right Way to Incorporate Vitamin C Serum Into Your Routine

To reap the benefits of vitamin C serum, you must know how to use it properly. Here’s how to use it.

• Do a patch test: Select a small area on your face that’s easy to conceal, such as your jaw. Apply a small amount of product and observe for 24 hours for any side effects, such as rash or redness. If there’s none, proceed to the next steps.
• Use in the morning: Use it before applying your sunscreen for maximum sun protection.
• Apply with caution: Avoid using any new product when introducing a new vitamin C serum. Additionally, using it alongside niacinamide can make the serum less effective.

Get a Brighter, More Radiant Complexion

Unlock a clearer, more glowing complexion with vitamin C serum. Hopefully, the list of benefits can inspire you to purchase a product so you can unlock your fullest potential.