11 Best Vitamin C Serums 2025, Recommended by Dermatologists

The best vitamin C serums can help with dark spots, hyperpigmentation, acne scars, and getting your glow on (yes, even in the winter). This antioxidant fights against free-radical damage (meaning it’s great for antiaging) and is found in so many products—moisturizers, eye creams, face masks, you name it. It’s widely touted by dermatologists as one of the key ingredients for brightening, plumping, and protecting skin all at once.

To help you find the right formula for your skin type, our editors have tested more than 15 of the most widely recommended dermatologist picks for more than eight months. During this time we evaluated everything from consistency and scent (vitamin C is known to smell, well, kinda funky!), plus short- and long-term efficacy.

Our winning pick is the SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic, a formula that I’ve personally used for at least three years now. Though I’ve tried dozens of vitamin C serums, I always come back to this one—even if it is on the pricier side—for its brightening effects. My dull, dry skin looks smoother and more awake with consistent use. But for those who want something different—maybe a more affordable pick or something more hydrating—we reviewed other top-rated options that address a variety of skin concerns.

The best vitamin C serums, at a glance

Your vitamin C questions, answered

Vitamin C is an antioxidant and our bodies need it to function properly. You might associate it with citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, kiwis, and grapefruit, but its health perks extend to your skin too.

In terms of skin care, when ultraviolet light penetrates your skin, it causes lasting damage by producing free radicals. Vitamin C can prevent that damage by “quenching” the free radicals as they form, says says Kenneth Howe, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. The brightening serum also inhibits a key enzyme in melanin production, so it can act as a dark spot corrector too. The end result? A more radiant complexion and smoother texture over time. (Think glass-like skin.)

What does vitamin C serum do?

“Vitamin C helps defend against free radical damage caused by environmental stressors like UV exposure and pollution,” says Corey L. Hartman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, Alabama. “Vitamin C also aids in reducing hyperpigmentation and dark spots caused by acne scarring or sun exposure. Research has also shown that vitamin C helps stimulate collagen production, which makes skin appear firmer and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.”

What to look for in a vitamin C serum

The key ingredient in these serums is L-ascorbic acid, a pure form of vitamin C, says Joshua Zeichner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. This type of serum penetrates more deeply than other forms, making it more likely to reach the layers of skin where you actually need it to work. Another popular one? Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, which tends to be more stable than its counterparts (read “it lasts longer”).

Pay attention to the concentration too. “Look for serums that contain 10% to 20% vitamin C,” says Morgan Rabach, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. “Less than 10% is not as effective, and over 20% can cause skin irritation.” A supporting cast of active ingredients, like vitamin E and ferulic acid, can also boost its efficacy. Some vitamin C serums may even boast nice-to-haves including hyaluronic acid, squalane, and other hydrators.

In addition, peep the packaging that houses any vitamin C products you’re considering. Vitamin C is notoriously unstable, so it can oxidize with light and heat. You want darkly tinted glass bottles with airless delivery, since air can also cause pure vitamin C to degrade, says Dr. Rabach.

When to use vitamin C serum

“I recommend using vitamin C serum in the morning, once daily, followed by face sunscreen,” says Dr. Hartman. Because vitamin C is a powerful ingredient, it’s best to separate usage from other strong ingredients, like retinol. “Try your retinol during your evening skin-care routine and a vitamin C product in your a.m. skin-care routine,” says Dr. Hartman. “Doing so will ensure you get the maximum benefit without risking irritation.”

How often should you use vitamin C serum?

We know you want to see results right away, but for the most dramatic outcome, you really need to use vitamin C serum daily, targeting one application each morning, for a number of weeks. Remember to always follow the application with sunscreen. And if you have an allergy or experience a reaction such as burning or stinging, you should avoid putting the product on your face, says Nava Greenfield, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology in New York City.

How to apply vitamin C serum

Apply vitamin C serum after cleansing your skin once daily in the morning. Consult package directions for specifics, but in general, put a few drops of serum into your palm and pat it onto your face. Allow it to sit for a few minutes for maximum absorption. As mentioned, always follow with a broad-spectrum face sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher since vitamin C becomes unstable when exposed to light.

Does vitamin C serum expire?

Vitamin C serums do expire, typically within three to six months after opening (but always check the product label for specific guidelines), says Kristina Collins, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Austin Skin in Austin. “Vitamin C [ascorbic acid] is highly sensitive to light, air, and heat, which can lead to oxidation,” she explains. “Once oxidized, the serum turns a brownish or yellowish color and becomes less effective at delivering its skin-brightening and collagen-boosting benefits. Oxidized vitamin C may even cause skin irritation for some individuals.”

To maximize the shelf life of your vitamin C serum, choose a product with opaque or airless packaging and store it in a cool, dark place. Formulations that stabilize vitamin C (like our top overall pick, which is combined with ferulic acid) also tend to last longer than pure vitamin C.

Can you use niacinamide with vitamin C products?

Yes, you can use the niacinamide serums with vitamin C products. Overall, vitamin C pairs well with other popular skin-care ingredients, says Dr. Hartman. “Vitamin C pairs well with niacinamide, caffeine, vitamin E, ferulic acid, and hyaluronic acid. I recommend looking for vitamin C products with complementary active ingredients to get the most bang for your buck.”

On the other hand, vitamin C does not pair well with retinol or alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid and lactic acid. “Most people use a vitamin C serum in their morning routine, so leave the retinol creams and AHAs for your evening skin-care routine,” says Dr. Hartman.

Does vitamin C help with acne?

Vitamin C doesn’t help with acne, says Dr. Hartman, but “it can minimize redness and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from acne.”

Morgan Rabach, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City
Kenneth Howe, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City
Joshua Zeichner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City
Charlotte Birnbaum, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Spring Street Dermatology in New York City
Corey L. Hartman, MD, a board-certified dermatologists and founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, Alabama
Nava Greenfield, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology in New York City
Kristina Collins, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Austin Skin in Austin

We combed through the most popular vitamin C products on the market, plus got top recommendations from dermatologists. Then we had more than a half-dozen of our editors and contributors put upwards of 15 products to the test over the course of the past year (though many of these individuals have spent years experimenting with various vitamin C serums). During this time we evaluated everything from consistency to scent, plus monitored both short- and long-term efficacy. We also tapped an additional group of dermatologists for even more on vitamin C serums to help us understand how to get the most out of the best products out there.

Since the last major update to this story in May 2024, we have revised our list to remove a few products we felt didn’t quite live up to the hype in the long run, including the formula by Dr. Dennis Gross, which we found has a funky smell to begin with and tends to oxidize quickly. In place of these products we added others we’ve had better experiences with, like the CeraVe Vitamin C Serum with Hyaluronic Acid, a very affordable serum that Glamour commerce writer Alanna Martine Kilkeary swears by.

Best Vitamin C Serum Overall: SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic

Original video by Glamour reviewer Brigitt Earley

What we love: Offers visible results a lot faster than other vitamin C serums because of its three hero ingredients; can be used every morning; pleasant consistency that absorbs quickly
What could improve: Pricey; has that traditional vitamin C smell that some find unpleasant

Key ingredients: 15% pure vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), 1% vitamin E, 0.5% ferulic acid / Consistency: Smooth / Size: 1 ounce / Skin type: Normal, dry, sensitive, mature / How to apply: Apply four to six drops to clean skin every morning

What dermatologists say: This top-selling vitamin C serum is considered one of the best by derms. Dr. Rabach likes that it packs the perfect triple threat against damage: L-ascorbic acid (15%), vitamin E, and ferulic acid. Dr. Howe adds that this particular skin-care product “delivers the greatest amount of antioxidant power of any product available” thanks to its careful combination of actives—which is reflected in the price, but you get what you pay for (and then some).

What our reviewers say: I’m rarely one to splurge like this on a beauty product, but I truly think this one is worth its weight in gold. I’ve been using the product on and off for a number of years (at least three!), and can really see a difference, particularly in the tone of my skin, when I’m consistent. My skin skews dry, and this product helps take that dull look away, making my skin look overall brighter and more hydrated.

Like most vitamin C serums, it does have a bit of a stink and that deep amber color that comes along with it, but it doesn’t bother me all that much and certainly doesn’t linger. As far as consistency and absorption, the formula feels nice and silky on skin and readily sinks in, so you can move on with your morning skin-care routine. Also, a little bit goes a long way, helping to justify the overall value here.

Best Value Vitamin C Serum: The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%

The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%

What we love: Very affordable; provides faster results due to its high potency; non-irritating
What could improve: Somewhat gritty texture

Key ingredients: Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), hyaluronic acid / Consistency: Smooth / Size: 1 ounce / Skin type: Normal, combination, dry, oily / How to apply: Apply a pea-size amount to clean skin every night

What dermatologists say: When it comes to overall value, you really can’t beat The Ordinary’s line of skin-care products. (Check out our Ordinary review for more affordable standouts from the brand.) “This is an affordable, potent option—23% vitamin C!—but the high concentration of ascorbic acid can cause irritation, especially for sensitive skin,” says Dr. Collins, who says it’s best suited for those with resilient, non-sensitive skin who want a budget-friendly option to target uneven texture and dull skin tone, plus improve signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles.

What our reviewers say: Our tester, Glamour contributor Sarah Morse, says she—rather unsuccessfully—searched for a strong formula for months before landing on this one. “You can’t beat the price, of course, but I’m happy to report this formula works as well as the brand promises.” She didn’t experience any redness or burning, either. The secret, says Morse? “Mix it with your favorite hydrating serum or face moisturizer to reduce its somewhat gritty texture.”

Best Vitamin C Serum on Amazon: TruSkin Vitamin C Serum

What we love: Hydrates the skin with a powerful blend of hyaluronic acid and vitamin E; affordable
What could improve: Our tester says results appear slowly

Key ingredients: Vitamin C (sodium ascorbyl phosphate), vitamin E, hyaluronic acid / Consistency: Smooth / Size: 1 ounce / Skin type: All skin types / How to apply: Apply three to five drops to clean skin morning or night

What dermatologists say: An unexpected Amazon favorite, this TruSkin formulation is one of Dr. Rabach’s recommended budget vitamin C options. “It’s an amazing facial serum packed with hydrating hyaluronic acid and vitamin E,” she says. That means you’ll reap moisturizing benefits in addition to the brightening ones. Heads up: It also has a high concentration of vitamin C, so consider building up slowly to daily use if you’re new to the ingredient—a few drops go a long way. On the plus side, this improves efficacy and makes the serum last longer at the same time.

What our reviewers say: Glamour senior commerce editor Jenifer Calle approached testing with trepidation but was pleasantly surprised by how well this product worked over the course of a month. “Although I know the antioxidant has a ton of skin-care benefits (namely, brightening skin and minimizing dark spots), I’ve never noticed any major improvements when using it in the past. I thought the same would be the case for this TruSkin product, especially since after two weeks I still hadn’t noticed any major changes. But after more than a month of consecutive testing, I can see it’s actually been working—albeit slowly.” Glamour’s Calle used the recommended five drops every morning on a clean dry face before proceeding with the rest of her beauty routine (toner, moisturizer, and sunscreen). “I noticed my overall complexion did look brighter and my skin felt smoother. It’s not like my freckles or dark spots completely disappeared, but there’s no denying my skin looks more radiant, especially in the mornings.”

A nice bonus? Calle says this product doesn’t have the same off-putting smell as others she’s tried in the past. It was also quick to absorb and entirely non-irritating. “I don’t have extremely sensitive skin, but harsh products tend to cause redness. I’m happy to report that I didn’t experience any itching, burning, or redness.”

Best Vitamin C Serum for Sensitive Skin: Paula’s Choice C15 Super Booster

Paula’s Choice C15 Super Booster

What we love: Doesn’t cause excessive dryness; can be used up to twice daily; lends an instant glow
What could improve: Slightly medicinal scent; more marked results take time

Key ingredients: 15% pure vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), vitamin E, ferulic acid / Consistency: Runny / Size: .67 ounces / Skin type: All skin types / How to apply: Apply two to three drops to clean skin every morning and night

What dermatologists say: New to vitamin C skin-care products? Charlotte Birnbaum, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Spring Street Dermatology in New York City, recommends this for younger patients who are looking to introduce the ingredient into their skin-care routines. It has 15% vitamin C in the formula, which is less than the usual 20% we see in other options. It’s a real sweet spot for those with sensitive skin, since it works to even skin tone but isn’t as likely to irritate. You can also mix the serum with your favorite moisturizer for glowing skin for even more skin-brightening benefits and protection against irritation.

What our reviewers say: Glamour commerce producer Leilani McQuay is in her 30s and likes to keep her skin-care routine minimal because of her dry and acne-prone skin. “The bottle features a dropper, so it’s easy to dispense the right amount,” she says. “And even though the consistency was a bit watery, it felt very hydrating and absorbed nicely into my skin.” Like many other vitamin C serums, Glamour’s McQuay cited a slight medicinal scent but told us it disappeared as soon as she applied her daily SPF. “The serum felt lightweight upon application, lends a subtle glow, and—most importantly—didn’t cause any irritation or burning. I think I need more time to see visible results regarding wrinkles and hyperpigmentation, but overall, it hasn’t caused any breakouts and leaves my skin feeling hydrated and glowy every time I apply it.”

Best for Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Sunday Riley C.E.O. Glow Vitamin C & Turmeric Face Oil

Sunday Riley C.E.O. Glow Vitamin C & Turmeric Face Oil

Original video by Glamour reviewer Brigitt Earley

What we love: Lightweight; pleasing citrus scent; bottle is travel-friendly
What could improve: Some users say it’s a bit too heavy for oily skin

Key ingredients: Vitamin C (THD ascorbate), golden turmeric, ginger root extract / Consistency: Oily / Size: 1.18 ounces / Skin type: Normal, dry, combination / How to apply: Apply three to four drops into face and neck, morning and/or evening

What dermatologists say: “This product is excellent for dry or mature skin due to its oil base, which nourishes while delivering antioxidant benefits,” says Dr. Collins. The inclusion of turmeric provides anti-inflammatory properties, making it suitable for redness-prone skin too, she says. Just note: Oily or acne-prone skin types might find the oil-heavy formulation too rich.

What our reviewers say: It may be an oil, but users say it’s actually relatively lightweight for an oil, plus has a subtle citrus scent that’s much more refreshing than your average vitamin C serum. “My skin appeared slightly brighter after three weeks of consistent use,” says Madison Flager, senior commerce editor at Condé Nast Traveler. “I appreciate the size and shape of the bottle too,” she adds. “I happened to be traveling a few times during this period, and it didn’t take up much room in my toiletry bag, plus it’s TSA-friendly in size.” Most importantly, Flager told us it’s a great addition to her morning routine. “As the first thing I put on my skin after washing it, it feels like a nice lightweight base, blending in well and giving off a slight glow.”

Sunday Riley C.E.O. Glow Vitamin C Turmeric Face Oil

Best Vitamin C Serum for Dark Spots: La Roche-Posay 10% Pure Vitamin C Serum

La Roche-Posay 10% Pure Vitamin C Serum

What we love: Great for those with acne-prone skin; no sticky residue
What could improve: Lower concentration of vitamin C than some other products

Key ingredients: Pure vitamin C, salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid / Consistency: Smooth / Size: 3.44 ounces / Skin type: All skin types / How to apply: Apply three to four drops across the face and neck each morning

What dermatologists say: This more affordable serum is a great choice for sensitive or combination skin, says Dr. Collins. “It offers a balance between exfoliation (salicylic acid) and soothing properties (neurosensine), which can help improve skin texture and tone without irritation.” And while more seasoned users may yearn for a heftier punch of the active, the lower concentration of vitamin C is ideal for newbies.

What our reviewers say: “Whenever I need to inject some life into my skin, I reach for this serum,” says Ariana Yaptangco, Glamour senior beauty editor. “It gives me an instant glow thanks to the concentrated 10% vitamin C, while salicylic acid helps clear and minimize my pores.”

Best Drugstore Vitamin C Serum: L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives Vitamin C Face Serum

L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives Vitamin C Face Serum

Original video by Glamour reviewer Brigitt Earley

What we love: Budget-friendly; hydrating; a little goes a long way
What could improve: Formula may not be as potent as some others

Key ingredients: 10% pure vitamin C, hyaluronic acid / Consistency: Slightly oily / Size: 1 ounce / Skin type: All / How to apply: Apply 2 to 3 drops to clean skin every morning or night

What dermatologists say: Derm-approved vitamin C formulations can also be found on the shelves of your nearest drugstore. Joshua Zeichner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, and Dr. Rabach both nominate this soothing formulation from L’Oréal Paris. According to Dr. Rabach, the inclusion of hydrating hyaluronic acid (an ingredient that holds 1,000 times its weight in water) makes it a gentle—yet effective—option. Dr. Zeichner also emphasizes the low concentration of vitamin C; at 10%, it’s still effective but mild enough to be an ideal choice for those with sensitive skin.

What our reviewers say: Our tester was impressed by the prowess of this formula, especially considering the price point. “Vitamin C serums are too clogging for my skin type, and make me break out,” says Susie Plotkin, associate director of email audience strategy at Condé Nast. “This one went on really smoothly and wasn’t sticky at all. And a little goes a long way, which makes it even better for the price point.”

The jury is still out on just how powerful it is in terms of brightening properties, though. Our tester called it “a nice serum,” pointing to its hydrating powers, but said in the month-long test they didn’t notice marked changes in their overall complexion.

LOral Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives Vitamin C Face Serum

Best Drugstore Vitamin C Serum: Cerave Skin Renewing Vitamin C Serum

Cerave Skin Renewing Vitamin C Serum

Original video by Glamour commerce writer Alanna Martine Kilkeary

What we love: Hydrating enough for dry skin; fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive skin
What could improve: Only 10% vitamin C

Key ingredients: 10% ascorbic acid, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid / Consistency: Smooth / Size: 1 ounce / Skin type: All skin types / How to apply: Apply evenly to face and neck daily

What dermatologists say: In true Cerave fashion, this serum combines the brightening benefits of vitamin C with ceramides to strengthen the skin barrier, says Dr. Collins. This makes the drugstore pick ideal for dry or sensitive skin, she says, noting the gentle formula is also fragrance-free, a plus for those with reactive skin.

What our reviewers say: “I’ve been using this vitamin C now just about every day for a month, and I’m supremely impressed with how clarified and even-toned my skin has been looking,” says Kilkeary. “I deal with a lot of discoloration and dark spots in areas I usually get pimples (around my nose, on my chin, on my cheeks), and ever since I started using this every morning, I’ve noticed that these blemishes have been slowly fading away.” It’s also less messy than a liquid serum thanks to its gel-cream consistency that absorbs in a snap.

Best Vitamin C Serum for Dark Spots: Olehenriksen Banana Bright 15% Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum

Olehenriksen Banana Bright 15% Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum

Original video by Glamour commerce writer Alanna Martine Kilkeary

What we love: Pleasing citrus scent; provides an instant glow; absorbs quickly
What could improve: May not be suitable for sensitive skin

Key ingredients: 15% ethyl ascorbic acid, PHAs, and hyaluronic acid / Consistency: Smooth / Size: 1 ounce / Skin type: Normal, dry, combination, oily / How to apply: Apply evenly to face and neck daily

What dermatologists say: If you’re experiencing uneven skin tone or dark spots, this is an effective treatment, says Dr. Collins. “The inclusion of PHAs offers gentle exfoliation, which can improve absorption and results,” she says, noting the brightening banana pigments make it a good option for those seeking instant luminosity. On the downside, “the added fragrance may not suit sensitive skin types,” says Dr. Collins.

What our reviewers say: “This vitamin C serum is one of my favorites that I always turn back to,” says Glamour’s Kilkeary. “It has a silky texture that sinks right into the skin (so there’s no need for a ton of rubbing or patting), and it always makes me look radiant and fresh.” She also likes that it doesn’t have a funky smell and has a thicker consistency she finds easier to work with. “I’ve used this serum on and off for about two or three years now, and I definitely think it’s played a part in how much clearer and even-toned my skin looks to this day.”

Olehenriksen Banana Bright 15 Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum

Best Vitamin C Serum for Oily Skin: Drunk Elephant C-Firma Fresh Vitamin-C Day Serum