NEW YORK, NEW YORK – FEBRUARY 11: A model poses backstage at MERIT, The Official Makeup Sponsor For The Proenza Schouler Show on February 11, 2022 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images for MERIT)

Vitamin C is arguably one of the most talked about ingredients in the skincare game — but that’s also because it’s one of the most effective. It a nutshell, vitamin C is an antioxidant that neutralises free radicals, or an unstable atom that can damage cells (including those in the skin). Sun exposure, pollution, smoking and general urban lifestyles can. all contribute, eventuating in skin that’s dull, lacklustre and pigmented. But the good news in that an effective topical vitamin C can prevent it from happening — it’s just all about knowing where to look.

So with national vitamin C day approaching on April 4, we thought we’d round up some of our favourite formulas for all skin types whether that’s dull, dry or oily (the single common denominator being that they deliver glow in spades). Keep scrolling to shop.

Sunday Riley C.E.O 15% Vitamin C Brightening Serum, $183. SHOP NOW

BEST FOR: DULL SKIN

This serum combines 15% THD ascorbate (a stable, oil-soluble form of vitamin C) with exfoliating glycolic acid and water-binding humectant acid for a powerful skin-brightening effect. While nourishing thanks to its milky texture and the inclusion of ingredients like jojoba, Sunday Riley’s C.E.O Glow is great for anyone with a thick, dull, lacklustre complexion.

Dermalogica biolumin-C serum, $216. SHOP NOW

BEST FOR: LINES AND WRINKLES

Packed with ingredients designed to brighten, firm and protect (think peptides, vitamin C, alpha-hydroxy acids and plant oils), this serum from Dermalogica works to improve collagen and elastin production for skin that’s smooth, bouncy and bright. With time, it should soften the look of skin laxity and fine lines.

Perricone MD Vitamin C Ester Serum, $103. SHOP NOW

BEST FOR SUN DAMAGE: 

Perricone MD is famous for its vitamin C serum, thank s to its brightening and strengthening properties. The secret lies in the antioxidant-rich formulation, combining vitamin c esters with ferulic acid, hyaluronic acid and vitamin e to firm, smooth and illuminate. It’s gentle, but still works effectively to correct discolouration and sun damage.

Skinceuticals CE Ferulic serum, $233. shop now

BEST FOR DRY SKIN:

Arguably one of the most iconic vitamin C serums out there, CE Ferulic is a lightweight but nourishing serum that decreases lines and wrinkles without dryness or irritation. The antioxidant trio of vitamin c, e and ferulic acid protect against environmental damage, leaving the complexion bright, even and youthful. While it does stink, the results are 100% worth it.

Glow Recipe Guava Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum™, $78. SHOP NOW

Best for pigmentation & acne marks: 

This silky serum not only looks phenomenal the instant it slides on (hi, glassy finish), but it also contains a cocktail of brightening ingredients to brighten up the look of pigmentation, acne scars and dark spots. There’s five forms of stabilised vitamin C plus tranexamic acid and guava to subtly lift excess melanin for improved skin clarity over time.

Rationale #2 The Hydrogel, $184. SHOP NOW

Best for sensitive skin: 

This lightweight gel-cream is a departure from your run of the mill serum-like consistency, but it still combines stable vitamin C with enzymes, Australian botanicals and what’s called “microshperes” to not only comfort and brighten the skin, but also protect it from UV and pollution. It’s also supremely hydrating, making it a great choice for normal to dry, sensitive or reactive skin types.

La Roche-Posay Redermic Pure C10 Vitamin C Serum, $72. SHOP NOW

best for combination and oily skin:

Hydrating but non-sticky, this wallet-friendly serum from La Roche-Posay combines 10% vitamin C with salicylic acid to subtly brighten, refine and decongest the skin. Because a beta-hydroxy acid is present, it’s a stellar choice for those who are oily or acne-prone.

Alpha H Vitamin C Serum, $80. SHOP NOW

Best for normal skin: 

From Alpha H comes this excellent all-rounder serum. Combining vitamin C  with botanical extracts (including licorice and grape seed oil) to deliver superior antioxidant support, this formula uses a 10% concentration of ethyl ascorbic acid to give dull, pigmented skin a boost.