We predict that you will fall into one of two categories when it comes to vitamin C in skincare. Firstly, the fan who has already harnessed its powers in their beauty regime. Secondly, where you’ve heard people raving about its transformative abilities, and you’re just waiting to try it for yourself.
The main reason so many people love the active ingredient is that it is safe for most skin types and can be used with other ingredients like retinol, alpha hydroxy acids, and, most importantly, SPF. In addition, its list of benefits includes many that have been clinically proven. These include brightening, hydrating, anti-ageing, its ability to reduce redness and even out skin tone, alongside helping to fade out hyperpigmentation. In this region especially, it also comes into play with helping protect skin from sun damage and can help soothe sunburn with its capability to accelerate cell turnover.
As with any skincare product, it’s always important to patch test, leaving it for 24 hours to check for side effects. Once you have the all-clear, you can slowly start implementing it into your skincare regime. A vitamin C serum can be used day and night after you cleanse and tone. It’s most powerful as a serum, but you can also find it in moisturisers, foundations and SPFs. One point to note is that it can oxidise, meaning it’s still safe to use, but its benefits aren’t as potent. A rule of thumb is to follow any sell-by dates and use the formula within six months of opening it.
Discover the perfect vitamin C serum for you with a roundup of some of beauty’s best formulas.
The Spray on Serum
On the go or strapped for time? This spray-on serum instantly revives the skin. The ultra-fine mist blends encapsulated vitamin C with hydration boosting ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerine.
The Cult Favourite
Loved for its ability to brighten skin, Sunday Riley’s bestselling formula features 15% vitamin C alongside glycolic acid, which helps improve skin texture and cell turnover.
The All Rounder
Consciously crafted, this formula by HoliFrog packs a punch of antioxidants, acids, adaptogens and plant-based actives alongside a 15% vitamin C combination.
The Corrective Serum
A potent blend of actives is combined with 10% vitamin C for this serum that focuses on addressing premature ageing, age spots, hyperpigmentation and skin tone imperfections.
The Topical C
Wanting to ensure your vitamin C is as potent as it can be? The Nue Co’s arrives in powder form that is to be added to your existing moisturiser, serum or face oil.
The SPF Mix
Love a multipurpose product? This hybrid formula by Supergoop! offers up hydration and antioxidant protection alongside protecting skin from harmful UV rays.
The DIY Serum
Want your vitamin C fresh? This super-potent formula arrives as a liquid serum base and a vial containing 15% l-ascorbic acid powder to mix yourself at home.