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Best Drugstore Vitamin C Serums

Updated November 2023
Bottom line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
InstaNatural Vitamin C Age Defying & Skin Clearing Serum
InstaNatural
Vitamin C Age Defying & Skin Clearing Serum
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Most Comprehensive
Bottom Line

A popular serum made with quality ingredients and delivers notable results for many users. Fans say it's comparable to premium brands, and are pleased with the affordable price point.

Pros

In addition to vitamin C, this serum is made with retinols and hyaluronic acid, which both help minimize signs of aging, and salicylic acid that targets blemishes and breakouts. Made in the U.S.A. without harsh or artificial ingredients; no animal testing.

Cons

A few formula changes don't appeal to some repeat customers. Can be irritating to very sensitive skin.

Best Bang for the Buck
Meera's Beauty Vitamin C Serum
Meera's Beauty
Vitamin C Serum
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Generous-size Bottle
Bottom Line

If you are looking for a drugstore vitamin C serum that won't stress your budget, this is the one to buy. You'll get twice as much as many competing brands for a low price.

Pros

Combines vitamin C with hyaluronic acid, plant-based oils, and vitamin E to nourish, moisturize, and protect skin. Product is made in the U.S.A. by a company that doesn't do animal testing. Affordable, plus you get 2 ounces for the price.

Cons

Consistency is on the thin side, and feels a bit sticky. Some users report irritation after use.

Dr. Brenner C Serum
Dr. Brenner
C Serum
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Potent Formula
Bottom Line

A good choice for consumers with damaged skin or those that want noticeable results faster than some other products can deliver. However, irritation is possible, especially for those with sensitive skin.

Pros

Contains 20% ascorbic acid, thought to be the most potent form of vitamin C, making it highly effective at producing noticeable results. Includes hyaluronic and ferulic acid that moisturize and plump up fine lines. Contains vitamin E. No parabens; made in the U.S.A. without animal testing.

Cons

The downside of ascorbic acid is that it can be irritating to the skin, and tends to oxidate faster than other forms of vitamin C. Feels sticky.

Tree of Life Vitamin C Serum
Tree of Life
Vitamin C Serum
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Limited Ingredients
Bottom Line

Despite some quirks, this vitamin C serum is worth considering if you prefer a product that doesn't contain a lot of extra ingredients that could irritate the skin.

Pros

Made in the U.S.A. with ingredients that are derived from organic sources. Not tested on animals. Contains skin-soothing witch hazel. Some repeat customers rave about more even skin tone and texture with regular use.

Cons

Some reports of breakouts, especially among users with oily skin. Watery consistency. Has a mild but strange scent.

TruSkin Serum C Professional Facial Serum
TruSkin
Serum C Professional Facial Serum
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Multi-purpose Product
Bottom Line

This serum is made with vitamin C and other skin-benefiting ingredients, and has earned more happy customers than complaints.

Pros

Formulated with a blend of plant-based oils, hyaluronic acid, and witch hazel to moisturize skin and protect against premature signs of aging. Contains nourishing vitamin E. Some customers report brighter skin after using it. Made in the U.S.A.; cruelty-free.

Cons

Issues including puffy skin, blemishes, and irritation with use have been noted. Some bottles contained serum that had a foggy appearance, suggesting oxidation had occurred.

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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews 
HOW WE TESTED

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

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Consumers
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You've probably heard of the benefits of getting vitamin C through food and supplements, but did you know this important antioxidant can also be applied topically? Vitamin C serums are formulated especially for the skin, and target free radicals caused by factors such as poor diet, sun exposure, and environmental exposure. Using one on a regular basis can improve skin texture, promote collagen rejuvenation, and give skin a brighter-looking appearance. Vitamin C serums have lightweight consistencies, typically come with droppers for easy application, and can be used with other skincare and makeup products. Some formulas contain additional skin-improving ingredients like hyaluronic acid and retinols. And if you are watching your budget, choose a drugstore brand that's both affordable and effective.

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