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Best Vitamin C Serums for Brighter Skin
Updated March 2022
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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. Read more  
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.Read more 
Bottom Line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
Obagi Professional-C Serum 20%
Obagi
Professional-C Serum 20%
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Fan Favorite
Bottom Line

A top-seller made with a high concentration of vitamin C for revitalized skin. Many loyal customers call it a must-have part of their daily routines.

Pros

Concentrated formula contains 20% vitamin C that is perfect for tackling tough hyperpigmentation. Improves skin's texture and softens fine lines and wrinkles. Scent isn't overpowering, and a little goes a long way.

Cons

Some reports of receiving already-oxidized product. Very pricey.

Best Bang for the Buck
Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum
Mad Hippie
Vitamin C Serum
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Affordable and Effective
Bottom Line

Choose this affordable vitamin C serum if you are on a budget and want a product packed with skin-loving ingredients. Not harsh or irritating.

Pros

Contains vitamins C and E plus ferulic acid and hyaluronic acid to brighten skin and plump fine lines. Made with plant-based ingredients. Doesn't have a harsh scent. Only a few drops needed for noticeable results.

Cons

Watery. Some users didn't notice much of a difference even after using it consistently.

CeraVe Skin Renewing Vitamin C Serum
CeraVe
Skin Renewing Vitamin C Serum
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Trusted Brand
Bottom Line

A serum that uses 100% Vitamin C and hyaluronic acid for more radiant and even skin tone.

Pros

Non-comedogenic product that is fragrance- and paraben-free. The formula is designed to be hydrating without being too greasy. Contains ingredients that improve the texture of skin, give a healthy-looking glow, and protect the skin’s barrier.

Cons

Product comes out of the tube too quickly and it tends to leak.

SkinMedica Vitamin C+E Complex
SkinMedica
Vitamin C+E Complex
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Professional Formula
Bottom Line

This professional-grade serum utilizes the skin-brightening capabilities of vitamins C and E to lighten post-acne hyperpigmentation and help minimize the effects of sun damage.

Pros

Formulated by skincare professionals to nourish and improve skin. In addition to vitamin C, this serum also contains vitamin E to brighten skin and even out tone and texture. Lightweight and absorbs quickly.

Cons

A mild burning sensation is common. Can be drying for users with dry skin. Pricey.

Bliss Bright Idea Vitamin C & Tri-Peptide Collagen-Protecting & Brightening Moisturizer
Bliss
Bright Idea Vitamin C & Tri-Peptide Collagen-Protecting & Brightening Moisturizer
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Comprehensive
Bottom Line

Adds brightness and moisture, and is formulated without potentially harmful ingredients.

Pros

A tri-peptide and Vitamin C formula that works to improve the elasticity of skin, care for skin’s collagen, and protect against free radicals. Also uses glycerin to keep the skin hydrated. Does not have any SLS’, parabens, or phthalates. Is cruelty-free and vegan.

Cons

May not be the best choice for sensitive skin. Results tend to take a little while to show.

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.

Click here for testing insights
54
Models
Considered
65
Consumers
Consulted
28
Hours
Researched
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If dark spots, sun damage, and aging skin are a concern, a vitamin C serum that brightens the skin may be a product you need to add to your skincare routine. These serums are made to tackle signs of aging, hyperpigmentation, and the effects of the sun, resulting in skin that feels soft and appears to glow. What's more, some brightening vitamin C serums contain additional ingredients to plump up skin and minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Keep in mind that highly concentrated vitamin C serums may tingle or burn until your skin adjusts. The key to noticeable results is to use your vitamin C serum consistently.

Our Top Picks
Obagi
Best of the Best
Obagi
Professional-C Serum 20%
Bottom Line
A top-seller made with a high concentration of vitamin C for revitalized skin. Many loyal customers call it a must-have part of their daily routines.
Shop Now
Mad Hippie
Best Bang for the Buck
Mad Hippie
Vitamin C Serum
Bottom Line
Choose this affordable vitamin C serum if you are on a budget and want a product packed with skin-loving ingredients. Not harsh or irritating.
Shop Now
CeraVe
Top Pick
CeraVe
Skin Renewing Vitamin C Serum
Bottom Line
A serum that uses 100% Vitamin C and hyaluronic acid for more radiant and even skin tone.
Shop Now
SkinMedica
Top Pick
SkinMedica
Vitamin C+E Complex
Bottom Line
This professional-grade serum utilizes the skin-brightening capabilities of vitamins C and E to lighten post-acne hyperpigmentation and help minimize the effects of sun damage.
Shop Now
Bliss
Top Pick
Bliss
Bright Idea Vitamin C & Tri-Peptide Collagen-Protecting & Brightening Moisturizer
Bottom Line
Adds brightness and moisture, and is formulated without potentially harmful ingredients.
Shop Now
SkinCeuticals
Top Pick
SkinCeuticals
C E Ferulic
Bottom Line
Top-of-the-line vitamin C serum formulated with vitamin E and ferulic acid to optimize its brightening effects and improve signs of aging and sun damage.
Shop Now