Best Vitamin C Serums for Brighter Skin

Updated October 2020

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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

The Ordinary

Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%

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High Concentration

Bottom Line

A reliable serum that contains a very high concentration of vitamin C for a surprisingly low price. But it may be too strong for users unaccustomed to vitamin C.

Pros

Contains 23% vitamin C. Reduces the appearance of stubborn dark spots. Affordable, plus you don't need a lot to see results over time. Using a small amount until your skin adjusts will help minimize the burning sensation.

Cons

Texture is gritty. Not ideal for first-time users of vitamin C. A tricky serum to use.

Best Bang for the Buck

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 that's packed with skin-loving ingredients. Works well without being 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.

Obagi

Professional-C Serum 20%

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Fan Favorite

Bottom Line

A top-seller that is made with a high concentration of vitamin C for revitalized skin. Has many loyal customers that call it a must-have part of their daily skincare 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.

This top-of-the-line vitamin C serum is formulated with vitamin E and ferulic acid to optimize its brightening effects and improve signs of aging and sun damage.

Pros

Made with a combination of vitamins C and E and ferulic acid, this antioxidant serum results in brighter, firmer skin. Lightens dark spots caused by acne and melasma. A holy grail skincare product for many.

Cons

Texture is somewhat sticky. One of the priciest vitamin C serums on the market.

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. This serum is lightweight and absorbs quickly.

Cons

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

How we decided

We purchase every product we review with our own funds — we never accept anything from product manufacturers.

54 Models Considered

28 Hours Researched

3 Experts Interviewed

65 Consumers Consulted

Zero products received from manufacturers.

We purchase every product we review with our own funds — we never accept anything from product manufacturers.

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.

Other Products We Considered

The BestReviews editorial team researches hundreds of products based on consumer reviews, brand quality, and value. We then choose a shorter list for in-depth research and testing before finalizing our top picks. These are the products we considered that ultimately didn't make our top 5.

CeraVe

Vitamin C Serum with Hyaluronic Acid

Noche Y Dia

Vitamin C Serum

Pure Biology

Premium Vitamin C Serum with Hyaluronic Acid

Eva Naturals

Vitamin C Serum + Retinol

InstaNatural

Vitamin C Serum with Hyaluronic Acid

L’Oreal Paris

Vitamin C Serum for Radiant & Brighter Skin