When it comes to your skin, there are some things that we all universally desire: We want it clear, bright and healthy. A little smoother wouldn't hurt either, right? This is why Vitamin C has become such a powerhouse ingredient for quality skin care products. The go-to nutrient is an extremely potent antioxidant that not only soothes skin to reduce inflammation, but also promotes healthy collagen production. Which means redness, ruddiness and fine lines are all minimized. The end result? Toned, firm skin and a smoother, more even complexion.
Multiple studies have shown that Vitamin C is extremely effective at restoring skin's health and even treating or preventing ultraviolet-induced photo-damage. Unfortunately, very little of the vitamin ever actually makes it to your skin, says board-certified dermatologist Laurel Naversen Geraghty. This is why you want to look for topical products with a high concentration of Vitamin C. Because while the immune-booster will serve your body well when ingested via foods or supplements, it won't benefit your skin the same as these dedicated products. Which leads us to the best ones that our team has tested. All of these served us well, but take a look to see which might be best for your specific skin concerns.
Triple C+E Serum
Three forms of Vitamin C and Vitamin E give you maximum antioxidant effect by improving skin tone while reducing blackheads and clogged pores. What we really liked about this was the creamy texture—it's almost like a lightweight moisturizer.
$75 by West Skincare
Morning Glow
Vitamin C Serum
This easy citrus-scented serum smoothes on before your daily moisturizer to deliver a potent dose of antioxidants. And you can set it to a subscription delivery so you never run out.
$33 by Hims
Brightening
Solution Mask
If you want to see immediate results, let this sheet mask infuse your skin with naturally derived Vitamin C that's supported by other brightening and hydrating ingredients such as niacinamide and glutathione.
$9 by Dr. Jart+
Biolumin-C Eye Serum
This Vitamin-C-spiked eye cream brightens dullness and darkness around the eyes, while smoothing the appearance of fine lines and crow's feet. Since it hydrates and helps skin regenerate, it's best to apply both in the morning and before bed.
$70 by Dermalogica
Powerful-Strength Vitamin C Concentrate
This best-seller from Kiehl's combines the skin-improving Vitamin C with ultra-moisturizing hyaluronic acid for a concentrate that's clinically proven to reduce lines and smooth skin's texture. It also does a bang-up job of reducing the appearance of pores.
$68 by Kiehl's
Vitamin C
Suspension 30%
You'll notice visible results in about a week, thanks to this potent water-free suspension's maxed-out concentration of Vitamins C (30%). Since it's really packing, you might feel a slight tingle upon application, so be careful when you first try this.
$6.80 by The Ordinary