Top 10 Vitamin C Serums

WHY IT MADE THE LIST: This new-to-the-block formula may have just cracked the vitamin C serum code. It's made with ascorbic and ferulic acids—two potent forms of vitamin C—along with green tea extract and vitamin A. Together, the ingredients tackle fine lines, wrinkles, acne, dullness, dark spots, and large pores. According to Nordstrom reviewers, it's "the best of the best," which is pretty impressive considering its $39 price tag.

AS SEEN ON: It's worth noting that Beyoncé herself is a fan of this brand.

WHAT IT DOES: This top-rated pick from SkinMedica is unique because it gradually releases its vitamins throughout the day, so the skin stays protected 24/7. And because it contains ascorbic acid, it works extra hard at fading discoloration—think dark spots, acne scars, and UV damage.

USER REVIEW: "I've been using Skinmedica's Vitamin C + E Complex for years, and it is a staple in my routine. I usually use it every other day in the morning, applying before sunscreen. I alternate with Skinmedica's Retinol 1.0. I could probably use both daily, but my skin is a little sensitive, so I prefer to alternate."

WHAT IT DOES: This unique serum not only addresses brightness thanks to a whopping 20% vitamin C, but it also contains mild AHAs derived from apple, grapefruit, orange, lemon, lime, hawthorn, and jujube to improve the skin's texture and radiance too.

FROM THE EXPERTS: You'll see smoother, more radiant skin in one week, a visible improvement in overall tone in four weeks, and an improvement in skin texture and fine lines in eight.

WHAT IT DOES: Another serum containing a rare 20% concentration of vitamin C, this formula is designed to penetrate deep into the skin to protect against UV damage, fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation, and support collagen and elastin growth. And since it contains hyaluronic acid, it'll leave the skin's hydration levels nice and healthy in the process.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: If you'd like to start with a lower concentration of vitamin C, you can pick this up in a 10% or 15% version instead.

WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT: Never underestimate drugstore skincare. Developed with dermatologists, this affordable serum contains 10% pure vitamin C, three essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and redness-reducing vitamin B5 for brighter, smoother, healthier-looking skin without the high price tag.

HELPFUL TIP: No need to rinse the extra away—rub it on the tops of your hands for extra anti-aging benefits.

WHAT IT DOES: Packed with brightness-boosting vitamin C, ferulic acid, and powerful fruit enzymes, this serum leaves you with radiant, clear, I-woke-up-like-this skin that's perfect for filter-free selfies.

USER REVIEW: "I've been using this serum for a week now, and I can't believe the results. My face is literally glowing! My pores seem tighter, and my overall complexion looks almost perfect, which I've never experienced with any other product (and I have used a lot of pricey products)."

WHY IT MADE THE LIST: It comes as no surprise that so many derms have this product in their own skincare routines. Infused with patent-pending MelaPATH technology that illuminates, refines, and rejuvenates, C+ Correcting Complex defends and corrects the skin-damaging effects of free radicals generated by urban dust and even HEV light—aka the bright screens on our phones and computers.

FROM THE EXPERTS: "It is the product with the highest percentage of vitamin C in a serum, and it is very useful in brightening the skin and helping to fade sunspots. Since I have been using it for the past several months, even in the midst of summer and sun exposure, I have noticed an impressive and considerable difference in my skin. I'm a fan for life!"—Jennifer Hoi, MD, FAAD

WHO IT'S FOR: Want brighter skin but don't want to blow your budget? This one's for you. Packed with vitamin E and botanical hyaluronic acid, this vitamin C serum addresses firmness, dullness, discoloration, fine lines, and more—all for $30. Take a look at the 93,000-plus reviews on Amazon for proof.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: In case you need another reason to love this stuff, it's also plant-based and free of synthetic color, additives, and fragrance.

WHAT IT DOES: This unique vitamin C serum contains not one, but two forms of vitamin C: one to address dark spots and the other to protect against environmental stressors. But that's not all—BeautyCounter finished off the formula with turmeric root extract and camu camu fruit extract, both of which help brighten and even the skin tone.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: Like all BeautyCounter products, this vitamin C serum is Leaping Bunny cruelty-free certified and leaves out over 1,800 harmful ingredients like parabens, phthalates, and synthetic flavor or fragrance.

WHAT IT DOES: Formulated to brighten, firm, and lighten, this cult-favorite serum is clinically proven to reduce damage caused by free radicals. Plus, it combats signs of aging like fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of firmness. 

WHY WE LOVE IT: "Trust me when I say that there truly is no vitamin C serum that works better than this. Although it's not affordable, the bottle lasts me a very long time!"—Jamie Chandlee, CEO