Which Vitamin C Serum is Best? A Complete Guide to Choosing the Right One for Your Skin

Thinking of incorporating vitamin C serum into your daily routine? Well, it can be a game-changer for glowing and youthful skin, but wait… only if you get your hands on the right formulation. Now you must be thinking what do we mean by the ‘right formulation?’ and with the market inundated with so many products, choosing the right one can be a little daunting.
Let us help you with that!
What Is Vitamin C Serum?
Vitamin C serum is a potent antioxidant that is applied to deliver a concentrated dose of nutrients to the skin. It provides your skin with benefits like brightening, boosting collagen production, and reducing hyperpigmentation. Generally, vitamin C serums come in various concentrations. But if you’re just starting, opt for serums with vitamin C concentrations between 10% and 20%, perfect for beginners and sensitive skin.
Benefits Of Using A Vitamin C Serum
Now what are the benefits? Well, the best vitamin C serum for face:
- Brightens the skin and gives your skin a radiant glow
- Boosts collagen production, reduces fine lines and wrinkles
- Protects against environmental stressors like pollution, sun damage, cold, and heat
- Evens out skin tone and deals with hyperpigmentation
How To Choose The Best Vitamin C Serum?
It’s natural to get confused with so many vitamin C serums available in the market today. That being said, with a little bit of research work, you’ll be able to get your hands on the right one that caters to your skin needs.
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- Ingredients: The best vitamin C serum for face contains potent ingredients like 3-0-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Kakadu Plum, Moringa, and Hyaluronic Acid.
- Concentration: Additionally, as mentioned earlier, opt for serums with vitamin C concentrations between 10% and 20% as they are perfect for beginners and sensitive skin peeps.
- Packaging: Vitamin C serum is highly sensitive to light, air, and heat, which can degrade its stability and effectiveness. So before committing to any product, make sure to check the packaging for its potency and shelf life.
Best Vitamin C Serums in India
Here are some of the best vitamin C serums available in India based on different budgets and skin types:
- CITTA 12% Vitamin C Brightening Face Serum
- Dot & Key 20% Vitamin C Serum
- Minimalist 10% Vitamin C Serum
- Dr. Sheth’s 20% Vitamin C + E + Ferulic Acid Serum
- Plum 15% Vitamin C Serum With Mandarin
How To Apply Vitamin C Serum For Best Results?
AM Routine
It’s not that we’re saying that you can’t use vitamin C serum during the night, but the ideal time is in the morning. It protects the skin from environmental damage throughout the day. Start with a gentle cleanser to remove impurities, dirt, and oil. Then prep it with a toner before applying vitamin C serum. Now take 3-5 drops of your best vitamin C serum and gently pat (not rub) it onto your skin. Opt for serums with vitamin C concentrations between 10% and 20%, perfect for beginners and sensitive skin. Wait for some time (2-3 minutes) to let the serum sink in before layering other products. Lock in hydration with a lightweight moisturizer. Always finish with SPF 50 PA++++ to protect your skin from sun damage.
PM Routine
Some love to incorporate vitamin C serum into their PM routine. But yes, it’s optional! You can start by double cleansing your face to get rid of all the dirt and impurities accumulated on your skin throughout the day. Prep your skin with a toner just like in the morning and apply a few drops of vitamin C serum to your face, pat, and let it absorb. Lock in moisture with a nourishing night cream.
Common Mistakes To Avoid When Using Vitamin C Serum
Even the best vitamin C serum won’t work if you’re making these mistakes.
- A little goes a long way. Avoid applying too much.
- Never forget your SPF as vitamin C serum makes your skin more sensitive to the sun.
- Avoid pairing vitamin C serum with benzoyl peroxide or high concentrations of AHAs/ BHAs.
- Don’t (we repeat don’t) use an expired product.
The Bottom Line
Now that you’ve gotten an idea of the best vitamin C serums available in the market, go grab yours. Remember, using it correctly can help you achieve the skin you’ve been wishing for.