A potent antioxidant that is suitable for all skin types, there’s not a lot that vitamin C can’t do for your skin. From fighting uneven skin tone, dehydration and the appearance of fine lines, to protecting skin from environmental stressors like pollution, this ingredient is a true beauty favourite for a reason.
With the power to visibly brighten your complexion and support collagen production, we consider vitamin C serum a morning routine essential alongside your favourite SPF – when combined, they protect your skin while helping to fade and prevent dark spots). Unsure where to start? Here are some of our favourites.
For Beginners
Go-To Much Brighter Skin
For a simple formula that doesn’t compromise on efficacy, Much Brighter Skin is our go-to.
A hard-working blend of vitamin C, niacinamide and hyaluronic acid make this serum a daily essential for your brightest, bounciest skin yet.
And what’s more? This peach bottle features a cameo from Kakadu plum extract – one of the world’s richest sources of vitamin C – which helps protect skin against signs of premature skin ageing.
For Minimalists
MECCA COSMETICA Skin Brightening Vitamin C Serum
This all-rounder was specifically designed to target your most-asked-about skin concerns, including pigmentation, dark spots and dullness.
15 percent L-ascorbic acid (the highest possible concentration of stabilised vitamin C), liquorice root extract, ferulic acid and vitamin E make this serum perfect for those wanting brighter, more hydrated, even skin in one, simple step.
For Prevention
Dr. Dennis Gross Vitamin C+Lactic 15% Firm & Bright Serum
If uneven texture and dark spots are your primary skin concern, look no further than this Dr. Dennis Gross’ serum.
Lactic acid brightens (alongside L-ascorbic acid) while also promoting cell turnover and increasing the efficacy of other ingredients by way of exfoliation.
The addition of Mulberry extract not only helps protect skin from free radical damage, but has also been shown to inhibit tyrosinase (the enzyme responsible for pigment production), making it key in preventing dark spots and uneven skin tone.
For Dry Skin
Drunk Elephant C-Luma™ Hydrabright Serum
If you’re new to the world of vitamin C – or looking for a gentler approach that doesn’t skip on the results – this newcomer from Drunk Elephant is for you. C-Luma™ uses two milder forms of vitamin C in a lower concentration than Drunk Elephant’s ultra-potent C-Firma™.
Both serums are seriously good, but C-Luma™ is like a pep talk in a bottle for vitamin C beginners.
The gel-serum texture is also fast absorbing and offers instant luminosity – kissing dullness and dryness goodbye.
For Mature Skin
Dr. Lara Devgan Vitamin CBE Ferulic Serum
For a complexion that looks straight out of your favourite celebrity's must-visit skin clinic, we can’t go past Dr. Lara Devgan's powerful blend.
High concentrations of vitamin C, E and ferulic acid help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and uneven skin tone, leaving you with an A-lister glow.
Apply 3-4 drops of this hardworking serum daily for a glow like no other.
For The Full Effect
Known for their science-backed, efficacious formulas, Allies of Skin remain firm favourites of MECCA Skin Specialists and this serum is no exception. A waterless base gives it a unique balm-like texture while ensuring active ingredients remain potent.
Alongside complex powerful antioxidants that work to improve skin texture and fade dark spots over time, pure diamond powder reflects light for an instant lit-from-within-glow. No makeup required!