16 vitamin C serums ranked after years of testing

After four years of testing more than two dozen vitamin C serums, a New York Post health guide is ranking 16 formulas to safely brighten the skin. The roundup reflects a broad market of products that vary in concentration, base formulas and intended skin types, and it draws on the expertise of dermatologists to explain how to choose and use vitamin C safely. The central finding is that there is no one-size-fits-all: at least a dozen options deliver reliable brightness, even skin tone and improved texture, with different tradeoffs in hydration, scent and price. The article also includes an FAQ that explains how vitamin C works, the difference between L-ascorbic acid and esterified forms, and practical tips for daily use.

The top pick is TruSkin Vitamin C Serum, praised for its balance of actives and an accessible price. The formula combines a gentle vitamin C form (sodium ascorbyl phosphate) with hyaluronic acid and aloe to hydrate and soothe. It is fragrance-free and widely used, with thousands of shoppers endorsing its performance. The reviewer notes a quick brightening effect and a noticeable improvement in skin tone after regular use. The product comes in a one-ounce bottle and typically costs under $40.

Best Budget: Good Molecules Vitamin C Serum with Oryzanol is described as delivering noticeable brightness at a fraction of the usual price. The formulation uses two forms of vitamin C—Ascorbyl Glucoside and Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate— totaling about 8% potency, plus 1% Kojic acid ester to help fade sun spots and 1% Oryzanol to boost antioxidant protection. It’s vegan, cruelty-free and simple, with hydration from supporting ingredients. The reviewer notes it layers well under other products and is suitable for daily use, though it may not blur pores as effectively as some higher-end serums.

A mid-market option, the Good Molecules formula has become a fan favorite for those who want measurable brightness without a luxury price tag. The combination of two vitamin C derivatives aims to balance potency with gentleness, and the inclusion of an antioxidant complex helps protect skin throughout the day. The product is housed in a standard bottle that travels well and dispenses with a straightforward pump.

Best Splurge: Joanna Czech The C+ Serum relies on a stable vitamin C form, tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, to deliver deep brightening without rapid oxidation. The serum also contains emollients and skin-loving oils such as squalane and marula oil, creating a luxe texture that many users describe as decadent. Reviewers report fast visible brightness and a more even tone, with comfortable layering under SPF and makeup. The price point is high, and shoppers should consider whether the premium texture and finish justify the cost.

In addition to its luxe texture, the formula is designed to minimize irritation while maximizing penetration. The product is marketed to support a radiant complexion and a barrier‑friendly experience, appealing to those who want a premium, spa-like feel from their daily routine.

Best Clean: Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum uses sodium ascorbyl phosphate and adds ferulic acid and hyaluronic acid to hydrate and stabilize the antioxidant protection. The formula relies on plant‑based actives and a clean‑beauty approach that is cruelty-free, vegan and generally well tolerated. The reviewer notes it is hydrating and soothing, with a gentle scent or none at all, and it provides brightness without irritating the skin, even for sensitive types. It has earned strong reviews from many shoppers, including thousands of Amazon ratings.

What makes this option stand out is its balance of stability and comfort. The product relies on non-irritating forms of vitamin C and layers well with other skincare steps. The hydrating base helps prevent a drying sensation that some vitamin C serums can produce, making it a popular choice for those with dry or reactive skin.

Best for Dry Skin: CeraVe Skin Renewing Vitamin C Serum blends 10% L-ascorbic acid with hyaluronic acid in a dermatologist‑trusted brand. It is often praised for its fresh scent and a moisturizer‑like feel that helps hydrate while brightening. The product is typically priced under $40 and targets dry or dehydrated complexions by combining a stable vitamin C derivative with humectants that help retain moisture.

Best Korean: COSRX The Vitamin C 23 Super Vitamin E + Hyaluronic Acid Serum features a high concentration of vitamin C (23%), combined with vitamin E and hyaluronic acid. Reviewers note a soothing, brightening effect and a glowy finish that helps reduce dullness. The product is also highlighted for its affordability and suitability for layering with other products, including sun protection.

Best L-ascorbic Acid: SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic with 15% L-ascorbic Acid is described as a cult favorite. The formula pairs pure L-ascorbic acid with vitamin E and ferulic acid to boost stability and antioxidant activity. It delivers a noticeable glow and helps with sun damage, but at a higher price point and with a distinct scent that some users may notice.

Best for Hyperpigmentation: Glow Recipe Guava Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum combines multiple brightening agents, including guava, tranexamic acid, and ferulic acid, along with vitamin C to address dark spots. The formula has a pleasant but subtle fragrance, a pump dispenser, and a pink appearance that stands out on shelves. Reviewers say it leaves skin balanced, radiant and less dull, with particular benefit for uneven pigmentation.

Best for Beginners: The Ordinary Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12% is a water-based, budget-friendly option that is easy to dispense and layer. It offers hydration and is generally well tolerated, making it a good entry point for those new to vitamin C serums. Some reviewers note the texture can be runny, requiring careful application, but its price point makes experimentation accessible.

Best for Oily Skin: La Roche-Posay 10% Pure Vitamin C Serum uses a roller application and contains additional ingredients such as salicylic acid, which helps with acne-prone, oilier skin. It has a fresh scent and a non-greasy feel, though some users find it a bit sticky after application. It is pricier than some drugstore options but offers targeted benefits for shine and pores.

Best for Sensitive Skin: Herbivore NOVA 15% Vitamin C + Turmeric Brightening Serum is gentle enough for sensitive skin while delivering brightening benefits. It features 15% THD vitamin C and turmeric, along with arbutin to help fade dark spots. Reviewers praise its lightweight texture and dewy glow, though the price is a consideration for some.

Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Drunk Elephant C-Firma Fresh Vitamin-C Day Serum is acclaimed for a fresh feel and plumping results that help reduce bumpiness from acne. It requires some mixing before use, and its price is a consideration for budget-minded shoppers. The formula centers on 15% L-ascorbic acid with ferulic acid and other actives to support brightening while addressing breakouts.

Best for Large Pores: Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum has a luxe pump dispenser and a thicker texture that nourishes as it brightens. It includes 10% vitamin C and white shiitake extract, plus squalane to support the skin barrier. Shoppers note it leaves the skin looking balanced and luminous, though the price point is higher.

Best for Dull Skin: TULA Brightening Treatment Drops Vitamin C Serum is described as ocean‑cool and hydrating, with two forms of vitamin C and probiotic extracts that support a bright, healthy glow. Reviewers appreciate its smooth texture and refreshing feel, while some note the price may be a hurdle for some buyers.

Best for Quick Results: Kiehl’s Since 1851 Powerful-Strength Vitamin C Serum 12.5% delivers a frictionless, fragrance‑free application and tends to blur pores and target problem areas rapidly. It offers a hydrating base with hyaluronic acid, and many users report noticeable brightness after a short period. The price sits at a premium, but the larger bottle size can offset cost over time.

Best for Normal Skin: innisfree Green Tea Enzyme Vitamin C Brightening Serum features green tea extract and tangerine peel to soothe and brighten without heavy hydration. Its lightweight texture makes it a fit for sensitive or combo skin, though it may not be as hydrating as some other serums.

The guide emphasizes that the best vitamin C serum depends on skin type, budget and tolerance for scent or texture. Dermatologists emphasize that vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that can help prevent collagen breakdown and brighten skin with consistent use, usually within a few weeks to months. They caution that concentrations between 10% and 20% are often effective, and that esterified and water-based forms have different stability and absorption characteristics. The author notes that four years of testing culminated in 16 standouts and a broader set of tested products that did not make the cut. For the best results, apply after cleansing and before moisturizer and sunscreen, and use daily if tolerated. The piece is by Victoria Giardina, with input from a dermatologist, and aims to help consumers navigate a crowded market without overpaying.