8 Best Vitamin C Serums 2024: Recommended By Experts

The Ordinary Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12%

“By now, you probably know my stance on vitamin C serums: They aren’t right for everyone, particularly those with very sensitive or reactive skin. Still, the sway of brighter, protected skin (vitamin C is an antioxidant, so it shields skin against environmental aggressors like pollution and even UV when used alongside SPF) is strong.

“Considering my skin doesn’t do very well with pure vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid on ingredients lists) I asked GP and dermatology expert Dr Anita Sturnham for advice. She pointed me in the direction of ascorbyl glucoside: It’s derived from vitamin C but is much less potent than L-ascorbic acid. “It’s the only derivative of vitamin C which is converted into ascorbic acid in the skin, so you get all the ascorbic acid benefits without the reaction,” she told me. This serum makes my skin gleam in all the right places and fades red skin staining left behind by acne breakouts quickly, all without the dreaded tingle, or worse, sting of pure vitamin C. Even better? It’s under $15.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, Deputy Beauty Director

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