6 Best for Hyperpigmentation
L’Oréal Paris Revita
Pros
- Tip applicator is good for spot-treating marks
- Absorbs quickly; doesn’t leave residue
- Brightens skin and smooths fine lines
Formulated for optimal skin absorption, the airtight packaging on this standout L’Oréal Paris product helps ensure that the vitamin C inside stays stable and therefore effective.
GH Beauty Lab experts think it’s especially great for targeting hyperpigmentation (a.k.a. dark spots) since you can use the precise, pointed applicator to spot treat problem areas. Reviewers raved that “skin looks brighter” and “smoother” after using this serum. However, a few also noted that it felt oily or greasy when applying.
7 Best for Dry Skin
OAM 20% Vitamin C Brightening Serum
Pros
- Slow release delivery system
- High concentration of vitamin C
- Lightweight formula
- Nice scent
Light and powerful without irritation? Yes, really. A GH Beauty Award winner, OAM’s featherlight formula utilizes a time-release delivery system to gradually release its 20% concentration of vitamin C (a combination of three different types) into skin. Our Beauty Lab data evaluation confirmed that in a study of 96 women with a full range of skin tones using image analysis, skin radiance was significantly improved after eight weeks of use.
8 Best for Beginners
Yes To Grapefruit Daily Brightening Serum
Pros
- Gentle on skin
- Brightening
This Yes To serum is dermatologist-recommended for those who are new to vitamin C treatments. “For something a little more accessible, and a great entry into vitamin C, I love this treatment,” says Dr. Yadav. “It’s widely available, gentle on the skin and contains grapefruit, which adds another citrus ingredient into the mix!” You can use it directly on your skin or mix a few drops into your favorite moisturizer.
9 Best for Acne-Prone Skin
SkinCeuticals Silymarin CF Serum
- Contains acne-fighting active ingredients
- Clarifies skin
- Lightweight
A GH Beauty Award winner and variation on SkinCeuticals’ popular CE Ferulic serum, this formula contains salicylic acid and is specially formulated for oily and blemish-prone skin. Though it’s a splurge, it delivers results: “Based on data review, this is effective for improving skin clarity and texture,” Wizemann reports.
10 Best for Sensitive Skin
Bliss Bright Idea Vitamin C & Tri-Peptide Collagen Serum
Pros
- Good for sensitive skin
- Helps with collagen production
Perfect for easily aggravated skin, this serum from Bliss is formulated with a newer form of vitamin C called 3-O ethyl ascorbic acid, which is thought to be less irritating without sacrificing efficacy.The formula is collagen-protecting and brightening to fade dark spots, firm skin and improve texture. The brand claims the formula is ultra-stable, so it can live right in your medicine cabinet or vanity.
11 Best for Mature Skin
SOBEL SKIN Rx 35% Vitamin C Fusion Serum
Pros
- High percentage of vitamin C
- Gentle lotion texture
- Brightens and fades dark spots
Think of this one as a super serum for dull or uneven skin. It combines three types of vitamin C for a grand total of 35% — significantly higher than many others we’ve seen — to brighten and tighten skin. You may want to steer clear if you have sensitive skin as it is extremely concentrated and potent.
