What does vitamin C do for your skin?

Vitamin C brightens skin tone, fades dark spots, and protects against environmental damage. As a powerful antioxidant, it neutralises free radicals whilst stimulating collagen production for firmer, more radiant skin.

How often should you use vitamin C serum?

Start with once daily application, preferably in the morning. Vitamin C works best under SPF during the day, providing additional protection against UV damage and pollution.

Can beginners use vitamin C serum?

Absolutely! Start with a lower concentration (10-15%) and gentle forms like Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate. Always introduce gradually and follow with SPF during the day.

Does vitamin C help with dark spots?

Yes! Vitamin C is highly effective at fading hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and uneven skin tone. Most people see improvements in skin brightness within 4-6 weeks of consistent use.

Can you use vitamin C with retinol?

Yes, but use them at different times. Apply vitamin C in the morning for antioxidant protection, and retinol in the evening for anti-ageing benefits. This prevents potential irritation from mixing.

Is vitamin C safe for sensitive skin?

Yes, with the right formulation. Choose stable forms like Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate or Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, which are gentler than L-Ascorbic Acid whilst still delivering effective results.

What's the difference between vitamin C serum and cream?

Serums typically contain higher concentrations and absorb more quickly, making them ideal for targeting specific concerns. Creams offer hydration alongside vitamin C benefits, perfect for dry or mature skin types.

How long does vitamin C take to work?

Initial brightness can be seen within 1-2 weeks. Significant improvements in dark spots and skin tone typically appear after 6-8 weeks of consistent daily use.

Can you use vitamin C under makeup?

Yes! Vitamin C serums absorb quickly and create an excellent base for makeup. Always allow 10-15 minutes for full absorption before applying SPF and makeup.

Does vitamin C make your skin more sensitive to sun?

No, vitamin C actually provides additional protection against UV damage. However, always use SPF 30+ during the day, as this is essential for any effective skincare routine.

What should you not mix with vitamin C?

Avoid mixing with AHA/BHA acids and benzoyl peroxide in the same routine, as these can destabilise vitamin C. Use these ingredients at different times for optimal results.

Is vitamin C suitable for breakout-prone skin?

Yes! Vitamin C helps prevent clogged pores and has anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm breakouts whilst fading post-blemish marks and scarring.

Best Vitamin C Serums 2026

Transform your skincare routine with our expertly curated guide to the best vitamin C serums. Whether you're looking to brighten dull skin, fade dark spots, or protect against environmental damage, discover the perfect vitamin C product for your skin type and concerns.

What Is Vitamin C and Why Does Your Skin Need It?

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that's considered essential for healthy, radiant skin. This potent ingredient works by neutralising free radicals, stimulating collagen production, and inhibiting melanin formation for brighter, more even-toned skin.

Key Benefits of Vitamin C:

Brightens skin tone by inhibiting excess melanin production

Fades dark spots and hyperpigmentation through gentle exfoliation

Boosts collagen synthesis for firmer, more youthful-looking skin

Protects against environmental damage as a powerful antioxidant

Improves skin texture by promoting healthy cell turnover

Minimises pore appearance by keeping them clear of debris

Evens skin tone by addressing pigmentation and dark spots

Helps with breakouts by preventing clogged pores

Types of Vitamin C: Which Form is Right for You?

Not all vitamin C is created equal. Different forms offer unique benefits for different skin types.

L-Ascorbic Acid - The most potent form, but can be irritating for sensitive skin

Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate - Gentle and stable, perfect for sensitive skin types

Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate - Hydrating and less likely to cause irritation

How to Use Vitamin C

Starting your vitamin C journey? Follow this step-by-step guide to introduce vitamin C safely and effectively into your routine.

Step 1: Start Low and Slow

Begin with a low concentration (10-15%) and use daily from the start. Vitamin C is generally gentler than retinol, but starting conservatively ensures optimal results.

Step 2: Perfect Your Application

1. Cleanse thoroughly with a gentle cleanser

2. Apply to clean, dry skin - no waiting time needed

3. Use 2-3 drops for your entire face and neck

4. Gently pat and press into skin until fully absorbed

5. Always follow with SPF 30+ (vitamin C enhances sun protection)

Step 3: Build Your Routine

Week 1: Monitor for any irritation (rare but possible)
Week 2-4: Consistent daily use - you may notice initial brightening
Week 6-8: Visible improvements in dark spots and skin tone
Ongoing: Maintain daily use for continued antioxidant protection

Best Time to Use Vitamin C

Always apply vitamin C in the morning. Vitamin C provides antioxidant protection against environmental damage throughout the day, whilst working synergistically with SPF for enhanced UV protection.

What Can You Mix with Vitamin C?

Safe to Mix

Hyaluronic Acid - Perfect combination for hydration + brightening

Niacinamide - Reduces irritation whilst enhancing benefits

SPF - Essential pairing for maximum protection

Ceramides & Peptides - Great for barrier support

Vitamin E - Stabilizes vitamin C and boosts antioxidant power

Use with Caution

Retinol - Use at different times (vitamin C morning, retinol evening)

AHA/BHA Acids - Can destabilize some vitamin C forms; separate by time

Avoid Mixing

Benzoyl Peroxide - Can oxidize vitamin C, reducing effectiveness

Copper Peptides - May cause vitamin C to oxidize

Shop Vitamin C Serum

4.4

Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars

4.4 Stars (605 Reviews)

15% Vitamin C + EGF Serum

Give your skin a brightening boost with this powerful yet gentle 15% Vitamin C & EGF Serum. Designed to target dullness and uneven skin tone, it helps visibly reduce hyperpigmentation and promote a radiant, more even complexion. With a lightweight, fast-absorbing texture, this serum layers effortlessly into your routine, delivering rejuvenating benefits without any stickiness, morning or night.

Key Benefits:
Visibly brightens skin and evens out skin tone
Helps reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and dullness
Lightweight non-sticky formula that absorbs instantly for easy layering

Key Ingredients:
• 15% Ascorbyl Glucoside (Vitamin C) - helps brighten skin and reduce visible signs of sun damage like hyperpigmentation
• 1% Epitensive™ (plant-derived EGF) - supports skin regeneration and improves elasticity

Suitable For: All Skin Types, Hyperpigmentation, Dull skin

What our customers say: "I really love this serum. I'm on my third bottle and my skin has never looked so clear, glowy and revitalized. I'm getting loads of compliments and people asking if I have had "anything done". Will never be without it." - Karen

€17,00

FAQs

Vitamin C brightens skin tone, fades dark spots, and protects against environmental damage. As a powerful antioxidant, it neutralises free radicals whilst stimulating collagen production for firmer, more radiant skin.
Start with once daily application, preferably in the morning. Vitamin C works best under SPF during the day, providing additional protection against UV damage and pollution.
Absolutely! Start with a lower concentration (10-15%) and gentle forms like Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate. Always introduce gradually and follow with SPF during the day.
Yes! Vitamin C is highly effective at fading hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and uneven skin tone. Most people see improvements in skin brightness within 4-6 weeks of consistent use.
Yes, but use them at different times. Apply vitamin C in the morning for antioxidant protection, and retinol in the evening for anti-ageing benefits. This prevents potential irritation from mixing.
Yes, with the right formulation. Choose stable forms like Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate or Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, which are gentler than L-Ascorbic Acid whilst still delivering effective results.
Serums typically contain higher concentrations and absorb more quickly, making them ideal for targeting specific concerns. Creams offer hydration alongside vitamin C benefits, perfect for dry or mature skin types.
No, vitamin C actually provides additional protection against UV damage. However, always use SPF 30+ during the day, as this is essential for any effective skincare routine.
Avoid mixing with AHA/BHA acids and benzoyl peroxide in the same routine, as these can destabilise vitamin C. Use these ingredients at different times for optimal results.

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