Vitamin C
This antioxidant is a powerhouse ingredient that protects your skin from damage, brightens, boosts collagen production, and treats signs of aging. But not all Vitamin C serums are created equal. Next time you’re browsing the skincare aisle or internet for a new serum, make sure you do some research first.
To make it easier for you, I did some of the research already for you! 🙂 You should know that there are different forms and concentrations of Vitamin C. What’s best? Most effective? Keep reading to find out!
L-Ascorbic Acid
Be wary, this is the most irritating and least stable form of Vitamin C. It’s the most effective but oxidizes extremely fast. To be effective, it must be stabilized. The shelf life of unstabilized Ascorbic Acid is 6 months.
Vitamin C Derivatives
A derivative is a compound added to help to prevent the degradation of vitamin C. They’re more stable, less irritating for your skin, and not as sensitive to light.
Possible derivatives include:
ascorbyl palmitate;
magnesium ascorbyl palmitate;
magnesium ascorbyl phosphate;
calcium ascorbat;
sodium ascorbate; and
sodium acorbyl phosphate.
My Favorite Clean Beauty Vitamin C Serums
Hynt Beauty Vitamin C Ester Brightening Serum
This clean + eco-friendly beauty brand just launched this new Vitamin C serum and they kindly sent me one to try out.
Why I like it: It contains Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (Stable Form Vitamin C Ester), niacinamide (also brightens skin), hyaloronic acid (hydrates), and other vegan ingredients to lighten, brighten and boost radiance. It’s fast-absorbing, lightweight gel-cream texture ($79)
JMA Organics – Radiance Boost
JMA Organics is a mother and daughter-owned handcrafted organic skincare company based in Oakland, California. Their ingredients are USDA certified organic, vegan, and safe.
Why I like it: It contains an oil-based derivative of Vitamin C that targets fine lines and hyperpigmentation. It’s also blended with antioxidant-rich pomegranate and blackberry oils, which nourish skin and protect against pollutants. I was SO impressed with this oil-based serum! My complexion looked radiant, hydrated, and healthy after each use. Absorbed fast and felt lightweight. $79.
Wabi-Sabi Botanicals – LIGHT REVEAL
Why I like it: This brightening eye and facial serum is made with Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, a non-irritating form of vitamin C. Also contains caffeine to depuff and brighten skin, natural carotenoids to even skin texture, fruity oils, and superantioxidants to brighten skin.
This brightening eye and facial serum boosts skin radiance and evens skin tone and texture with botanical actives. The vibrant, fruity oil is infused with our C³ Complex – non-irritating vitamin C, natural carotenoids, and caffeine – to give skin a bright, smooth and even appearance. $30.
What’s your favorite vitamin C serum? Comment below!
