Vitamin C in Skin Care: Top Benefits & 4 Formulations That Really Work

Vitamin C is on every skincare brands' list these days right next to Hyaluronic Acid. At least once a week I get a message or an email or a client asking why it is important and what it does. Most of all people want to know why they need Vitamin C in their skincare lineup. So here it is in super simple terms.

It makes your skin stronger and makes other ingredients work more efficient.

Vitamin C has a tiny molecular structure so it absorbs fast into the skin. By applying it first it acts as a little tugboat to bring all the other serums and creams into the skin. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that lifts, firms, brightens, reduces the appearance of dark spots, and aides in the efficacy of SPF. Basically, it is a super ingredient. BUT, here is the key, it MUST be paired with vitamin E.

Not all Vitamin C in skin care products is created equal. For one, there are two different formulations--either the L ascorbic acid or Ascorbyl Palmitate. What is the difference?

L ascorbic acid is a less expensive version of vitamin C so it has to have a higher concentration. It is also a bit less stable. But, because it is water soluble it absorbs better into the skin. If you break out easily from Vitamin C products check if it is L ascorbic acid. It can be super stimulating. Try switching to an Ascorbyl palmitate version to see if it helps.

Ascorbyl Palmitate is fat-soluble rather than water-soluble. It is less irritating, more stable and highly effective. But, it is more expensive due to the need to be blended with other ingredients carefully.

Ok, so there is the nitty-gritty.

Vitamin C in Skin Care:

CEO by Sunday Riley $85 p/oz - The texture of this serum is probably why I like it so much. It is a bit stimulating so I use a different version if my skin is hormonal. By the end of the first bottle, I noticed my skin had a more even appearance in color. (L ascorbic - 15%)

Cesta by Jan Marini $110 p/oz - This is by far the Vitamin C serum I use most often. When I am on vacation I use this and SPF and that is it! My skin GLOWS when I use it and it does not break me out. (Ascorbyl Palmitate) Use Esthetician code: 09323 for 10% off your first order + free shipping.

C POWER ANTIOXIDANT VITAMIN C SERUM $62 p/oz - This is one of my favorite serums. It absorbs so quickly, isn't sticky or stinky. It also has fast and noticeable results with brightening the skin. (Ascorbyl Phosphate)

Drunk Elephant $80 p/oz - I started using this serum after receiving it in a Popsugar box. The texture is light, quick absorbing and not sticky. Plus, a little goes a long way so the bottle lasts forever. *Part of Sephora's Clean Beauty Program (L ascorbic )

Loving this vitamin C in skin care feature? Take a look here for more of my beauty favorites!