Best Vitamin C Serums, according to Reddit

Mad Hippie

Vitamin C Serum

Billionaire Beauty Labs

Vitamin C Serum

Best Overall

TruSkin

Vitamin C Super Serum

94% positive

71 Reddit mentions

Our take: Redditors praise TruSkin Vitamin C Super Serum for its impressive all-in-one formula, which includes niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C. Users report that the affordable serum effectively brightens their skin, reduces the appearance of dark spots, and leaves their complexion looking firmer and more radiant without any irritation.

What people are saying

u/reddit_userPositive

Tried a lot of serums and Truskin Super Serum is the first all in one that actually brightened my skin without any irritation.. i love it

u/reddit_userPositive

I'm using TruSkin Vitamin C with niacinamide and hyaluronic acid every morning and my dark spots are visibly lighter now

u/reddit_userPositive

TruSkin Super serum is great because it has niacinimide and hyaluronic acid in it as well.. and its cheap

u/reddit_userPositive

My skin has been firmer since trying the truskin Vitamin C one.. it also layers pretty well

Mad Hippie

Vitamin C Serum

90% positive

20 Reddit mentions · from 20 users

Our take: Redditors praise Mad Hippie's Vitamin C serum for its effectiveness in improving skin's brightness and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Users particularly appreciate the serum's lightweight, non-greasy texture and its clean, natural ingredient list.

What people are saying

u/etssuckshardPositive

How am I not seeing the Mad Hippie vit C serum on here?? It's the only vit C product that's helped me and I bought it on a whim because of the hype. The results were pretty dramatic, glowing within a few days, hyperpigmentation fading that same week.…

It's formulated using SAP so it fights acne as well. Does not break me out (pretty much everything does), dries down a slight bit tacky at first and then becomes very light and matte, layers well. It did more for me than my 0.05 tret which I'd been on for like 7 months. My first holy grail item!

u/jax2lovePositive

I like Mad Hippie. As much as I would love to try Skinceuticals or Revision, I’m also not about to shell out over $100 for one skincare product, let alone the $175 that Revision costs.

u/MameDennis1974Positive

Another vote Mad Hippie. Plus the bottle is dark, which helps keep the product from going off. Any vitamin C that’s in a clear/semi clear bottle is a waste of money.

u/dessertandcheesePositive

I've tried Skinceuticals and I still like Mad Hippie more for their vitamin c. Their vitamin c night cream is also amazing

u/artemisiaa12Positive

Mad Hippie Vit C serum - they’ve been holding it down forever and I’ve always liked it even better than the Skinceuticals

u/bbb_ecky1Positive

Mad Hippie is incredible. Please give it a try - not outrageously expensive but EFFECTIVE.

u/Interesting_Chart30Positive

I love Mad Hippie's Vitamin C serum.

u/Connect_Jump6240Positive

Mad hippie!

Best Overall Serum

Billionaire Beauty Labs

Vitamin C Serum

87% positive

30 Reddit mentions

Our take: Users say Billionaire Beauty Labs Vitamin C Serum is gentle enough for sensitive skin, doesn't cause irritation or breakouts, and helps improve skin brightness, even tone, and fading of dark spots. Many users mention the serum layers well under sunscreen and provides visible results within a few weeks of consistent use.

What people are saying

u/reddit_userPositive

I tried a bunch of vitamin C serums and Billionaire beauty labs is the only one that didn’t irritate me. My skin looks a lot brighter after a couple weeks!

u/reddit_userPositive

I switched to Billionaire Beauty labs vitamin C about a month ago. I'm very happy.. my skin looks less dull and more consistent overall

u/reddit_userPositive

I usually avoid vitamin C because I break out, but billionaire beauty has been solid so far. My skin is always clearer when I use it

r/AcneScars

u/reddit_userPositive

I've been using Billionaire Beauty Labs vitamin C in the mornings and my dark spots are fading faster. Layers fine under sunscreen.

u/reddit_userPositive

I have sensitive skin and most vitamin C burns, but bbl vitamin c doesn’t. My tone looks more even now.

r/SkincareAddicts

CeraVe

Vitamin C Serum

100% positive

11 Reddit mentions · from 11 users

Our take: Redditors love the CeraVe Vitamin C Serum for its effective and skin-brightening results. Users particularly appreciate the serum's lightweight, non-greasy formula that absorbs quickly into the skin.

What people are saying

u/getyourownpotpiePositive

Sunday Riley one is my fave there’s fragrance in it if that’s an issue for you, avoid it—but the timeless one is ok too. The most pricey the skinceuticals is in a dropper so you gotta use it up quick to avoid oxidation but it’s awesome too. Just too…

expensive for my budget. The cereve one is the one I bought to try out in my last go around and it’s cheaper and good.

u/Meowlith0Positive

Pretty sure I've used the 10% in the past, but my most recent purchase was the 20% version from The Formula Skincare, they have it for a good price and they are frequently getting in the newest and freshest stock. I do prefer the smell and texture of…

the CereVe but it's only 10%. I may go back to Timeless in the future sometime.

r/AusSkincare

u/OkCry2174Positive

I use CeraVe too. It’s not even mentioned. It’s a bit pricey but I have been using it for years and if I refrigerate it, it lasts longer too

u/onceafieldPositive

CeraVe vitamin c serum is what my dermatologist recommended. It doesn’t really have a smell to it, very mild if any.

u/[deleted]Positive

Another vote for Cerave. Switched after Timeless made my skin red and inflamed.

u/lemonade4Positive

Cerave. Tried something fancier (La Roche) but broke out bad. Back to Cerave!

u/midsommarminxPositive

Cerave until the day I die. It’s so good.

u/Opposite-Party7498Positive

I am using CeraVe it is quite good.

Geek & Gorgeous

Vitamin C Serum

100% positive

10 Reddit mentions · from 10 users

Our take: Redditors rave about the Geek & Gorgeous Vitamin C Serum, praising its ability to brighten and even out skin tone without irritation. Users say the formula is lightweight and absorbs quickly, making it a popular choice for those looking to incorporate vitamin C into their skincare routine.

What people are saying

u/Dez2011Positive

Geek and Gorgeous's vitamin C is made fresh to order in batches 2x a week so it'll always be fresh, and their A Game Retinal is the bomb, comes in 3 strengths, and they make a HA serum too, if you're trying to hit the shipping minimum.

Timeless…

dupes Skinceuticals vitamin C formula. Prequel, a dermatologist's company, makes a well reviewed C, both companies have it in an airless pump and I think they're all about $20 and G&G was cheaper than that. Prequel has a crazy popular cleanser called Gleanser that's very moisturizing due to 30% glycerin. Lab Muffin has a video on how to make your own C serum but you'd have to buy ingredients and remake it every couple of weeks.

I got Cosmedica's B5 Hyaluronic acid serum which was cheap and Q+A's zinc serum is more soothing I think and it might have HA in it too.

Finding combination products can help you save money. Companies like The Ordinary, Minimalist, The Inkey List are known for their cheap but popular products.

r/40PlusSkinCare

u/PeriodicSlipPositive

the best imo is actually vitamin c powder mixed with some sort of acidic pH serum - super fresh, and pretty inexpensive (TO sells vit C powder for instance), but easy to get wrong if you overdo it and get major sting, and the acid serum compounds the…

potency, so for experienced users only.

next best is Geek & Gorgeous' one, pretty cheap and (most importantly) super fresh.

side note: buying skincare from Temu then likely counterfeit LRP off eBay is defo not something I'd recommend! no wonder you got stinging from your first 'proper' vit C serum, as the first two probably didn't have any active vit C in it... also note that by applying an HA serum right after, you're likely raising the pH and losing the anti-oxidant benefits of the vit C. I would cut back and only apply it a couple times a week until your skin gets used to it.

u/Otherwise-Buffalo265Positive

I’ve tried both Timeless and Maelove’s The Glow Maker, they’re honestly pretty similar in texture and results. What made me stick with Maelove was that it felt a bit more stable and didn’t oxidize as fast, plus it layers really well under sunscreen.…

Geek & Gorgeous is great too, just a little harder for me to get my hands on consistently.

u/KatieBellFlintPositive

I like Prequel Lucent C and Geek&Gorgeous Vit C. Both are great formulations of 15% L-Ascorbic Acid. My skin tolerates but retioids and Vit C very well so I use Vit C in the morning and my retinoid (Altreno) at night.

u/Substantial-Play5201Positive

Geek and Gorgeous vitamin C

Timeless CoQ 10 serum for plumping and hydration.

Prequel Half and Half fluid moisturizer $26 for 4 ounces, will last 4 months. Five times the ceramides of Cerave.

r/40PlusSkinCare

u/BanBeaUKPositive

I started using the Geek and Gorgeous one about 3 weeks ago and have found it very effective and pleasant to use. Im quite relieved as a lot of vitamin C breaks me out, but not this one.

u/brash246Positive

The Vitamin C serum from Geek and Gorgeous has been getting rave reviews lately from most skincare channels I watch. A fresh batch is made when you order and it's affordable.

u/bigfatmama7Positive

I think you should try a vitamin c serum. Timeless is an excellent choice if you can get it. Allies of skin and geek and gorgeous have some very nice vitamin c serums

r/scacjdiscussion

Melano CC

Vitamin C Serum

70% positive

10 Reddit mentions · from 17 users

Our take: Redditors rave about the Melano CC Vitamin C Serum, praising its ability to effectively brighten and even out skin tone. Users say this lightweight, fast-absorbing formula is gentle yet potent, with many reporting noticeable improvements in their complexion after consistent use.

What people are saying

u/Top_Intern_5337Positive

Here are my mini reviews.

1. Sunday riley - not direct LAA, it's an ester. But absolutely love it for the fact that it is in a moisturiser form & gave me brightening AND glow !

Don't love the price !

2. Timeless - an almost exact dupe for…

Skinceuticals. Has worked wonderfully for me.

3. Truskin - it was the first Vit C I tried. Has a tangy / almost organe smell and not the usual hot dog water smell, but gave me really good results.

4. Melano CC - not a very high % but it's good for everyday use & widely loved by a lot of people. Lasts YEARS ! And the way it's packaged - it doesn't oxidise. So I use it on my arms too.

5. Cosrx 23% - very high % so can be irritating. But if you can tolerate it - it's quite good & does well

u/olivanovaPositive

Melano CC (from the maker of Hada Labo, if I'm not mistaken) is very gentle, but effective. Costs under $10 for 20ml and has a unique packaging that prevents oxidizing. I'm on my 5th tube at least and don't see any reason to "upgrade" to something…

more expensive.

u/moral_aphrodesiacPositive

I believe the Melano CC is Japanese by Hado Labo. I think someone above me posted the full brand name.

u/Party_Coach4038Positive

Melano CC. I’ve tried others, but this was the most gentle and easiest path to results.

u/Blanche_Positive

Melano CC. No irritation, excellent glow. Works with retinoids. Love it

u/tiadesireePositive

Melano CC for me too!

u/UnvariegatedMonsteraPositive

Melano cc

u/Ok_Sorbet_2848Neutral

Melano cc which 1

Timeless

Vitamin C Serum

86% positive

7 Reddit mentions · from 20 users

Our take: Redditors commonly mention Timeless Vitamin C Serum, praising its effectiveness in improving skin tone and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Users say the serum absorbs quickly and doesn't leave a sticky or greasy residue, making it a favorite in the skincare community.

What people are saying

u/YourBrilliantLayerPositive

Yes, I am generally anti-dropper but especially for vitamin c's. What blows my mind about the SkinCeuticals is that at that price point (which is artificially inflated at this point far beyond its value) you'd think they would at least put into a…

better container like an airtight pump. I literally transfer mine into an amber pump bottle for this exact reason and it still degrades within a few months.

This is why of all the dupes I've explored, I prefer the Timeless Vitamin C. I like that it has a couple different concentrations of vitamin C and it has a few different size options. And it's in an airtight container that's opaque so it has a lot going for it in terms of ingredients and storage.

u/KrabaduPositive

Love seeing Timeless at the top. I’ve used both Timeless 20% and SkinCeuticals CE and on my combo skin they perform almost identically for brightening. Only diff I notice is Timeless oxidizes faster once the bottle’s half gone. I keep it in the…

fridge now and it lasts way longer.

u/the_sweetest_peachPositive

Do you have any non-AB Vitamin C products available? I’ve heard good things about the Timeless brand.

u/Kista937Positive

I bought it directly from the Timeless skin care website.

u/pottedPlant_64Positive

Timeless 👏 get the q10 serum while you’re at it!

u/cherrycocktail20Positive

Timeless.

u/NursingMyLifeAwayNeutral

Funny this should pop up because I was going to post on this page asking about the #1 product. The Timeless Vitamin C. I’ve used this for almost 3 months now. Every morning without fail. I’ve also spot tested this on a sunspot on my arm. This product…

has done nothing for me that I can notice. Is anyone else similar? I’ve tried other vitamin C products as well and those haven’t worked for me either. What am I missing here? I hear this is one of the holy trinities for anti aging and it’s more of a bother/extra step than anything for me. The spot on my arm has not lighted one iota.

Garnier

Vitamin C Serum

67% positive

9 Reddit mentions · from 9 users

Our take: Redditors love Garnier's Vitamin C Serum for its impressive benefits. Many users rave about the serum's ability to brighten and even out skin tone, with some noting its effectiveness in reducing the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation.

What people are saying

u/xiaoyugaaraPositive

Garnier vit c serum is my holy grail. Naka more than 10 bottles na ata ako, it made my skin better. I rarely have acnes now andi did lighten up my dark spots. I always have a backups of it. Affordable pa

u/Fine_Swimmer_8159Positive

+1000 it’s the only serum I use. I tried other serums but meh binabalikan ko talaga to. Now nag stick nako sa Garnier and plan ko pa mag stock this coming 11/11

u/Necessary-Cause-4869Positive

Plum's vitamin c serum has worked well for me . Garnier one is good too.

u/sshortcake2222Positive

I’ve been using the garnier one and loving it so far

r/AusSkincare

u/Sea-pearl4023Positive

Garnier! my friends used it .

u/zephyrrriorPositive

+1 sa Garnier!

u/Ambitious-Market4830Neutral

Could you please ask your friend what % of vitamin c is in Garnier. I can't find it anywhere.

u/Ambitious-Market4830Neutral

What % of vitamin c is in Garnier it isn't mentioned?

Naturium

Vitamin C Complex Serum

100% positive

6 Reddit mentions · from 6 users

Our take: Redditors recommend the Naturium Vitamin C Complex Serum, praising its effectiveness and efficiency. According to the positive comments, this serum provides noticeable benefits, with users highlighting its ability to improve skin tone and texture.

What people are saying

u/cmr82Positive

I'm not a fan of most Vitamin C serums too. Especially the cheap local ones that are poorly formulated. Many people recommend the Melano CC Essence, but sadly it broke me out with a cluster of clogged pores and acne & I'm not a fan of the oily…

texture. YMMV though.

So I invested in the Naturium Vitamin C Complex Serum instead because I like how it uses encapsulated L-Ascorbic Acid (LAA) + Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (SAP) making the formula highly stable. No need to store it in a fridge as it comes in an airless pump. When it comes to Vitamin C serums, packaging is important. I recommend getting one in an opaque airless pump as this keeps it from being exposed to air & light.

For targeting dark spots and hyperpigmentation, I swear by Azelaic Acid. It's such an underrated ingredient that can also help with acne, redness & inflammation. I've been using it for 3 years! I only got the Naturium Vitamin C serum recently to help boost my SPF & for antioxidant support. It also helps to brighten my skin, however, I don't rely on it for hyperpigmentation as I have Azelaic Acid for that.

u/KaraBoo723Positive

Timeless.

I know LabMuffin says that dropper bottles are fine, she seemed to be talking about time in shipment/storage before being purchased, not after purchase when they're opened every day. I think dropper bottles still let too much air in, so…

I'd go with an airless pump to ensure longevity of the product. (keeping in a refrigerator is a good idea too)

Another good one that wasn't on your list is the Naturium Vit C Complex Serum. That formula contains gold which also helps stabilize the ascorbic acid at a pH that's closer to skin pH.

u/basicbestiePositive

I absolutely second the Naturium! You can even get a travel size one first. I feel like it really helped with moisturizing my skin and some fine lines ymmv but it’s so affordable

u/laurgabelorgaPositive

I like the Naturium one! It really makes a difference in my skin and is generally stable enough to finish the bottle before it's orange.

u/nymph2812Positive

I really love the Naturium Vit c complex serum. All the other Vit c serums I’ve tried irritate my skin (and some smell so bad )

r/AusSkincare

u/killertofu426Positive

I’ve been using the Naturium Vitamin C (after using The Ordinary one you reference) and I really like it. Highly recommend.

r/beauty

Educated Mess

Golden Hour Vitamin C Serum

100% positive

6 Reddit mentions · from 6 users

Our take: Skincare enthusiasts on Reddit favor the Educated Mess Golden Hour Vitamin C Serum, praising its ability to brighten and even out their complexion. Users report that this serum effectively addresses concerns like dullness and uneven skin tone, leaving their skin with a radiant, glowing appearance.

What people are saying

u/KaraBoo723Positive

There is no one best, it depends on your skin type (sensitive or not) and then from there, formula.

If you don't have sensitive skin, I would say the "best" is Educated Mess Golden Hour. It uses pure Ascorbic Acid, but the molecules are protected in…

the formula because they're surrounded by gold particles. The gold even helps your skin absorb it better. To understand why this matters, do an internet search for "ascorbic acid stability in skin care products."

If you do have sensitive skin, then you'd want a derivative type of Vitamin C. Getting a product with a higher percent is better in this case because the derivatives need to convert to ascorbic acid in your skin and it doesn't convert at 100%. I am a sensitive skin person and from the ones I've tried, the ones that I think are best are Paula's Choice 25% Vitamin C + Glutathione Serum and the Peter Thomas Roth Potent-C Power Serum. The Paula's one has 2 types of vitamin C derivatives, each with their own benefits. The PTR version contains ginger root extract (Zingiber Officinale), which can help your skin absorb the Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (version of Vit. C) better.

u/KrindybluthPositive

I’ve been using Educated Mess Golden Hour for a couple of weeks and I like it so far; I feel like my skin is more glow-y (although I started it around the same time as SK-II so hard to tell), but most importantly for me, it doesn’t irritate my skin,…

which other vitamin c serums usually do

u/Special-Bid6373Positive

It’s pricey, but Educated Mess Golden Hour is fabulous. It’s the only Ascorbic acid serum I’ve ever been able to use, and I can even use it on the sensitive skin around my eyes.

u/MixRight371Positive

I’ve tried so many and the only one my skin liked is Educated Mess Golden Hour

u/Specific-Mirror-611Positive

I will only ever use Educated Mess Golden Hour. It’s just amazing.

u/orange208Positive

Educated Mess Golden Hour, my skin loves this stuff.

Sunday Riley CEO

Serum

100% positive

5 Reddit mentions · from 5 users

Our take: Reddit users appreciate the Sunday Riley CEO Serum, a 15% vitamin C formula that helps improve the appearance of skin. Users report that this serum leaves their skin looking brighter and more radiant, and they're pleased with the overall benefits it provides.

What people are saying

u/Sunny4611Positive

I haven't tried either of those serums (my face loves Sunday Riley CEO 15% VitC serum). But your request for THD caught my eye: I've been using Revision Intellishade tinted spf 45 as daily makeup for 10+ years. IMO it's the gold standard for tinted…

spf makeup and has THD.

u/Tashinator0503Positive

Third vote for SR CEO Serum. My husband uses it daily. He really likes the results of even skin tone.

u/cljennaPositive

Here to second that my sensitive, dry, mature skin loves the Sunday Riley vitamin C. It’s lovely.

u/Sunrise_chickPositive

I love SR CEO. One of my favs for Vit C

u/[deleted]Positive

Sunday Riley CEO 15% Vitamij C serum

Minimalist

Vitamin C Serum

83% positive

6 Reddit mentions · from 6 users

Our take: Many Redditors swear by Minimalist's Vitamin C Serums, particularly the 16% and 10%/16% formulations. Users report these serums effectively brighten the skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and even out skin tone.

What people are saying

u/kerodonPositive

If you really want L-Ascorbic acid then geek and gorgeous, prequel, or timeless.

If you want pH stable derivatives then Minimalist 10%/16% vit c

u/CamThrowaway3Positive

Minimalist 16%. Feels and smells like water but great ingredients list. I get through an entire bottle without it oxidising!

u/Khshal_9900Positive

Minimalist is good, also you can eat one aamla or aamla powder daily to fulfill this tol

u/ghunaka98Positive

Minimalist

u/EnchantressXIINegative

Dr. Althea's Vitamin C Boosting Serum is my holy grail and I'm about to buy my third bottle soon! It's lightweight (more watery than syrupy, which I personally like), not sticky at all, doesn't have a strong smell, and I can always see the difference…

on my skin after only a few days of application.

Here are my personal experiences with other brands' vitamin C serums:

* Dear Klairs - too thick and oily on me, but might be good for those with dry skin * COSRX - too potent on my sensitive skin * Minimalist - didn't see any noticeable results * SeoulCeuticals - good but has a strong lingering smell after application

For reference, I have somewhat sensitive combination skin, and am always using some sort of toners or serums with active ingredients. I also only use vitamin C serums in my evening routine, and I always give any new skincare a trial period of 2-3 months before I come to a conclusion. But sometimes, we really just has to try many different products before we find the one that works best for our skin!

COSRX Triple

C Lightning Liquid

83% positive

6 Reddit mentions · from 6 users

Our take: Redditors praise the COSRX Triple C Lightning Liquid for its high concentration of 23% vitamin C, which is said to effectively brighten and even out the skin tone. Many users appreciate the serum's ability to improve the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation, though some note the product has a distinct smell that may not be for everyone.

What people are saying

u/Top_Intern_5337Positive

Here are my mini reviews.

1. Sunday riley - not direct LAA, it's an ester. But absolutely love it for the fact that it is in a moisturiser form & gave me brightening AND glow !

Don't love the price !

2. Timeless - an almost exact dupe for…

Skinceuticals. Has worked wonderfully for me.

3. Truskin - it was the first Vit C I tried. Has a tangy / almost organe smell and not the usual hot dog water smell, but gave me really good results.

4. Melano CC - not a very high % but it's good for everyday use & widely loved by a lot of people. Lasts YEARS ! And the way it's packaged - it doesn't oxidise. So I use it on my arms too.

5. Cosrx 23% - very high % so can be irritating. But if you can tolerate it - it's quite good & does well

u/melisah100Positive

so i’ve tried a lot of vitamin c’s in the past few years, and the one i’ve noticed the most difference is with the cosrx vitamin c 23 serum, they have a 13% too if you wanna try that one out. it does smell like hot dog water just because of the…

vitamin c they used but the smell goes away once put on the skin

u/eightyfive1518Positive

COSRX triple C lightning liquid. It’s my first time using vitamin C and I’m really liking what it’s doing for my hyperpigmentation and overall skin tone.

u/[deleted]Positive

Cosrx vitamin c 23 serum. Hands down. I’ve also heard naturium is good too…but I use cosrx and love it! I would also never purchase skincare off ebay.

u/Any-Weird7648Positive

I like the cosrx one! But I agree with others about the smell

u/espressoromanceNegative

The Cosrx one did nothing for me. I'm currently using Rohto Melano CC but gonna try Numbuzin eventually.

The Ordinary

Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate Solution 20% in Vitamin F

80% positive

5 Reddit mentions · from 5 users

Our take: Redditors recommend The Ordinary Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate Solution 20% in Vitamin F for its powerful vitamin C and fatty acid benefits. Users report that this affordable serum brightens and improves skin's overall appearance, making it a great addition to any skincare routine.

What people are saying

u/miatheguestPositive

Another vote for Melano CC Vitamin C Essence/Concentration Measures Essence (from my understanding it is listed as either depending on the website but they have the exact same packaging with the same words and everything so I figure they are the…

same), it made a really visible difference. It uses both ascorbic acid and ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate (my favourite vit C derivative). But for all my fellow sensitive skin folks that want to avoid fragrance and/or ascorbic acid itself, The Ordinary Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate Solution 20% in Vitamin F as well as the Jumiso All Day Vitamin VC-IP 1.0 Firming Serum both slap. I will note that the active ingredient in The Ordinary's is actually listed as tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate (THD) and not ATIP like the name would suggest. For a long time the two names referred to the same thing internationally but a couple of years ago the ingredient supplier Sytheon issued a correction that they're slightly different chemicals. Cosmetic chemists Lab Muffin Beauty Science and Realize Beauty both have good articles on the differences. Jumiso uses ATIP. I like the texture of the Jumiso more out of those two since I have dry skin, but all three serums work well for lightening hyperpigmentation and giving that glow.

u/PeriodicSlipPositive

yeah I'd try and apply it less often. definitely want to avoid red marks. you don't necessarily need to apply it everyday, it could be a 2-3x a week thing.

also - you might be one of those people who just doesn't tolerate 'true' vit C very well, and…

if it carries on, you might want to explore derivatives (ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate from TO is a good one and well-priced. I personally use both pure l-ascorbic and tetra in my routine but I have super resilient skin).

u/little_canuckPositive

For The Ordinary, I vastly prefer the Vit C in Vit F. It's a serum and absorbs really nicely. No grit, no sting.

r/beauty

u/genric90Positive

The Ordinary Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate Solution 20% in Vitamin F. The only stuff that doesn't irritate my skin.

u/Sparkles-PancakesNeutral

Wasn’t impressed with Timeless. Dr. Bronners which is supposed to be a skinceuticals dupe worked great for me.

Right now I’m trying TO Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate in Vit F due to the November sale and it’s too early to say especially since I’ve…

added a few things to my regimen right now but I will say it doesn’t make my face red like Dr. Bronners did (nothing dramatic just usually caused an initial redness that would go away within 30 minutes).

Maelove Glow

Maker

80% positive

5 Reddit mentions · from 6 users

Our take: Many Redditors swear by Maelove Glow Maker, a skincare product that seems to deliver impressive results. Users praise its ability to brighten their complexion and give their skin a healthy, radiant glow.

What people are saying

u/queen_pickle333Positive

I’m on my 3rd bottle of the Maelove one. Love it. I have sensitive skin and it didn’t irritate me at all. Noticed more even skin tone and lightened my dark spots.

However, I’m switching over to a Korean one just bc I’m in my Korean skincare phase.

u/peppermochaPositive

When I researched a long time ago it seemed Maelove was most similar to the CE Ferulic! I’d go with that one

u/Unfair_Finger5531Positive

Maelove. It’s the simplest, and I found it very effective.

u/newgirl01LAPositive

Maelove. Skinceuticals didn’t do shit for my skin.

u/Adorable-Winter-2968Neutral

Maelove is great. Just that after 2 months of use, it oxidizes, which can be prevented by taking an aliquot out for use and preserving the rest of it

Beauty

of Joseon Retinal Eye Cream

100% positive

4 Reddit mentions · from 4 users

Our take: Redditors love the Beauty of Joseon Retinal Eye Cream for its impressive results. Users rave about the cream's ability to effectively reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles around the delicate eye area.

What people are saying

u/wayfarer110Positive

Thank you for this detailed review!

Can I ask, for how long did you use the BOJ eye cream for before you saw results? I have it but I’ve been using the ksecret one for about 2 months now and I’m not sure if I should switch up or use both

u/Puzzleheaded_Bear26Positive

I have sensitive skin too and had no reaction to the BOJ eye cream. It’s brightened my skin after one month of consistent use, but it didn’t completely get rid of the pigmentation around my eye so I’ll just continue using it.

u/Ali052296Positive

I love the BOJ eye cream as well, I've been using it for 2 months, worked my way up to 3x a week and have noticed a huge improvement in my under eye area. I always had a purple color under my eyes and now it's very slight.

u/Susso7Positive

It’s does help with fine lines. I’m in my mid-50’s and I love the BOJ eye cream. It’s very hydrating. One tube last me over a year too.

Revision

C+ Correcting Complex

100% positive

4 Reddit mentions · from 4 users

Our take: Many Redditors swear by Revision C+ Correcting Complex, a product that promises to correct complex issues with impressive 30% effectiveness. Users rave about the reliability and effectiveness of this product, with multiple positive reviews highlighting its impressive performance.

What people are saying

u/bluemalvaPositive

I have been loving Revision C+ Correcting Complex 30%...my esti recommended it to me recently (her top 2 fave vitamin c serums are ce ferulic and this revision one). I used Skinceuticals ce ferulic and phloretin before this and I just really hate…

the dropper bottle, hate that I see it oxidize even though they say it's still effective...I once accidentally knocked over a brand new bottle and that was the final straw lol. \and yes, I did frantically smear it all over my body from off of my countertop while loudly cursing the bottle lol\ I also like Alastin's vitamin C, but prefer the Revision I think. It gives my skin a really nice glow, layers beautifully with my other products, and seems more hydrating than the others as well. Glytone's c+ advanced antioxidant is also nice if you want a slightly less expensive option than the others I mentioned!

u/bluemalvaPositive

Revision C+ Correcting Complex is my new fave and I’ve tried them all

u/liwuidvaperPositive

Revision 😹

u/Feisty-Operation8583Positive

Revision

Prequel

Vitamin C Serum

100% positive

4 Reddit mentions · from 12 users

Our take: The community loves Prequel Vitamin C Serum. Users rave about its effectiveness, with many simply stating "Prequel" or "Prequel 100%" to express their enthusiasm.

What people are saying

u/smhdg2023Positive

My two favorites are not really lux but they work well. On most days, I use the Prequel vitamin c and like it much better than Skinceuticals. It comes in a better pump bottle. And if my skin is a little sensitive (like after exfoliating), I use the…

Paula’s Choice C with glutathione. It has THD in a very soothing, moisturizing serum with a delicious vanilla scent.

u/SephoraandStarbucksPositive

How have you liked Prequel vs Poems from the Lab?

u/CrimsonFractalPositive

Prequel for me.

u/cdv714Positive

Prequel 100%

Drunk Elephant

C-Firma Day Serum

80% positive

5 Reddit mentions · from 5 users

Our take: Users say the Drunk Elephant C-Firma Day Serum is a standout product. Many report it effectively brightens and evens out their skin tone, leaving it looking more radiant and healthy.

What people are saying

u/happyhappyxPositive

The Niod (same company as The Ordinary) sells a pump that fits this bottle. The pump will slow it down from oxidizing. I heard Drunk Elephant is a dupe. I like mixing only half of the powder and serum to use up first to prevent oxidizing because…

l-ascorbic acid in powder form doesn’t oxidize as quickly.

u/saltyspacesPositive

I’ve used a few different vitamin C serums. Maelove Glow Maker for a while which was okay. For over a year now I’ve been using Drunk Elephant C Firma and I really like it. I don’t love the price of it but it fades dark spots very well so I keep…

repurchasing it.

u/lomona666Positive

That’s why the Timeless serum packaging is good, with the pump. Although I hated the smell and found it a bit sticky if I recall correctly. I really like the Drunk Elephant vit c serum, was disappointed that it wasn’t on this list

u/lovedbymanycatsPositive

Drunk elephant was too similar to the formula so they had to repackage their vitamin C as a powder you mix yourself. It's $ 80.

u/Independent_Boat_546Negative

I haven’t tried the Skinceuticals yet, but might someday.

I’ve tried the Drunk Elephant, Timeless, Cerave, and Maelove. The Drunk Elephant serum is just so sticky, I can’t. The Timeless is good until the bottle starts leaking. Then I get this crusty…

yuk around the rim of the bottle that’s super annoying. The Cerave is good, but Maelove is my winner. The texture is lighter than DE or Timeless. Not sticky and doesn’t leak. I want to try more of their products when I use up some products I already have.

r/beauty

Skinceuticals

C E Ferulic

80% positive

5 Reddit mentions · from 13 users

Our take: Skincare enthusiasts on Reddit favor the Skinceuticals C E Ferulic serum, praising its ability to visibly improve skin's radiance and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Many users highlight the product's potent combination of vitamin C, vitamin E, and ferulic acid, which they claim delivers a powerful antioxidant boost to protect against environmental stressors and signs of aging.

What people are saying

u/girlpersonaPositive

Sadly in my opinion it’s not close :( unless there is a recent 2025 version that I’ve missed.

During the initial ordinary hype I tried both the ordinary vitamin c suspension in the squeezy tube and the ordinary vit c ascorbyl glucoside version in a…

pippette bottle - both fell veryyyy disappointingly flat for me.

One of these has a weird hard unpleasant gritty-feel to it, possibly the cream suspension one? And the grit would not dissolve, like tiny tiny sand.😬Both stung quite a bit (dehydrated, dry skin here tbf, may work better for others) - I heard that the ingredients were meant to be sound, but the formula wasn’t it.

I’ve tried the skinceuticals one, and against my will I did find it good, better than any others I’ve tried (but the smell.. is grim af)- but there’s just no way in hell is it worth $200 at all.😭

u/bethoIogyPositive

I only know what I’ve read on the internet. So take that with a grain of salt. I have used the Skinceuticals one for years though and I did get the Elf one about a month ago and it feels, looks and smells exactly the same.

u/capricornonthecobbPositive

Skinceuticals is absolutely fabulous on my skin but just unaffordable currently lol. I tried using Maelove because its supposed to be a dupe but it hasn't reacted well with my skin.

u/monkeysatemybarfPositive

Skinceuticals. Tried to avoid it for years, but they've got me now.

u/[deleted]Negative

The smell bothers me too. I’ve used the Skinceuticals Vit C and it smells weird on my skin. But I just suffer through it and deal with it. Drunk elephant smells weird too.