Vitamin C Serum With Ferulic Acid

Best Clean: Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum

• Ferulic acid and vitamin E boost vitamin Cs efficacy and stability

• Non-irritating formula contains chamomile extract

• Petrochemical-, paraben-, fragrance-, and phthalate-free

• Slightly sticky

Our home tester gave the Mad Hippie serum a 4.5 out of 5 rating, noting that the formula was fast-absorbing and boosted radiance without irritation. Ferulic supports the efficacy of vitamin C while and hyaluronic acid, konjac root powder, vitamin E, and chamomile extract deliver hydrating properties.

Benefits: Tightening, radiance-boosting, smoothing | Skin Type: All | Dosage: A few drops twice daily | Size: 1 ounce | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Yes

Price at time of publish: $34

What Our Testers Say

“Along with lightening dark spots, it helped my skin look more even overall, and its ingredients have long-term anti-aging benefits, too.”Joline Buscemi, Product Tester and Editor

What Were Looking For

Formulation: All of our experts agree: Formulation is paramount to vitamin Cs stability. The more stable, the better, because you reap all of the glow-inducing benefits. A product must be formulated carefully to enable sufficient delivery to the skin, Dr. Kenneth Howe of the Wexler Dermatology Group explains. As for how much vitamin C should be in a given formulation, Lal recommends at least 10 percent. Less than that and you dont get the full benefit of the product, and over 20 percent, you dont get any additional benefits and are more likely to experience irritation. However, this doesnt really mean much when it comes to derivatives because, according to Lal, once the derivatives hit the skin, a 10 percent concentration is much closer to 3 or 4 percent.

Packaging: Your vitamin C should come in a dark or opaque bottle. This helps prevent oxidation, which happens when it is exposed to sunlight or isnt kept in an airtight bottle. It will be obvious that this is happening because the formula will darken in color. To prevent this, our experts recommend keeping it away from sunlight and storing it somewhere dark, along with closing the bottle tightly.

Best Natural: Instanatural Vitamin C Serum

• Ferulic acid and vitamin E boost vitamin Cs efficacy and stability

• Licorice root extract and argan oil brighten and hydrate

• Strong smell

InstaNatural’s wallet-friendly Vitamin C Serum flaunts an all-natural formula with hyaluronic acid, sea buckthorn oil, ferulic acid, and plant stem cells. In addition, radiance-boosting licorice root extract, argan oil, and cica deliver collagen boosting properties that help to repair cellular damage.

Benefits: Hydrating, radiance-boosting, reparative, rejuvenating | Skin Type: All | Dosage: Dime-sized amount twice daily | Size: 1 ounce | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Yes

Price at time of publish: $18

Also Check: Can Retinol Be Used With Vitamin C

How To Apply Vitamin C Serum

First, youll want to test the product to make sure your skin doesnt react negatively to it. Heres the three step process:

Once you are ready to apply, check the product label for detailed instructions. Typically, you will apply twice a day after cleansing and toning, then put moisturizer over the vitamin C serum.

Vitamin C Concentrated Serum 2 Fl Oz

Prices and availability are subject to change without notice. Offers are specific to store listed above and limited to in-store. Promotions, discounts, and offers available in stores may not be available for online orders. The information provided on this website, including special diets and nutritional information, is for reference purposes and not intended as medical or healthcare information or advice. Actual product packaging and materials may contain more and/or different information than shown on our website. You should not rely solely on the information presented here and you should always read labels, warnings, and directions before using or consuming a product. The information provided on this website should not be relied upon to make health-related decisions.

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Not All Vitamin C Serums Are Created Equal

Whether youve been looking to simplify your skin care routine or amp it up, a vitamin C serum might be your golden ticket. Topical vitamin C is a multipurpose workhorse that can protect, repair, and enhance your skin.

But, as with any products, not all serums are created equal. Components like the type and concentration of vitamin C, the ingredient list, and even the kind of bottle or dispenser make or break your serums benefits and your skin.

But dont worry, decoding which serum to buy isnt that hard. Weve got the facts on C serum benefits, how to choose one , and tips on how to make the most use of them.

Vitamin C is an antioxidant, meaning it halts or holds off environmental and sun damage to cells. And while you can count your morning OJ as a good defense for your bod, the best way to achieve vitamin Cs protection and benefits is to apply it directly onto your skin.

But theres also a reason why you dont want to just be placing citrus slices on your cheeks. When you DIY, theres no control over the quality and sometimes its not even safe. Its also just not efficient.

Thats because when we eat, drink, or supplement vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, our skin only gets a of the benefits. However, pressing vitamin C in serum form, after its been chemically altered, actually lets our skin absorb more of it in an efficient way.

Best Splurge: Skinceuticals C E Ferulic

• Ferulic acid and vitamin E boost vitamin Cs efficacy and stability

• Antioxidant blend further attacks free radical damage

• Hyaluronic acid helps plump and hydrate

Our home tester rated SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic a 4.8 out of 5 stars for its velvety skin-feel and antioxidant-rich formula. Madfes says this product is worth the splurge and delivers a noticeable improvement in the texture, evenness, and elasticity of skin.

Benefits: Hydrating, smoothing, radiance-boosting | Skin Type: Dry, balanced, sensitive, mature | Dosage: A few drops daily | Size: 1 ounces | Cruelty-Free: No | No

Price at time of publish: $169

What Our Editors Say

“If I had to pick one skincare product to rave about, this is the one. The combination of ferulic acid and vitamin C and E works to protect against environmental damage caused by free radicals, improves signs of aging and photodamage, reduces the appearance of lines and wrinkles, and brightens my complexion each time I use it. It’s a thin, watery serum, and it doesn’t smell greatbut it works better than any vitamin C product I’ve ever used. Over the years, I’ve noticed an immediate and long-term result.” Hallie Gould, Editorial Director

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What Can Vitamin C Do For Your Skin

In skin care, a great vitamin C tip is that it can do a few really helpful things if you know its use. First, vitamin C can actually inhibit the production of melanin, the pigment in the skin, which makes it a crucial ingredient for managing hyperpigmentation and generally evening out skin tone.

Second, vitamin C acts as an antioxidant, which means it can help neutralize free radicals. These are unstable atoms that form as a result of exposure to environmental stressors like UV rays and pollution. Over time, free radicals can cause oxidative stress, which can harm the skin and cause premature signs of aging. Using sunscreen daily along with a potent antioxidant like vitamin C is the best way to protect yourself from damage due to free radicals.

% Vitamin C + E + Ferulic Acid Serum

Regular price

• Ingredients

• How to Layer

Dull skin has met its match with this high-powered antioxidant serum that combines a stable form of 15% pure vitamin C, 0.5% ferulic acid, and vitamin E to fight signs of aging and provide environmental protection. This potent vitamin C serum helps improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots. Say hello to your brightest skin yet.Recommended for:

*Compare to SkinCeuticals C E FerulicCustom formulated in New Jersey, USA.

15% L-ascorbic acid: The best of the best in the world of vitamin C. This potent, pure form of vitamin C provides age fighting benefits and helps neutralize free radicals.Tocopheryl acetate: This vitamin E acetate steps in to soothe inflammation and provide extra moisture.0.5% Ferulic acid: Ferulic acid teams up with vitamins C and E to boost benefits and stability.

Water, Ethoxydiglycol, Propanediol, Ascorbic Acid, Glycerin, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Ferulic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Tocopheryl Acetate, Pentylene Glycol, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Malonic Acid, Vanillin.

Apply 4-5 drops to clean skin and massage onto face, neck and chest area in upwards motions. Dont forget to follow with your fav SPF for extra antioxidant protection!For best results, store your serum in a cool, dark place.Avoid pairing with:– Retinol- AHA’s- BHA’s

Read Also: When And How To Take Vitamin D

Best Drugstore: Cerave Skin Renewing Vitamin C Serum

• Contains hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides to plump skin and strengthen skin barrier

• Non-comedogenic formula

• Can oxidize and leave orange streaks

You can squeeze product out of this CeraVe tube of vitamin C serum. In addition to 10 percent L-ascorbic acid, this affordable formula replenishes the skin barrier with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides and soothes stressed skin with vitamin B5.

Benefits: Radiance-boosting, hydrating, replenishing | Skin Type: All | Dosage: Thin layer daily | Size: 1 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Yes

Price at time of publish: $21

What About Powder To Diy My Own Vitamin C Benefits

Got too many skin potions already? You can add a daily pinch of vitamin C powder to an existing serum or moisturizer in your routine.

You may have seen some skin care lines touting C powders, like Philosophys turbo booster version, which is nearly 100 percent ascorbic acid. Or you can snag a food-grade supplement powder, like NutriBiotic, at your favorite vitamin retailer for a fraction of the cost.

Keep in mind that the combo of vitamin C with other specific ingredients, like vitamin E and ferulic acid, are what help stabilize it and allow your skin to absorb it.

So, playing chemist in your bathroom with your own array of products may not produce the same results as buying a pre-crafted serum. However, if youre a diehard DIY-er, you can use a powder to make your own affordable and serum with all the necessary ingredients.

Whatever brand or form you buy, the bottom line is that vitamin C is one of the best tried-and-true ingredients for your skin with lots of research to back it up. You dont need a fancy version to reap vitamin Cs skin-saving rewards.

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The Best Vitamin C Serums

When it comes to high-quality vitamin C serums, there are a few classic go-to products that dermatologists recommend over and over again because theyre proven to work. But theyre also often expensive, and there are cheaper alternatives out there. Check out your options before you splurge and think about whats really important to you in a vitamin C product.

And remember that how you use the product is just as important as the product itself. Using a vitamin C serum consistently and storing it well to preserve its potency can result in noticeable skin improvementsbut not overnight. Even the best products may take weeks to months to have an effect.

Below, check out a few of the best vitamin C serums out there, from retailers like Dermstore, , Ulta, Amazon, and more.

All products featured on SELF are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Mdara Vitamin C Intense Glow Concentrate

This cheerful serum harnesses the antioxidant properties of vitamins C, E, and ferulic acid to create a brightening, glow-boosting effect.

With 99% ingredients of natural origin, this serum is your natural ally against sun and environmental damage: not only does it help prevent fine lines, dark spots, it also supports collagen synthesis in order to maintain skin elasticity and firmness.

Also Check: What Vitamins Should A 35 Year Old Take

Best For Uneven Skin Tone: Maelove The Glow Maker

• Ferulic acid and vitamin E boost vitamin Cs efficacy and stability

• Hyaluronic acid plumps and hydrates

• Non-sticky formula

• Can oxidize

This Maelove serum includes a powerful blend of antioxidants and ferulic acid to even out skin tone and boost radiance. The ingredients and results of this serum are comparable to those of the Drunk Elephant and SkinCeuticals vitamin C serums, but at a fraction of the price.

Benefits: Hydrating, radiance-boosting, tone-evening, calming | Skin Type: All | Dosage: A few drops once or twice daily | Size: 1 ounce | Cruelty-Free: Yes | No

Price at time of publish: $30

Endocare Radiance C Ferulic Edafence Serum

Velvety and non-oily, this serum protects the skin from damage caused by environmental stressors. This includes not only free radicals, but also urban contaminants such as ozone and blue light. With vitamins C, E, and ferulic acid, this formula offers a lightening, antioxidant, anti-aging, and anti-pollution action that can benefit all skin types.

In addition to this trio of ingredients, this serum also includes two exclusive technologies. The first, EDAFENCE®, is an innovative anti-pollution technology the second, SCA® Biorepair Technology, is a natural activator of skin regeneration. Together, these technologies help reduce the signs of skin aging and photoaging, thus contributing to the overall effectiveness of the serum.

Also Check: What Vitamins Do You Need When Pregnant

Best For Mature Skin: Truskin Naturals Vitamin C Serum

• Hyaluronic acid and jojoba oil deliver intense moisture and hydrate mature skin

• High concentration of vitamin C

• Some reviewers note a light tightening feeling after application

This best-selling serum from TruSkin is formulated specifically for mature complexions, with a high concentration of active ingredients. It blends vitamins C and E with hyaluronic acid and jojoba oil to combat dullness, address discoloration, and restore firmness. The product is frequently discounted, making it Amazons best-selling face serum.

Benefits: Hydrating, firming, plumping, smoothing | Skin Type: All | Dosage: A few drops daily | Size: 1 ounce | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Yes

Price at time of publish: $20

What Are The Best Vitamin C Serums With Vitamin E And Ferulic Acid

What are the best vitamin C serums?

Vitamin C is an antiaging superstar that fights wrinkles, boosts collagen and brightens the complexion when used right.

Like all divas, vitamin C is finicky AF. If the pH is too high, it wont work. If the pH is too low, it will irritate skin. If its used alone or is housed in a see-through packaging, itll go bad quickly

No wonder most brands dont bother using it or worse, put just a drop of vitamin C in their lotions and potions to trick you into thinking youre using an antiaging serum and then you wonder why it doesnt work!

So what makes a good vitamin C serum?

My criteria:

• High doses of vitamin C: Its true 3% vitamin C works too but unless your skin is that sensitive, why not go higher?
• Effective pH: It must allow vitamin C to penetrate skin without drying it out.
• Protective packaging: Opaque tubes and bottles that protect vitamin C from oxidation .
• Support system: Thats vitamin E and ferulic acid, two antioxidants that have been shown time and time again to make vitamin C last longer, be more effective, and boost photo protection.

Instead, I dont care about price. Sure, I love a good bargain like everyone else, but vitamin C is one of the few skincare products Im willing to pay more for.

In my book, somethings worth it if it works and vitamin C works, ya know what I mean? But if youre on a budget, fret not. There are good vitamin C serums that dont break the bank out there. Phew!

Also Check: What Vitamins Can Help With Ed

Why Ferulic Acid For Skin Amplifies Vitamin C Serum Effects

A skin care ingredient that you may have overlooked is ferulic acid, which is a plant-based ingredient from foods such as ones like rice, oats, apple seeds, and peanuts. The reason you may want to give it more thought is due to its amazing natural antioxidants that can handle a variety of skin care issues if ferulic acid is present. Incorporating this phytochemical, especially in a vitamin C serum benefits your complexion in more ways than just one.

To begin with, this particular acid can help intensify anti-aging efforts because those potent antioxidants can better protect the integrity of the skin. Though it doesnt actually repair skin damage, it helps the vitamin C or other star of the formula such as vitamin E, resveratrol or niacinamide by strengthening that line of defense from future free radicals and offsets the harm of the surrounding area where the damage occurred. As a result, the vitamin C stands a greater chance of its own antioxidants concentrating on repair work, brightening and utilizing its proteins for replenishing depleted collagen.

The rationale behind how ferulic acid revs up that brightening effect in such a vitamin C or niacinamide serum is because it manages to prevent melanin from darkening. Regardless if the form of ferulic acid is even manufactured in a lab to replicate the plants makeup, this helps to achieve more radiance and lightening the skin because it stops the release of that offending enzyme of tyrosinase that causes it.