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These Vitamin C Products Are the Secret to Glowy Skin
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If you’re new to the world of vitamin C skincare, welcome. You’re going to like it here. If you’re simply looking to switch up your vitamin C products, we also have something for you. We’re big fans of vitamin C as this potent antioxidant helps to visibly reduce signs of ageing while also helping increase the glow factor in your complexion.
For those looking to increase skin firmness, this antioxidant is also a winner in that department. When looking for vitamin C products, opt for products that are formulated with pure L-Ascorbic Acid (as it’s super potent and effective) and make sure the packaging is tight which ensures the product won’t oxidise. When it comes to usage, think of vitamin C as something used in conjunction with your coffee — best consumed first thing in the morning.
Vitamin C products should be used just before sunscreen and make sure to prioritise sunscreen use while using vitamin C, as this ingredient can increase your sensitivity to the sun. While there are a number of vitamin C products on the market, these are our favourites.
Garnier, Vitamin C Brighening Serum
Tried vitamin C and found it broke you out, or left your skin red and irritated? The new Garnier, Vitamin C Brightening Serum ($18) clever serum combines 3.5% Vitamin Cg a smart synthetic vitamin C called ascorbyl glucoside.
Vitamin Cg is perfect for sensitive skin types looking to reap the brightening benefits of vitamin C without the potential irritation. This formula also contains niacinamide, a soothing antioxidant that inhibits the production of melanin, and salicylic acid, an acne-busting, oil-controlling active.
Consider this an affordable win for acne-prone, sensitive skin types.
Synergie Skin Effica C Vitamin C Serum
Sensitive skin and vitamin C don’t always mix. Enter: Synergie Skin’s Effica C Vitamin C Serum ($125). Formulated for all skin types, Effica C is a godsend for those with sensitive skin with its gentle non-acidic biocompatible formula that still delivers the potent results you’re after. It contains 10% ATIP vitamin C, lycopene, and coenzyme Q10: three ingredients that work together to give your skin a supercharged dose of antioxidants. This quick-absorbing formula reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, brightens skin, fades the look of pigmentation, and protects against UV and environmental damage.
Want to try it for yourself? Add the code POPSUGAR to your Synergie Skin order at checkout for 10% off until December 1, 2022 (T&Cs apply).
Skin Physics Vitamin C Brightening Serum
Formulated with vitamin C and niacinamide, the Skin Physics Vitamin C Brightening Serum ($19.95) is designed to protect the skin against UV damage while also evening out skin tone. This beauty leaves skin looking radiant, and also targets signs of ageing, blemishes and enlarged pores. And, at less than $20, it’s seriously budget-friendly so you don’t have to break the bank to achieve glowy skin.
La Roche-Posay Redermic Vitamin C10 Serum
With 10 percent pure vitamin C, La Roche-Posay’s La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C Serum ($69.99) leaves skin feeling softer, more hydrating and much more glowy. In fact, research shows 89 percent of users experienced more radiant skin tone while 71 percent found fine lines to be reduced.
Mecca Cosmetica Skin Brightening Vitamin C Serum
Mecca Cosmetica, Skin Brightening Vitamin C Serum is formulated with 15% L-ascorbic acid, making it a great choice from the get-go. This percentage of pure vitamin C means this serum protects against free radical damage, while also evening out skin tone.
Dr. Barbara Sturm The Good C
Dr. Barbara Sturm’s The Good C ($220) is formulated with a potent cocktail of vitamin C is three forms and concentrations. This milky-coloured serum works to improve skin tone, stimulate collagen and protect your skin against free radicals and UV stress. While the price tag is pretty hefty, this one is definitely worth the money as it leaves your skin looking glowy and bright.
Laneige Radian-C Cream
A nice change from a vitamin C serum, Laneige’s Radian-C Cream ($48) is a gentle moisturiser which can be used every day to reap the brightening benefits. This cream helps reduce dullness, dial up radiance and increase the hydration levels in your skin, while also being hypoallergenic and great for those with sensitive skin. Use as you would a serum, applying just before your SPF in the morning.
Tatcha Violet C Brightening Serum
Tatcha’s Violet C Brightening Serum ($134) serum contains 20 percent vitamin C and 10 percent mild fruit AHAs to both boost moisture and remove debris and dead skin cells. “Ideal for those with pigmentation and acne scarring, Tatcha’s Violet C Brightening Serum is made with Japanese Angelica Root, used in traditional Asian medicine and known its restorative properties,” Sydney facialist and skin therapist, Melissa Young, told The Latch.
The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%
Formulated with 23 percent pure L-ascorbic acid, The Ordinary’s Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2% ($10) provides an extremely high concentration of vitamin C that is non-irritating to the skin. You might feel a strong tingling sensation during the first one to two weeks of using this product as your skin adjusts to the high exposure of topical vitamin C.
Drunk Elephant C-Firma Day Serum
Drunk Elephant’s C-Firma Day Serum ($122) is great for all of your hydrating, brightening and firming needs. The formula feels comfortable on your skin and it doesn’t smell too much like meat (which is a common complaint!). This product also smooths your skin tone, while working to minimise the look of pores and get rid of dead skin cells.