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While we write about products day in and day out, sometimes, it’s nice to hear from fresh perspectives. This time around, we did a deep dive into the depths of Reddit to discover which vitamin C serums stand tall above the rest. Long story short, we have some very interesting findings—from the SkinCeuticals serum every celeb uses to a more affordable option that’s gained quite the following on Amazon.
We can see why Reddit users get so wrapped up in the debate in the “Favorite vitamin C serum?” thread because the powerhouse ingredient can truly do it all. It fades dark spots, protects against free radical damage, evens out skin tone and boosts collagen production. With a little help from a quality vitamin C serum, your skin should look so radiant and glowy.
The Reddit comments we came across were so detailed and filled with passion for all things skincare, which we always love to see. And while many comments touted the celeb-loved SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic serum, many shared cheaper alternatives that are just as effective.
Whether it’s The Ordinary and CeraVe or Paula’s Choice and Summer Fridays, below, discover the eight vitamin C serums Reddit users can’t recommend enough.
RELATED: The 6 Most Life-Changing Vitamin C Serums With Hyaluronic Acid—All Under $30 on Amazon
Perhaps the most mentioned vitamin C serum in this thread is Timeless Skin Care’s 20% Vitamin C + E Ferulic Acid Serum. It’s essentially a dupe for the pricey SkinCeuticals fan-fave serum. “I’ve really enjoyed Timeless Vitamin C,” wrote one Reddit user. “Not only does my skin appear brighter, it FEELS softer, which was not something I expected.”
Celebs like Hailey Bieber, Gwyneth Paltrow and Ashley Graham can’t get enough of this $170 serum. You’re likely wondering whether a $170 serum is worth it (same). According to Reddit reviewers, it is. One commented, “SkinCeuticals all the way. I have tried many others, but keep going back to it.” Another said, “SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic is my HG” (HG as in Holy Grail).
“I like the CeraVe vitamin C, it’s very nourishing and moisturizing,” wrote one user. Indeed it is and it’s all thanks to the hyaluronic acid, ceramides and vitamin B5 that are also in the formula.
In addition to vitamin C, this formula contains vitamin E, ferulic acid, konjac root and hyaluronic acid. Sound familiar? Many Amazon shoppers call it a SkinCeuticals dupe, which makes sense considering their near-identical ingredient lists. “I like Mad Hippie vitamin c serum,” one user posted. “It lasts a good few months for me, and doesn’t burn at all.”
“I’ve been loving The Ordinary Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate Solution 20%…my skin’s never looked better,” wrote one Reddit dweller. Say no more! This serum is unique in that it also incorporates vitamin F, essential fatty acids, and ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate, a derivative of vitamin C. Brighter, youthful-looking skin is headed your way.
If you like what you heard about the Mad Hippie, Timeless Skin Care and SkinCeuticals serums, then you’ll want to also consider the C15 Super Boost by Paula’s Choice. Like its counterparts, it calls on vitamin C, vitamin E, ferulic acid and hyaluronic acid. Use it alone or mix it with your serum or moisturizer.
“Paulas Choice Vitamin C Boost! So good.” wrote one Reddit user. “A little pricey, but really works on my skin. My skin has never looked so even-colored.”
Get rid of those pesky dark spots and hyperpigmentation with Summer Fridays’ vitamin C serum. Ascorbic acid, ascorbyl glucoside (a more gentle version of vitamin C), squalane and niacinamide work all of their magic on your complexion, giving you the bright, youthful and hydrated skin you deserve.
It’s the perfect serum for those who want a gentler formula. “I have really sensitive skin and I use Summer Fridays’ Vitamin C serum! I love it,” wrote one user.
This wonderful concoction of vitamin C, acerola cherry and hyaluronic acid is here to add radiance to your complexion and also hydrate it. Plus, the formula combats visible signs of aging, like fine lines and wrinkles.
“I have really sensitive skin and the only product that hasn’t burned my cheeks has been the Farmacy vitamin C cherry serum with HA!” one person commented. “It is definitely pricey, but it’s lovely and has been helping rid my acne scars and texture while providing extra hydration!”
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