Vitamin C Serums

Reddit Rankings (by upvotes)

268 discussions analyzed

Reddit Analysis

Editorial Summary: Vitamin C serums range from high‑potency L‑ascorbic acid formulas (SkinCeuticals-style) to gentler derivatives (Medik8, Vanicream). Popular options include Skinceuticals (gold standard/stable formula), Geek & Gorgeous and Dr. Brenner’s (budget fresh batches) and Melano CC (Japanese cult favorite). Redditors recommend going for pump packaging to reduce oxidation and using Vitamin C in the morning for antioxidant benefits, especially under sunscreen.

Recommendations:

Sensitive or reactive skin: choose gentler derivatives such as Vanicream Vitamin C, Medik8 THD formulations, or lower‑% magnesium ascorbyl phosphate products.
Oily or acne‑prone skin: lightweight, water‑based LAA serums with fast absorption — Geek & Gorgeous C‑Glow, Maelove Glow Maker, or COSRX Triple C (patch test first).
Budget‑minded shoppers: try Geek & Gorgeous, Dr. Brenner’s or Maelove for solid results without the luxury price tag.
Targeting stubborn hyperpigmentation: consider proven LAA + ferulic combos (SkinCeuticals or Timeless 15–20% C + E + ferulic); combine with sunscreen and patience.
Prefer low‑irritation/daily use: pick THD/derivative formulas (Medik8, Vanicream, Numbuzin) for antioxidant benefit with less risk of inflammation.
Want stable packaging/longer shelf life: look for airless pumps or opaque tubes (Melano CC, some Timeless and newer pump formats, many Medik8 options).

Dr Brenner's Vitamin CE Ferulic Serum

🟢 36 positive reviews
🟡 3 neutral reviews
🔴 4 negative reviews

Geek & Gorgeous 101 C-Glow

🟢 62 positive reviews
🟡 36 neutral reviews
🔴 14 negative reviews

Sunday Riley C.E.O. 15% Vitamin C Brightening Serum

🟢 83 positive reviews
🟡 39 neutral reviews
🔴 30 negative reviews

Melano CC Serum

🟢 87 positive reviews
🟡 13 neutral reviews
🔴 37 negative reviews

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Serum

🟢 108 positive reviews
🟡 28 neutral reviews
🔴 53 negative reviews

Timeless Skin Care 20% Vitamin C E Ferulic Acid Serum

🟢 64 positive reviews
🟡 9 neutral reviews
🔴 39 negative reviews

MAELOVE Glow Maker Vitamin C Serum

🟢 27 positive reviews
🟡 15 neutral reviews
🔴 20 negative reviews

Vanicream Vitamin C Serum

🟢 56 positive reviews
🟡 43 neutral reviews
🔴 42 negative reviews

La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C12 Serum

🟢 23 positive reviews
🟡 7 neutral reviews
🔴 14 negative reviews

Medik8 Super C Ferulic

🟢 18 positive reviews
🟡 7 neutral reviews
🔴 19 negative reviews

Asked by Redditors

How does Vitamin C serum help my skin?

Vitamin C (L‑ascorbic acid or derivatives) brightens tone, reduces early hyperpigmentation, and provides antioxidant protection. Formulation (concentration, pH, stabilizers like ferulic acid and vitamin E) determines how effective it is.

Which form is best — L‑ascorbic acid or derivatives?

L‑ascorbic acid (LAA) has the most clinical data at effective concentrations (10–20%) but can irritate sensitive skin and oxidize. Derivatives (THD, ethyl ascorbic, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate) are gentler and more stable but may act slower.

Why does Vitamin C go brown or smell odd?

Discoloration and metallic/"hot dog" odors are signs of oxidation or age. Store bottles away from light/air (ideally in opaque or airless packaging or refrigerated) and discard if color or smell changes dramatically.

Do I need the expensive formulas?

High‑end formulas can be effective and stable, but many mid‑range and budget options (Timeless, Maelove, Geek & Gorgeous, Dr. Brenner’s, Medik8 variants) give comparable results for many users. Effect varies by skin biology and formulation.

Can I use Vitamin C with other actives (retinol, acids)?

Yes, but introduce one active at a time. Many people use Vitamin C in the morning (antioxidant + SPF) and retinoids at night; if you’re reactive, start every-other-day and patch test.

How long until I see results?

Expect gradual changes: glow and evenness in weeks, noticeable fading of PIH in 8–12+ weeks. Consistency and sun protection determine outcomes.

Application Tips by Redditors:

Apply Vitamin C in the morning to clean, fully dry skin; wait 5–10 minutes before layering moisturizer and always finish with broad‑spectrum sunscreen.
Start slow: patch test and introduce 2–3x/week then build to daily use to avoid irritation; reduce frequency if you develop redness or persistent inflammation.
Protect and monitor product: store in a cool, dark place or fridge if recommended, prefer airless/pump packaging, and discard if the serum turns dark brown or has a metallic/rotten smell.