Last updated on 5 February, 2024
I have not used many Vitamin C serums in my skincare routine because whichever I have tried till now have suited me perfectly. I started using Vitamin C serum some 4 years back when Vya Naturals sent me the serum in PR. Today I will help you in choosing the Best Vitamin C Serum in India.
Vitamin C serums are one of the most sought after skincare products. Vitamin C as an ingredient can be found in literally all skincare products right from face washes to body washes. It is a star ingredient owing to its antioxidant, brightening and collagen production stimulating properties. Moreover, it can significantly reduce pigmentation, fine lines and acne marks.
Inculcating a Vitamin C serum in the skincare routine is easy. Just apply, wait for 2-3 minutes before using your normal moisturizer.
Before we proceed please remember that Vitamin C is an exfoliating active ingredient, just like glycolic acid. So take due care about regularly using an SPF while using any Vitamin C product.
Best Vitamin C Serum in India
- Deconstruct Vitamin C Serum
- Plum 15% Mandarin & Vitamin C Serum Glow Boost
- Foxtale Vitamin C Serum
- Vya Naturals 20% Vitamin C Face Serum
- Derma Co 20% Vitamin C Serum
- Juicy Chemistry Vitamin C Brightening Serum
- Koko Chemistry Vitamin C Serum
- Ponds Vitamin C Serum
Deconstruct Vitamin C Serum
This is one of the Best Vitamin C serum for face in India. It is an optimum solution of 10% Vitamin C (3-o-ethyl ascorbic acid) & 0.5% Ferulic Acid, a powerful combination that works to prevent sun damage and boost skin glow. It has anti-inflammatory properties that clear pigmentation and are essential for collagen biosynthesis. The choice of 3-o-ethyl ascorbic acid of the derivative & the optimum concentration makes it perfect for beginners to be included in their morning skincare routine. The serum is highly effective and at the same time gentle on the skin. You may notice a slightly yellow tinge due to the addition of antioxidants like Ferulic acid & Dictyopteris Membranacea. This is my personal favourite amongst the Best Vitamin C Serum in India.
Pros
- Formulated with 10 % Vitamin C (3-o-ethyl ascorbic acid) that inhibits tyrosinase activity to provide a brightening effect
- 0.5 % Ferulic acid acts as a potent antioxidant, what prevents sun damage by suppressing the production of free radicals
- Contains multiple anti-oxidants, including Ferulic acid & Dictyopteris Membranacea
- Additionally contains Hyaluronic acid that ensures the skin does not dry out after application
- Optimum concentration makes it perfect for beginners
- Vegan, cruelty-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free, silicone-free product
- Serum is free from colours, fragrances or essential oils
Cons
- None
Plum 15% Mandarin & Vitamin C Serum Glow Boost
Plum Vitamin C Serum is a perfect concoction for boosting the glow of the skin. It is made with 15% Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, a stable & quick absorbing Vitamin C. The product will definitely suit beginners as it doesn’t irritate even when you use it daily at night. Ethoxydiglycol & Propanediol boost the penetration of Vitamin C into the skin whereas betaine hydrates and rose extracts soothe the skin. I would recommend this as a Best Vitamin C Serum in India for people who tolerate vitamin C well.
Pros
- Formulated with 15% Ethyl Ascorbic Acid a stable & quick absorbing Vitamin C
- Contains Japanese Mandarin along with Kakadu Plum
- Boosts collagen production in skin while giving a glow to the skin
- Definitely a beginner friendly product
- Reduces whiteheads really well
- Contains special ingredients for boosting penetration of Vitamin C into skin
- Betaine and Rose Extracts are added for hydration and soothing skin respectively
- Product is free from artificial colours, fragrances or essential oils
- 100% vegan, paraben-free, phthalate-free
Cons
- Cannot be used daily
Foxtale Vitamin C Serum
I would say Foxtale Vitamin C Serum is one of the most affordable options of vitamin C serum available in India. It brightens up the skin, exfoliates the whiteheads up to a certain extent and considerably reduces acne marks. The texture is good for layering up your skincare products. Moreover, the product is affordable and can be availed on discount and the brand makes it even easier to test it out before purchasing by making it available in 15ml packs. I didn’t have any high expectations from the serum and it has definitely been a satisfactory vitamin C serum.
Pros
- Formulated with 15% L-Ascorbic Acid a pure form of Vitamin C
- Cream based Vitamin C serum that is easily absorbed by the skin
- Additionally contains Vitamin E (Tocopherol) and Dicaprylyl Carbonate that acts as antioxidant and excellent emollient respectively
- Can be used in layering skincare products
- Suitable for all skin types except sensitive skin
- Affordable price for a good vitamin C serum
- Helps lighten the acne marks and makes skin even toned
- Compact packaging that is super travel friendly
Cons
- Cannot be used daily
- Could have been made with a stable form of Vitamin C
- Not a beginner friendly Vitamin C percentage
Vya Naturals 20% Vitamin C Face Serum
Vya Naturals Vitamin C Serum was my first ever vitamin C serum that not only reduces pigmentation but also gives a real luminous look to the skin. When I first applied the serum it did give me a mild tingling sensation that settled within a few seconds. The quantity offered is very considerable as compared to the price you pay for this serum. Although being said that 20% concentration may seem a bit high for sensitive skinned beauties or for beginners. You can go in for a lesser concentration formula which we have mentioned in the list below.
Pros
- Formulated with highly stable active- Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
- Water based serum suitable for all skin types
- Helps lighten the acne scars, acne marks and pigmentation
- Additionally contains Aloe Vera, Witch Hazel extracts, Glycerin and Hyaluronic Acid
- Makes the skin even toned
- Gets absorbed quickly and can be used beneath a moisturiser and SPF
- Compact packaging although not travel friendly
- Free from parabens, harmful chemicals, artificial color and fragrance
Cons
- Not a beginner friendly Vitamin C serum due to 20% concentration
Derma Co 20% Vitamin C Serum
The Derma Co vitamin C serum is formulated with 20% vitamin C. It not only makes the skin radiant and glowing as claimed, but also improves the skin’s texture and gives a healthy appearance when used regularly. I have been using it for two weeks and it helps to reduce the dullness of the skin while helping to fade away dark spots. As much as I like this product I don’t like the fact that a brand like Derma Co can’t manufacture this product in a dark coloured glass bottle. This product has higher chances of getting oxidised due to the packaging. One must keep the product away from sunlight and use it as soon as you open it. Derma Co has two vitamin C serums one with 20% concentration and other one with 10% concentration
Pros
- Vitamin C in 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid form with 20% concentration
- Has an instant brightening effect and makes the skin radiant
- Contains Ferulic acid that neutralizes free radicals, enhances antioxidant benefits, and stability of Vitamin C
- Also contains Hyaluronic Acid that helps retains moisture in the skin
- Available in two concentrations 10% Vitamin C and 20% Vitamin C that makes it easy to use according to the preference
- Shows considerable amount of effects in brightening and reducing dullness
Cons
- 20% concentration may not be feasible to use everyday
- Packaging could have been in dark coloured glass bottle
Juicy Chemistry Vitamin C Brightening Serum
If you are looking for an organic Vitamin C serum then it has to be the Juicy Chemistry one. This naturally activated serum protects the skin against photo-damage and boosts collagen synthesis. It is rich in Ascorbic Acid and antioxidants like Gallic and Ellagic Acids that help reduce dark spots, blemishes and brightens the skin.
Pros
- Formulated with Kakadu Plum, one of the world’s highest sources of Vitamin C
- Boosts collagen production in skin while hydrating the skin
- Inhibits oxidative stress and UV damage
- Product is free from artificial colours, fragrances or essential oils
- 100% organic, cruelty-free, phthalate-free
Cons
- Percentage of Vitamin C is not known
Koko Chemistry Vitamin C Serum
As mentioned earlier this is just my second vitamin C after Vya Naturals Vitamin C Serum. I didn’t have any high hopes with the serum since vitamin C does take time to show effects. Application of the serum initially gave me a little tingling sensation. Later on my skin didn’t experience any tingling sensation with alternate day use. The formulation has 20% Vitamin C (which might not seen beginner friendly). It has a super clarifying effect on my skin as I can see how my right cheek has been looking clear with the reduction of acne marks and scars. I have already repurchased this Vitamin C Serum.
Pros
- Formulation has 20% Vitamin C along with low molecular weight HA and Grape Seed Oil, Carrot Seed Oil, Rosehip Oil
- Oily skin type can skip using a moisturizer since the serum is milky in consistency
- Shows considerable amount of effects in brightening and plumpness of the skin
- Serum consistency is perfect for regular use while being light yet hydrating
Cons
- Not a beginner friendly Vitamin C serum due to 20% concentration
Ponds Vitamin C Serum
Ponds has definitely nailed this vitamin C serum while also keeping the price super affordable. Right from the packaging, consistency and efficiency of the serum everything is good. The only problem with the product is a little bit of artificial fragrance. Although the fragrance doesn’t linger much, due to the fragrance the serum may not be suitable for sensitive skin types.
Pros
- Made with 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, glycerine, Lecithin and other star ingredients
- Suitable for all skin types except sensitive skin
- Makes the skin moisturized and smooth
- Gives bright and glowing skin with regular use although shows slower results
- Texture is very lightweight without any greasy feeling
- Improves the skin texture
- Can be layered under a moisturizer or sunscreen due to watery consistency
- Beginner friendly Vitamin C Serum due to non irritating formula
- Doesn’t tingle or irritate the skin even when applied in excess
Cons
- Contains fragrance
- Percentage of Vitamin C in the serum is not known
- Fragrance feels very bitter although it’s not too lingering
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Vitamin C Serum in India
Can I use vitamin C serum everyday?
It’s important to start slowly when using any vitamin C serum. Begin by using it every alternate day, and gradually increase to daily use if your skin can tolerate it. I you use any other actives such as AHA, BHA, retinol then try using the vitamin C only twice a week on days you do not use other actives. Some people may experience redness, irritation, or even breakouts with Vitamin C, so it is important to decide the frequency of usage according to your skin’s tolerance
How long does it take to see results from a vitamin C serum?
With regular use, results from vitamin C serums may be visible over 6-8 weeks. Brightening dark spots takes longer – about 3-4 months of continued use. Results vary from person to person so be regular with the usage.
Can vitamin C serum be used with retinol or AHAs?
No. Combining vitamin C serum with retinol, AHA, BHA or other potent actives in the same routine can potentially cause irritation. Use them in different skincare routine or a few days apart.
How to store vitamin C serum properly?
Store your vitamin C serum in a cool dark place to maintain its potency. Discard if it changes colour or consistency as this indicates the vitamin C has oxidized. Do not store your vitamin C serum in bathroom cabinet or shelf.
What are the disadvantages of vitamin C serum for face?
Vitamin C can make the skin more sensitive to UV rays, so it’s important to use a broad spectrum sunscreen during the day when using a Vitamin C serum. Vitamin C serum may cause dryness, flaking and peeling of skin.
We hope you like this blog post of Best Vitamin C Serum in India useful. We will add other vitamin C serums to this list once we try them out.
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