I'm 22 years old, have combination sensitive skin and my concerns are hyperpigmentation (sun spots) and brightening my skin tone.
I have been using Skinceuticals vitamin C (CE ferulic and serum 10) for the past year. When I use it on a regular basis (every morning) I really see a difference in the radiance of my skin. However my skin reacts very badly to it when it begins to oxidize, therefore I can only use a serum for 3 months and then have to buy a new one. I strongly believe that this serum is made to last 3 months and no more contrary to what the bottle says. I would love to purchase 15ml bottles instead of 30ml but they do not sell them in europe. I hit rock bottom when I opened my latest C E ferulic to find it had already oxidised before even using it.
I am at a crossroads where I wonder if it is worth it for me to keep using ascorbic acid. I don't think I can justify spending 170+ euros on a serum every 3 months.
I have tried dupes such as paula's choice and geek and grogeous but I am sensitive to them and I seem to only tolerate Skinceuticals. They don't have cerave vitamin C in europe and clinique's fresh pressed has salicylic acid in it which I cannot tolerate on a daily basis.
I started using the Bubble Skincare "Day Dream" serum with Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Arbutin and Tranexamic Acid for a few weeks but i don't know if it's a good alternative to L-AA.
I head THD Ascorbate was a promising derivative but I can't seem to find a good serum with it in europe.
What do you think about my situation?
Thank you so much
Have you tried this serum? It has 10% ascorbic acid, so the formula is gentler and is very similar to the Skinceuticals one - it might be worth a try since it's only about 20 EUR https://whatsinmyjar.com/product/timeless-skin-care-10-vitamin-c-e-ferulic-acid-serum (I think it's available at the brands' eu store: https://timelessskincare.eu/en/menu/serums/10-vitamin-c-e-ferulic-acid-16795)
Ascorbic Acid is the most effective anti-oxidant in skincare, and it is hard to find something that matches both the protection from new sun damage + helps target existing pigmentation spots - especially since you've seen good results for your skin with it already. At the same time, also look into azelaic acid and niacinamide against pigmentation - both are effective and work for sensitive skin (more in our actives guide here: https://whatsinmyjar.com/skin-guide/wimj-skincare-system/actives-a-game/top-actives-for-even-skin-tone/)