Hi everyone! I’m looking for recommendations for a good vitamin C serum. Preferably at least 10% and under/around $20 if possible. I’ve been using the Vichy Liftactiv 15% vitamin C serum but it’s just so pricey and I’m almost out!
I appreciate any recommendations! :)
If you prefer ascorbic acid over vitamin C derivatives, then the Timeless 10% and 20% C+E+Ferulic serums and Geek & Gorgeous C-Glow (15% ascorbic adic) are some of the most popular affordable "dupes" for the SkinCeutical CE Ferulic. The Geek & Gorgeous can be a bit of a hassle, as it has a short shelf life and the brand recommends you store it in the fridge. However, they also sell small empty bottles that you can transfer a few days' worth of product at a time to keep in your bathroom if you don't fancy going to the fridge for you serum every single day.
The Timeless is formulated at a lower pH (about 2.4-2.5 compared to the Geek & Gorgeous at 3.2-3.4), which could be more irritating to the skin (it caused some peeling on me even though it didn't sting or burn).
Melano CC is highly recommended among the Asianbeauty sub on Reddit. It’s inexpensive (~USD10 for 20 ml), many vouched it produces real results; and that it comes in a package that keeps the vitamin c from oxidation. I myself just bought two tubes and can’t wait to try them out.
Vegreen vitamin C serum is a great option when it comes to stability, it is an anhydrous solution in a dark bottle with a pump, super stable
The Inkey List has a cheap one, as does CeraVe, The Ordinary has several vitamin C products and I've heard good things about the Geek & Gorgeous C-glow serum. Depends where you are located, some brands might be easier for you to get!