Vitamin serums are concentrated, lightweight skincare products that deliver a vitamin, most often vitamin C, vitamin E or a vitamin A derivative, in a form that’s easy to layer under moisturiser. They’re a popular step in a spa-style routine because they feel light and are easy to add.
Here is what each vitamin is generally used for, how to choose one, how to use it, and a few well-reviewed serums. Skincare results vary from person to person and nobody can promise a particular result; patch-test, and talk to a dermatologist if you have a skin condition or are pregnant.
The vitamins, in brief
- Vitamin C serums are popular in morning routines under sunscreen; makers market them for a brighter-looking complexion. Pure vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) is effective but can sting and oxidise; derivatives are gentler and more stable.
- Vitamin E (tocopherol) is an oily antioxidant that’s often paired with vitamin C, or used on its own as a rich oil for dry patches.
- Vitamin A (retinol and related retinoids) is a night-time ingredient used in many anti-ageing routines. It can irritate, makes skin more sun-sensitive, and isn’t recommended during pregnancy, so start slowly and talk to a dermatologist.
- Vitamin B3 (niacinamide) is a gentle, well-tolerated ingredient found in many serums for oily or combination skin.
How to choose
Match it to your skin. Dry skin often prefers vitamin E oils and serums with hyaluronic acid; oily skin, lighter vitamin C or niacinamide serums.
Mind the packaging. Vitamin C oxidises in light and air; opaque or dark bottles and smaller sizes stay fresh longer. A serum that has turned dark orange or brown is past its best.
Start gentle. If you’re new to actives, start with a lower strength and use it every other day.
Read the label, not the claims. Look for the ingredient list and directions; ignore “clinically proven” banners unless the maker shows the study.
How to use one
Apply a few drops to clean, dry skin, pat it in, then follow with moisturiser. Vitamin C usually goes on in the morning, under sunscreen; retinol at night. Don’t layer several strong actives at once. If your skin reacts, stop and give it a few days to settle.
Serums to consider
TruSkin Vitamin C Serum with Hyaluronic Acid (2 fl oz)
For: a first, gentle vitamin C serum
- Vitamin CSAP, a gentle derivative
- AlsoHyaluronic acid, vitamin E, aloe, jojoba
- Free ofParabens, dyes
The most-reviewed vitamin C serum we found, by a long way. Per the listing it uses sodium ascorbyl phosphate (SAP), a stable, gentler form of vitamin C meant for daily use, with hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, aloe and jojoba, and dries down lightly. The maker says to apply 2 to 3 pumps, then moisturiser and SPF.
What we like
- Enormous owner track record
- Gentler vitamin C form
- Large bottle, simple routine
Watch out for
- Large bottle; use it while it's fresh
- Patch-test before daily use
CeraVe Skin Brightening Vitamin C Serum (1 oz)
For: pure vitamin C from a fragrance-free brand
- Vitamin C10% L-ascorbic acid
- AlsoHyaluronic acid, 3 ceramides
- Free ofFragrance, parabens
Pure vitamin C (10% L-ascorbic acid, per the listing) with hyaluronic acid and CeraVe's three ceramides, in packaging designed to slow oxidation. Fragrance-free, paraben-free, non-comedogenic and allergy-tested, with a light gel texture. Pure vitamin C can sting a little at first; start every other day.
What we like
- Fragrance-free
- Pure vitamin C in protective packaging
- Ceramides and hyaluronic acid
Watch out for
- Costs more per ounce
- L-ascorbic acid can tingle
SeoulCeuticals Vitamin C Serum with C E Ferulic
For: a C, E and ferulic-style serum at a lower price
- Vitamin CSAP, a gentle derivative
- StyleC + E + ferulic
- OriginKorean skincare
A budget take on the popular vitamin C, E and ferulic combination. Per the listing it uses sodium ascorbyl phosphate, a stable, gentle vitamin C derivative the maker says suits sensitive skin. The listing makes bold results claims; we don't repeat them, and you should judge it on how your skin feels.
What we like
- Low price
- Gentle vitamin C form
- Widely reviewed
Watch out for
- Big claims in the listing; treat with caution
- Watch for colour change as it ages
Cliganic Pure Vitamin E Oil (1 oz)
For: dry patches, cuticles and lips
- Vitamin ED-alpha tocopherol, 30,000 IU
- SourceSoybean oil
- Testing3rd-party purity tested, per the maker
Natural vitamin E (d-alpha tocopherol) from soybean oil, sold for face, skin, hair and nails, vegan and purity-tested by an independent lab, per the listing. It is thick: many people use a drop on dry patches, cuticles and lips rather than the whole face.
What we like
- Inexpensive
- Multi-use
- Widely reviewed
Watch out for
- Thick and sticky
- From soy; check if you're allergic
For the rest of an at-home facial, see our guide to spa skincare at home and the best facial steamers.
How we rate
We score every pick out of 10 on four things, weighted for how people actually use spa gear at home: how well it does its job (40%), whether that is a steamer's steady mist, a pillow's grip on a slick tub or a robe's softness after the tenth wash; build and materials (25%), including what owners report after months of use; ease of use and care (20%), meaning setup, cleaning and storage; and value (15%).
We have not tested these products ourselves. We read the manufacturer's specifications and care instructions and look for the patterns in verified owners' reviews, both the praise and the recurring complaints. No brand pays for placement, and a commission cannot buy a higher rating. When a pick changes, we will say so on this page.
Frequently asked questions
When should I use a vitamin C serum?
Most people use it in the morning on clean skin, under moisturiser and sunscreen. Follow the maker’s directions.
Can I use vitamin C and retinol together?
Many people use vitamin C in the morning and retinol at night rather than layering them. If you’re unsure, ask a dermatologist.
Why has my vitamin C serum turned brown?
Vitamin C oxidises over time, especially in light and air. A darkened serum is past its best and may be less effective.
Is vitamin E oil good for the face?
It’s rich and heavy, so some people love it on dry skin and others find it too thick or breakout-prone. Patch-test first.
