13 Best Drugstore Vitamin C Serums That Have NO Competition

Another drugstore vitamin C serum that I just cannot stop raving about is this one from The Ordinary.

If you specifically want to tackle tough acne scars, strong pigmentation and just want a stronger alternative to vitamin C, but also something that won’t react, cause purging, and just be gentle to sensitive skin, this affordable vitamin C is hands is a rare find!

I had this massive dark spot from a pesky acne breakout once, and within just 2 to 3 weeks of consistent use, this serum lightened it up. It didn’t fully vanish, so I think after about 5 weeks would be a good time to judge!

But here’s the best part – it’s water-free, fragrance-free, and cruelty-free. This serum truly has it all. With only three simple ingredients, Propanediol, Ascorbic Acid, and Alpha-Arbutin, it’s perfect for even the most sensitive skin types.

Now, let’s be real – it can be a little oily. But don’t worry, that’s just the natural tendency of vitamin C. It takes a bit longer to absorb (about 30-50 seconds), and it might feel a bit sticky afterward.

But nothing that a moisturizer on top can’t solve! The stickiness disappears and it becomes oh-so-comfy.

3. The Inkey list 15% Vitamin C + EGF Brightening Serum

Buy on Sephora

As amazing as it sounds, I am not a big fan of The Inkey List. Some of their products are total misses (but many are hits too, including this drugstore Vitamin C serum!)

This baby is packed with 15% Ascorbyl Glucoside, a very stabalized form of vitamin C derivative that actually brightens your skin and shields it from pesky environmental stressors.

Plus, it contains 1% Epitensive, a plant-based Epidermal Growth Factor that keeps your skin elastic and oh-so-healthy. (Now, that’s a unique addition!)

The best part? It’s super lightweight and not at all sticky or tacky like other drugstore serums. But it works a little slowly!

You have to be patient and give it some time – this isn’t an instant-results product. It’ll take around 3 months of consistent use to see a major difference (and I know, waiting is not fun!).

But trust me, good things come to those who wait. This affordable vitamin C serum will leave your skin glowing and healthier than ever. And the price? Just $15! Seriously, what more could you want?

4. TruSkin Vitamin C Serum

There is no way in hell you haven’t heard about this drugstore gem! It’s a legit powerhouse serum that does everythingggg it says (and them more).

Packed with the perfect blend of vitamin C, organic aloe vera, botanical hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E, this drugstore vitamin C serum will not only illuminate your skin but also turn back the clock on those pesky wrinkles and fine lines, along with saying goodbye to hyperpigmentation!

I recommended this to one of my best friends, so here’s her review – “You know I had a ton lot of pigmentation on my forehead, around the nose, and chin? All of those went away like a charm. Not kidding! I think I used 2 bottles of it, so two months. But in all honesty, it might not deliver that instant radiance and glow we all crave from vitamin C.”

This TruSkin vitamin C serum is a bonafide Amazon best-seller with a jaw-dropping 142,000 rave reviews. Seriously, have you ever seen a skincare product with such high ratings? If that doesn’t speak volumes about its effectiveness, we don’t know what does.

5. timeless 20% vitamin c + ferulic acid

Buy on Target

This serum is seriously amazingggg and it’s got everything you need to get your skin looking radiant and healthy.

What makes it so special? Well, it’s got a whopping 20% vitamin C, which is double the power of your average serum. And with the added ferulic acid and vitamin E, you’re getting a triple threat of skin-loving ingredients.

But that’s not all! This serum is designed with airtight packaging, so your vitamin C stays fresh for much longer than other serums on the market. Talk about getting your money’s worth!

And the results speak for themselves. This serum gives your skin an instant boost of radiance, leaving you with a bright, glowing complexion. Plus, it helps fade dark spots and evens out skin tone.

But wait, there’s more! This serum is lightweight, non-greasy, and absorbs in seconds. No sticky residue here! And the best part? It’s free of chemicals, fragrances, and cruelty. So please feel good about putting it on your skin!

Now, before you rush out to buy it, a word of caution. This drugstore serum is powerful stuff, so it’s not recommended for beginners. If you’re new to the vitamin C game, start with something milder. But if you’re ready to take your skincare to the next level, this is the serum for you.

6. jumiso All Day Vitamin Brightening Serum

Buy on YesStyle

I bet you haven’t heard about this amazing Korean brand and this truly all-in-one drugstore brightening serum! If you don’t know anything about Korean beauty, know this – their products are lightyears ahead of us!

And this right here is one of the best Korean vitamin C serums out there!

And here’s the best part – it’s not just a vitamin C serum. This baby is packed with vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and K, along with other awesome ingredients like sea buckthorn, glycerine, niacinamide, and licorice. Talk about a powerhouse!

But that’s not all. This bottle is water-free, vegan, alcohol-free, and non-sticky. It’s the real deal when it comes to treating acne, acne scars, and hyperpigmentation. And the best part? No tingling sensation on your precious skin.

If you’re looking for just a good serum that keeps your skin truly clear and effortlessly healthy, you’ll not get a better deal than this! It’s like getting a boost of multivitamins for your skin, but with all the benefits of a regular drugstore vitamin C serum.

7. The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%

Buy on sephora

buy on nordstrom

Have you heard about The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension? It’s like a superhero for your skin! (You know I love The Ordinary skincare to the core of my skincare heart, so it wasn’t shocking!)

This water-free, silicone-free serum is packed with 23% L-Ascorbic Acid (fancy talk for vitamin C), which is known for its skin-brightening powers and its ability to zap fine lines and wrinkles. Plus, it’s got 2% Hyaluronic Acid to keep your skin hydrated.

I’ve been using this drugstore vitamin C serum for a couple of weeks now, and WOW, the results are amazing! My skin looks super bright and radiant, and those pesky lines and wrinkles? They’re vanishing before my eyes.

Seriously, I can’t get enough of it! If you’re struggling with your skin, especially acne scars, you NEED to give this stuff a try.

And if you don’t know how to layer the ordinary products, here’s your fuss-free guide!

8. Vichy LiftActiv Vitamin C Serum

Buy on target

Babe, you know I won’t like it if you’ll spend more than you need but if you can or want incredibly QUICK results, this drugstore vitamin C serum should be a no brainer!

Within just 10 days, you’ll see astonishing results. Hyperpigmentation and dark spots will fade away, leaving your skin brighter and clearer than ever.

Now, we know it might seem strange at first. The serum has a unique smell and a sticky feeling, but don’t worry, it goes away. And that light yellow or amber color when you open it? It’s totally normal, not oxidized at all!

Plus, this serum is dermatologically tested, allergy tested, and free of parabens. It’s non-greasy and made with clean, green ingredients. It’s everything you’ve been looking for in a serum.

9. L’Oreal Paris Skincare 10% Pure Vitamin C Serum

Buy on target

Looking for a top-notch drugstore vitamin C serum? Look no further! Loreal’s 10% pure vitamin C serum is a gem. Packed in a sleek package, it’s just like CeraVe’s, with a potent concentration of vitamin C.

Not only does it improve radiance and brighten dark spots, but it also combats those pesky free radicals that age your skin, a.k.a wrinkles!

But wait, there’s more! This serum is lightweight, fragrance-free, and won’t clog your pores. It’s a superhero formula, free of parabens, mineral oils, and synthetic dyes. You won’t find any of the bad stuff here!

Loreal claims that within just one week, you’ll notice brighter and younger-looking skin. And after four weeks? Those pesky wrinkles, dark spots, and pores will be visibly reduced. My mom can truly vouch for this, it really works!

Applying this serum gives you a warm sensation, which is totally normal for vitamin C serums. So you know it’s doing its magic.

What sets this drugstore vitamin C serum apart is its potency and stability. No more worrying about oxidization thanks to its metal tube packaging.

10. no7 Radiance+ 15% Vitamin C Serum

Buy on target

Here’s another strong, effective, yet drugstore vitamin C serum from No7. This little powerhouse is like a magic wand for tired, dull skin. Say goodbye to blah and hello to a dewy, youthful glow in an instant.

Now, I gotta be honest with you. When you first apply it, you might notice a sticky, tacky feeling. And if your skin tends to be on the dry side, it might feel a little tight.

But here’s the good news – once it sinks in and dries down, you won’t even notice it. And after a little moisturizer, your skin will be feeling fabulous.

But what sets this affordable vitamin C serum apart from other vitamin C products on the market is its unique, fast-acting formula. This stuff is like a superhero for dark spots and acne marks. You can start seeing results in as little as one week.

But you know I don’t share a product until I tell you everything – the good and the bad! Okay, so here’s the only downside. They decided to add a strong, citrus fragrance to the product that does not linger on though but still can be a lot for fragrance sentive babes.

11. dear klairs Freshly Juiced pure vitamin C serum

First things first, this serum is perfect for beginners. It’s got a gentle 5% pure vitamin C, so you won’t feel any irritation or tingling on your skin. Plus, it’s loaded with amazing essential oils and Centella Asiatica Extract, which work wonders to calm and soothe your skin.

And the best part? It’s got a lightweight texture that won’t clog your pores. Oh, and the clear packaging is super convenient – you’ll know exactly when it’s time for a new bottle.

But let’s talk about the downsides… there are a few. Starting with the ingredients, this little bottle has a whopping 46 of them. Yeah, that’s a lot. They claim it’s all safe and healthy, but one wrong ingredient could wreak havoc on sensitive skin types.

And essential oils? Not the greatest idea. Plus, the transparent packaging speeds up the oxidation process, so make sure to store it in a cool, dry place.

To sum it up, I’m still a little unsure about this awesome serum for sensitive skin types. But if you’re rocking normal to combination skin, give it a shot!

I actually gifted it to my dear friend, and she swears by it for her oily skin. She says it’s gentle and instantly brightens her complexion.

12. Versed Stroke of Brilliance Brightening Serum

Buy on versed

Buy on walmart

If you fear that vitamin C serums can make your skin feel oily, smelly funky, or make the skin tingle (we all do that right?), then this Versed brightening serum is your safest bet.

This lightweight, non-tacky serum will firm, hydrate, and strengthen your skin with the power of licorice extracts and niacinamide. Don’t worry, you can safely use vitamin C and niacinamide together for maximum results.

The texture is a dream – a yellow-colored, gel-like formula that feels oh-so-comfy. Instant brightness, anyone?

But here’s a fun fact, it has just 0.5% actual vitamin C in it. Now I don’t know if it truly is a blessing for extra sensitive skin types or not, but I can vouch for the overall brightening effects that it delivers!

13. LilyAna Naturals Vitamin C Serum