10 Best Vitamin C Serums in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
Finding the best vitamin C serum shouldn’t feel complicated—it’s all about choosing a formula that brightens, protects, and supports your skin’s health. From fading dark spots to boosting collagen production, a well-formulated vitamin C serum enhances your complexion and strengthens your skin’s defense against environmental damage.
In this guide, we’ll help you choose the best vitamin C serum by focusing on concentration, stability, and key ingredients. With recommendations verified by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Angelie Chua, you can trust that these options are safe and effective. Whether you’re new to vitamin C or upgrading your routine, we’ll walk you through the essentials and share top picks—all available on Shopee and Lazada!
Quick List - Top Vitamin C Serums
Dermorepubliq
Delivers All the Benefits of Vitamin C Without Breaking the Bank
Garnier
Targets Stubborn Spots for a Clearer, More Even Skin Tone
Dr. Angelie Chua is a dedicated Thomasian physician specializing in dermatology, with board certification from the Philippine Dermatological Society. She completed her residency at UST Hospital and is currently pursuing a fellowship in Trichology (hair disorders). Passionate about beauty, health, history, music, and travel, she fosters continuous learning and expertise in diverse fields. Dr. Chua is committed to providing exceptional care and staying at the forefront of dermatological advancements for the benefit of her patients.
Sharrys is a writer for lifestyle and trendy articles, helping readers make smart choices. She is all about delivering high-quality content that keeps up with the latest trends. When she’s not researching her next write-up, you’ll find her reading a good book, binge-watching documentaries, or catching up on some much-needed sleep at home.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
- Why You Can Trust Us
- Vitamin C Interaction Warning: Do Not Mix Vitamin C With Exfoliating Acids and Retinol
- How to Choose a Vitamin C Serum - Buying Guide
- Choose L-Ascorbic Acid (LAA) for Fast-Acting Brightening and Collagen Boost1
- Start With 10% Then Slowly Increase to No More Than 20% for a Balanced Approach2
- Look for Additional Ingredients That Enhance Vitamin C’s Benefits3
- Choose Dark or Opaque Bottles to Keep Vitamin C Fresh4
- 10 Best Vitamin C Serums to Buy Online
- No. 1Dermorepubliq | 15% L-Ascorbic Acid + E + Ferulic Acid Brightening Formula Serum
- No. 2Garnier | Bright Complete Vitamin C Booster Serum
- No. 3Klued | Vit C 15% Serum
- No. 4iWhite Korea | Glow Booster Vitamin C Serum
- No. 5Glow Glass | Vitamin C&E Serum Ferulic Glow Booster
- 5 more products
- Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Dr. Angelie Chua
- When Is the Best Time to Use a Vitamin C Serum?
- Is Vitamin C Serum Safe for Pregnant Women?
- How Long Does It Take to See Results from a Vitamin C Serum?
- How Can I Tell If My Vitamin C Serum Has Expired?
- How Long Should I Wait Before Applying Skincare After Vitamin C?
- Discover More Skincare Essentials for Healthy and Glowing Skin
- How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Why You Can Trust Us
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
Vitamin C Interaction Warning: Do Not Mix Vitamin C With Exfoliating Acids and Retinol
Being mindful of which ingredients pair well with vitamin C helps maximize its brightening and protective benefits, enhancing its effectiveness for your skin.
It's best to avoid combining vitamin C with exfoliating acids like AHAs, BHAs, or retinoids. This combination can cause increased skin sensitivity, stinging, irritation, and may even disrupt the skin barrier. If you wish to use these ingredients together, try applying them at different times of the day. For example, use an AHA or BHA cleanser to ensure full removal before applying vitamin C. Alternatively, apply vitamin C in the morning and your retinoid at night to avoid interactions. This approach lets you benefit from each active ingredient without causing unwanted side effects.
Remember to follow up with a moisturizer to lock in the serum and keep your skin hydrated. If you're using vitamin C in the morning, always apply sunscreen afterward, as it can increase your skin's sensitivity to sunlight, making it more prone to sun damage.
How to Choose a Vitamin C Serum - Buying Guide
Choosing the right vitamin C serum doesn't have to be overwhelming. This guide will help you find the best option for your skin type, desired concentration, and skincare goals.
Choose L-Ascorbic Acid (LAA) for Fast-Acting Brightening and Collagen Boost
If you're after fast, powerful antioxidant protection and visible skin benefits, LAA is the top choice as it brightens, shields, & boosts collagen production faster than inactive forms.
L-Ascorbic Acid (LAA) is the most potent and bioavailable form of vitamin C, offering immediate antioxidant protection, skin brightening, and collagen production. While highly effective, it is also unstable and can oxidize quickly. Higher concentrations may cause stinging, redness, or irritation, so it’s best to start with a lower concentration and increase gradually.
On the other hand, inactive forms of vitamin C, such as sodium ascorbyl phosphate and magnesium ascorbyl phosphate take longer to convert into an active form on the skin but still provide brightening and anti-aging benefits over time. These are gentler options, ideal for those with sensitive skin or those seeking a longer-lasting formula.
Avoid vitamin C products with less than 10% L-ascorbic acid, as they may not be effective. Keep in mind, higher concentrations aren’t always better—anything above 20% L-ascorbic acid could be too irritating and won't offer extra benefits.
Start With 10% Then Slowly Increase to No More Than 20% for a Balanced Approach
Starting with lower concentrations first allows your skin to gradually adjust to a new ingredient, minimizing the risk of irritation or sensitivity.
For first-time users, it's best to start with a 10% concentration for a balanced approach to antioxidant protection and skin brightening. This strength is effective yet gentle enough for most skin types, including sensitive and dry skin, providing visible results while minimizing the risk of irritation.
For mature skin, going up to 20%—the maximum recommended concentration—can help fade dark spots, even out skin tone, and boost skin firmness. However, keep in mind that exceeding 20% does not provide additional benefits and may lead to irritation, purging, or sensitivity. To avoid adverse reactions, monitor your skin’s reaction and pair higher concentrations with sunscreen to minimize adverse reactions.
Look for Additional Ingredients That Enhance Vitamin C’s Benefits
The best vitamin C serums are even more effective when combined with ingredients that support skin hydration, brightening, and protection.
Get a More Stable and Potent Formula With Vitamin E and Ferulic Acid
This duo boosts Vitamin C's ability to fight sun-induced aging, reducing the appearance of wrinkles, dark spots, and other sun-related skin issues.
Vitamin E and ferulic acid boost the stability and enhance the effectiveness of vitamin C, making it even more potent while offering extra protection against UV damage. This powerful combination helps fight free radicals, reduces sun-induced aging, and extends the serum’s shelf life, ensuring long-lasting benefits. For maximum antioxidant power, look for serums that include both of these ingredients.
Pair With Niacinamide for A Brighter, More Even Skin Tone
When paired with vitamin C, niacinamide helps soothe and protect the skin, allowing both ingredients to work without causing irritation or sensitivity.
Niacinamide (vitamin B3) complements vitamin C by addressing multiple skin concerns. It helps reduce hyperpigmentation, regulate oil production, and strengthen the skin barrier. This combination is especially beneficial for oily and acne-prone skin, while also improving overall skin texture. Though generally well tolerated, it’s best to introduce these ingredients gradually to minimize the risk of sensitivity.
Combine with Hyaluronic Acid for Long-lasting, Deep Hydration
Hyaluronic acid helps to lock in moisture, preventing dryness and allowing vitamin C to effectively deliver its skin brightening benefits.
Hyaluronic acid is a powerful humectant that attracts moisture from the environment, helping to prevent the dryness or irritation that vitamin C can sometimes cause. By maintaining hydration, it plumps the skin, improving its texture and elasticity. This makes hyaluronic acid especially beneficial for those with dry, dehydrated, or sensitive skin, as it helps to keep the skin comfortable, smooth, and nourished throughout the day.
Strengthen and Protect Your Skin Barrier With Peptides and Ceramides
Peptides and ceramides work together to promote skin repair, improve texture, and boost collagen, enhancing the overall benefits of your skincare routine.
Peptides and ceramides work together to fortify the skin’s barrier, enhance elasticity, and reduce the appearance of fine lines. When paired with vitamin C, they further strengthen the skin, help retain moisture, and improve firmness. This combination makes them excellent additions for those focusing on anti-aging, as they support skin resilience, maintain hydration, and promote a smoother, more youthful complexion.
Choose Dark or Opaque Bottles to Keep Vitamin C Fresh
Choosing packaging that reduces exposure to light and air helps keep your serum stable, preserving its effectiveness so you can enjoy the full benefits throughout its shelf life.
Vitamin C is highly sensitive to light, air, and heat, which can cause it to oxidize and lose its potency. To preserve its stability, choose serums that are stored in airtight, dark glass bottles or opaque pump containers, as these reduce exposure to light and contaminants. Avoid clear or plastic packaging, as they allow light and oxygen to break down the formula more quickly, diminishing its effectiveness over time. Proper packaging ensures that you get the full benefits of the vitamin C in your serum.
10 Best Vitamin C Serums to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Vitamin C Form | Concentration | Other Key Ingredients | Dark-Colored Bottle | Packaging | Net Weight | |||||
1 | Dermorepubliq 15% L-Ascorbic Acid + E + Ferulic Acid Brightening Formula Serum | | Delivers All the Benefits of Vitamin C Without Breaking the Bank | L-Ascorbic Acid | 15% | Vitamin E, Ferulic Acid, Polyglutamic Acid | Dropper | 30mL | ||
2 | Garnier Bright Complete Vitamin C Booster Serum | | Targets Stubborn Spots for a Clearer, More Even Skin Tone | Ethyl Ascorbic Acid | unknown | Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid, Hyaluronic Acid, Lemon Extract | Dropper | 15mL | ||
3 | Klued Vit C 15% Serum | | Infused With Polyglutamic Acid to Keep Your Skin Radiant and Plump | L-Ascorbic Acid | 15% | Vitamin E, Ferulic Acid, Polyglutamic Acid | Dropper | 30mL | ||
4 | iWhite Korea Glow Booster Vitamin C Serum | | Added Fruit Extracts to Fade Dark Spots and Even Skin Tone | Ascorbic Acid | unknown | Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid, Sea Buckthorn, Lemon, Pomegranate, Acerola, Kakadu Plum, and Grapefruit Extracts | Sachet | 6mL | ||
5 | Glow Glass Vitamin C&E Serum Ferulic Glow Booster | | Deep Hydration and Protection for Glowing, Healthy Skin | Ascorbic Acid | 10% | Vitamin E, Alpha Arbutin, Ferulic Acid, Aloe Vera Extract | Dropper | 30mL | ||
6 | COSRX The Vitamin C 13% | | Brightening Serum With 13% Vitamin C for Dark Spot Care | Ascorbic Acid | 13% | Vitamin E, Allantoin, Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide | Dropper | 20mL | ||
7 | SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic® With 15% L-Ascorbic Acid | | A Blend of Vitamin C, Ferulic Acid, and Vitamin E for Youthful Skin | L-Ascorbic Acid | 15% | Vitamin E, Ferulic Acid | Dropper | 30mL | ||
8 | Luxe Organix Power Glow Vita Glow C Serum | | A Highly Concentrated Serum With Probiotics for a Healthier Skin Barrier | Ascorbic Acid | 20% | Galactomyces, Pomegranate, Portulaca, Rice, Soy Bean, Barley, Grape, and Pumpkin Ferments | Dropper | 30mL | ||
9 | Dear, Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop | | Formulated With Centella Asiatica to Soothe and Repair Acne-Prone Skin | Ascorbic Acid | 5% | Centella asiatica Extract, Yuzu Extract, Grapefruit Extract, Peony Root Extract, Skullcap Root Extract, Hyaluronic Acid. | Dropper | 35mL | ||
10 | CeraVe Skin Renewing Vitamin C Serum | | A Gentle and Effective Solution to Brighten and Strengthen Your Skin | L-Ascorbic Acid | 10% | Ceramides, Hyaluronic Acid, Panthenol (Vitamin B5) | Squeeze Tube | 30mL | ||
Dermorepubliq15% L-Ascorbic Acid + E + Ferulic Acid Brightening Formula Serum
Delivers All the Benefits of Vitamin C Without Breaking the Bank
There’s also vitamin E and ferulic acid, two antioxidants that help guard against free radical damage. Together, they boost the power of vitamin C even further. Free from alcohol, sulfates, silicones, parabens, and any artificial colors or scents, it’s gentle enough for sensitive skin, as many users happily report.
| Vitamin C Form | L-Ascorbic Acid |
|---|---|
| Concentration | 15% |
| Other Key Ingredients | Vitamin E, Ferulic Acid, Polyglutamic Acid |
| Dark-Colored Bottle | |
| Packaging | Dropper |
| Net Weight | 30mL |
Targets Stubborn Spots for a Clearer, More Even Skin Tone
Garnier's booster serum brightens skin and shows noticeable results in just three days! Infused with 30x vitamin C, the serum neutralizes free radicals and boosts collagen to target dark spots and uneven tone. It inhibits melanin production to help lighten skin and enhance your natural glow.
The serum also features salicylic acid to exfoliate, while lemon extract works to brighten your complexion. Plus, it locks in moisture with glycerin and hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide helps soothe the skin. Reviews confirm it effectively fades dark spots, leaving skin looking clearer and healthier.
| Vitamin C Form | Ethyl Ascorbic Acid |
|---|---|
| Concentration | unknown |
| Other Key Ingredients | Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid, Hyaluronic Acid, Lemon Extract |
| Dark-Colored Bottle | |
| Packaging | Dropper |
| Net Weight | 15mL |
Infused With Polyglutamic Acid to Keep Your Skin Radiant and Plump
The formula comes in a dark-colored bottle with a dropper to protect it from oxidation. While some may prefer a pump, its affordable price and effectiveness make it a go-to for refreshed, glowing skin. Reviews highlight that it noticeably brightens the skin, though it has a slightly sticky feel that absorbs quickly.
| Vitamin C Form | L-Ascorbic Acid |
|---|---|
| Concentration | 15% |
| Other Key Ingredients | Vitamin E, Ferulic Acid, Polyglutamic Acid |
| Dark-Colored Bottle | |
| Packaging | Dropper |
| Net Weight | 30mL |
Added Fruit Extracts to Fade Dark Spots and Even Skin Tone
Looking for a skincare solution that brightens, hydrates, and smooths your skin? The iWhite Korea Glow Booster is enriched with vitamin C and a blend of nourishing fruit extracts like lemon, pomegranate, and acerola. This potent formula helps lighten dark spots and acne marks, promoting a youthful, plump complexion.
With niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, the serum provides nourishment and hydration. Many find visible improvements within a week, noticing smoother skin texture, fading dark spots, and a brighter, more even complexion. The result is a radiant, glowing appearance that looks refreshed and revitalized.
| Vitamin C Form | Ascorbic Acid |
|---|---|
| Concentration | unknown |
| Other Key Ingredients | Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid, Sea Buckthorn, Lemon, Pomegranate, Acerola, Kakadu Plum, and Grapefruit Extracts |
| Dark-Colored Bottle | |
| Packaging | Sachet |
| Net Weight | 6mL |
Deep Hydration and Protection for Glowing, Healthy Skin
Additionally, the formula is free from fragrances, alcohol, parabens, and dyes, making it suitable for all skin types. Reviewers mention how it visibly reduces dark spots and acne scars with regular use, leaving skin looking refreshed. They also love how easily it absorbs, leaving no greasy residue behind.
| Vitamin C Form | Ascorbic Acid |
|---|---|
| Concentration | 10% |
| Other Key Ingredients | Vitamin E, Alpha Arbutin, Ferulic Acid, Aloe Vera Extract |
| Dark-Colored Bottle | |
| Packaging | Dropper |
| Net Weight | 30mL |
Brightening Serum With 13% Vitamin C for Dark Spot Care
The formula also includes vitamin E, niacinamide, allantoin, and hyaluronic acid to improve skin texture. These ingredients help reduce hyperpigmentation and protect against sun damage and environmental stressors. Buyers appreciate how lightweight it feels on the skin while effectively brightening with vitamin C.
| Vitamin C Form | Ascorbic Acid |
|---|---|
| Concentration | 13% |
| Other Key Ingredients | Vitamin E, Allantoin, Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide |
| Dark-Colored Bottle | |
| Packaging | Dropper |
| Net Weight | 20mL |
A Blend of Vitamin C, Ferulic Acid, and Vitamin E for Youthful Skin
This is a highly popular vitamin C serum and for good reason! It combines 15% vitamin C, 1% vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol), and 0.5% ferulic acid, offering superior antioxidant protection and reducing the signs of aging. Though a bit pricey, many consider it worth the cost.
The lightweight, oil-free formula is also easy to apply and absorbs quickly. With regular use, it improves skin texture and protects against environmental damage, making it a go-to for a youthful glow. According to reviews, it leaves skin smoother, brighter, and more even-toned.
| Vitamin C Form | L-Ascorbic Acid |
|---|---|
| Concentration | 15% |
| Other Key Ingredients | Vitamin E, Ferulic Acid |
| Dark-Colored Bottle | |
| Packaging | Dropper |
| Net Weight | 30mL |
A Highly Concentrated Serum With Probiotics for a Healthier Skin Barrier
Probiotics, including pomegranate, portulaca, rice, soybean, barley, grape, and pumpkin ferments, deeply hydrate and reduce inflammation. They also support your skin’s natural defenses for a healthier complexion. Reviewers love the radiant, moisturized feel it provides, leaving skin visibly smoother.
| Vitamin C Form | Ascorbic Acid |
|---|---|
| Concentration | 20% |
| Other Key Ingredients | Galactomyces, Pomegranate, Portulaca, Rice, Soy Bean, Barley, Grape, and Pumpkin Ferments |
| Dark-Colored Bottle | |
| Packaging | Dropper |
| Net Weight | 30mL |
Formulated With Centella Asiatica to Soothe and Repair Acne-Prone Skin
Dear, Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop offers a gentle yet effective way to brighten and even out skin tone. With 5% stabilized ascorbic acid and citrus fruit extracts, it helps reduce dark spots and provides antioxidant protection. The mild formula makes it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
It also contains Centella asiatica extract, known for its soothing and healing benefits. This ingredient is especially helpful for acne-prone skin, soothing irritation while calming redness. Users find it effective in treating pimples and bumps, leaving their skin smoother and clearer.
| Vitamin C Form | Ascorbic Acid |
|---|---|
| Concentration | 5% |
| Other Key Ingredients | Centella asiatica Extract, Yuzu Extract, Grapefruit Extract, Peony Root Extract, Skullcap Root Extract, Hyaluronic Acid. |
| Dark-Colored Bottle | |
| Packaging | Dropper |
| Net Weight | 35mL |
A Gentle and Effective Solution to Brighten and Strengthen Your Skin
It also includes three essential ceramides to restore and maintain your skin's natural barrier, plus hyaluronic acid to boost hydration. Buyers recommend applying it every other day to see how your skin reacts. Once your skin has adjusted, you can gradually increase usage to daily.
| Vitamin C Form | L-Ascorbic Acid |
|---|---|
| Concentration | 10% |
| Other Key Ingredients | Ceramides, Hyaluronic Acid, Panthenol (Vitamin B5) |
| Dark-Colored Bottle | |
| Packaging | Squeeze Tube |
| Net Weight | 30mL |
Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Dr. Angelie Chua
Even if you know some of the main points to consider before purchasing a vitamin C serum, you might still have some unanswered questions on your mind. To answer those, read Dr. Angelie Chua's thoughts on some of the internet's most asked questions.
When Is the Best Time to Use a Vitamin C Serum?
Vitamin C serums work best in the morning, protecting the skin from damage caused by UV rays and pollution. While they can also be used at night for added brightening benefits, daytime application should always be followed by sunscreen to prevent irritation and maintain effectiveness.
Is Vitamin C Serum Safe for Pregnant Women?
Yes, vitamin C is generally safe for pregnant women and helps reduce hyperpigmentation, boost collagen production, and strengthen the skin barrier. However, since pregnancy can make the skin more sensitive, it’s best to use a gentle, stable form and consult a dermatologist before adding it to your routine.
How Long Does It Take to See Results from a Vitamin C Serum?
Regularly used vitamin C serums typically show visible results within 4 to 8 weeks. Over time, they help brighten the skin, fade dark spots, and even out skin tone by reducing excess melanin production. With consistent use, you'll notice a more radiant complexion and improved skin texture, as it works to reduce the appearance of pigmentation and promote a youthful glow.
How Can I Tell If My Vitamin C Serum Has Expired?
An expired vitamin C serum often changes color from clear or light yellow to orange or brown, indicating oxidation and reduced effectiveness. Other signs include a sour smell, ingredient separation, or a sticky texture, meaning it’s time to replace the product.
How Long Should I Wait Before Applying Skincare After Vitamin C?
It’s best to wait 1-2 minutes after applying vitamin C serum to allow full absorption before layering other skincare products. This helps maximize its benefits and ensures it remains stable when combined with moisturizers or sunscreen.
Discover More Skincare Essentials for Healthy and Glowing Skin
If you're looking for more ways to nourish and revitalize your skin, check out our expert-reviewed buying guides and curated lists of the best skincare products available in the Philippines. Complete your routine with essentials that hydrate, repair, and enhance your natural glow!
How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
Top 5 Vitamin C Serums
No. 1: Dermorepubliq｜15% L-Ascorbic Acid + E + Ferulic Acid Brightening Formula Serum
No. 2: Garnier｜Bright Complete Vitamin C Booster Serum
No. 3: Klued｜Vit C 15% Serum
No. 4: iWhite Korea｜Glow Booster Vitamin C Serum
No. 5: Glow Glass｜Vitamin C&E Serum Ferulic Glow Booster
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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