




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
Olay

Achieve A Radiant Glow With This Niacinamide and Vitamin C Blend

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.
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.

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.
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.

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.

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.

The best vitamin C serums are even more effective when combined with ingredients that support skin hydration, brightening, and protection.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Best For | Vitamin C Form | Concentration | Other Key Ingredients | Packaging | Dark-Colored Bottle | Net Weight | |||||
1 | Human Nature Vitamin‑C + Hya Calamansi Radiance Serum | ![]() | Citrus-Infused Radiance for Daily Glow | Dry Skin, Dull Skin | Ascorbyl Glucoside, Ascorbic Acid | Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Calamansi Extract, Zinc PCA/Lactate, Olive Leaf Extract | Dropper | 30 mL | |||
2 | Olay White Radiance Niacinamide + Vitamin C Super Serum | ![]() | Achieve A Radiant Glow With This Niacinamide and Vitamin C Blend | Dull Skin, Oily Skin | Ascorbyl Glucoside, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid | Niacinamide (99% Pure), Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5), Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) | Dropper | 30 mL | |||
3 | Isntree Hyper Vitamin C 23 Serum | ![]() | High-Potency Fade for Clear Complexion | Dull Skin, Acne-Prone Skin | Pure Ascorbic Acid | 23 % | Panthenol, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Betula Platyphylla Japonica Juice (Birch Juice) | Dropper | 20 mL | ||
4 | Belo Essentials Vitamin C Ultra Bright Complex Serum | ![]() | Ultra-Clear Serum for Spotless Revival | Dull Skin, Acne-Prone Skin | 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid | 15 % | Vitamin E (Tocopheryl Acetate), Feruloyl Oligopeptide-33, Glycerin | Dropper | 30 mL | ||
5 | Garnier 30x Vitamin C + Niacinamide Serum | ![]() | Pore-Refining Glow With Gentle Boost | Oily Skin, Acne-Prone Skin | 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid | Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate | Dropper | 30 mL | |||
6 | iWhite Korea Glow Booster Vitamin C Serum | ![]() | Tube-Squeezed Freshness for Quick Shine | Dull Skin, Acne-Prone Skin | Multi-Form (Ascorbic Acid, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate) | Niacinamide, Glutathione, Salix Alba Bark Extract (Natural BHA), Sodium Hyaluronate | Squeeze Tube | 40 mL | |||
7 | GOODAL Green Tangerine Vita-C Dark Spot Care Serum Alpha | ![]() | Tangerine Glow for Subtle Spot Care | Dull Skin, Sensitive Skin | Ascorbyl Glucoside | Niacinamide (4%), Arbutin, Green Tangerine Extract (70%), Sodium Hyaluronate | Dropper | 40 mL | |||
8 | SKINEVER Vitamin C Brightening Serum | ![]() | Repairing Hydration for Luminous Repair | Dull Skin, Sensitive Skin | Ascorbic Acid | Niacinamide, Centella Asiatica Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate | Dropper | 20 mL | |||
9 | BREYLEE Vitamin C Serum | ![]() | Glass-Skin Essence for Sheer Brilliance | Dull Skin, Dry Skin | 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid | Panthenol, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate (Licorice), Sodium Hyaluronate | Dropper | 17 mL | |||
10 | Dr. Alvin Pure Vit. C Fresh Release Activator Serum Mix | ![]() | Fresh-Mix Activator for Potent Renewal | Dull Skin | Pure L-Ascorbic Acid powder | Hydrating Serum Base | Dual-Chamber | 20 mL | |||
Buyers love how this serum leaves their complexion looking fresh and even after just a few mornings of use. One shopper shared that the light citrus aroma wakes up her routine without being overwhelming. Users with oily skin report fewer breakouts over time. A few mentioned that it layers nicely under makeup for all-day hydration. That said, some wish the bottle lasted a bit longer with generous application.
| Best For | Dry Skin, Dull Skin |
|---|---|
| Vitamin C Form | Ascorbyl Glucoside, Ascorbic Acid |
| Concentration | |
| Other Key Ingredients | Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Calamansi Extract, Zinc PCA/Lactate, Olive Leaf Extract |
| Packaging | Dropper |
| Dark-Colored Bottle | |
| Net Weight | 30 mL |
| Best For | Dull Skin, Oily Skin |
|---|---|
| Vitamin C Form | Ascorbyl Glucoside, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid |
| Concentration | |
| Other Key Ingredients | Niacinamide (99% Pure), Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5), Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) |
| Packaging | Dropper |
| Dark-Colored Bottle | |
| Net Weight | 30 mL |
| Best For | Dull Skin, Acne-Prone Skin |
|---|---|
| Vitamin C Form | Pure Ascorbic Acid |
| Concentration | 23 % |
| Other Key Ingredients | Panthenol, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Betula Platyphylla Japonica Juice (Birch Juice) |
| Packaging | Dropper |
| Dark-Colored Bottle | |
| Net Weight | 20 mL |
Users report that dark areas begin to fade after consistent morning and evening application. The skin absorbs it quickly, with no waiting needed before applying lotion. Many say rough patches smooth out noticeably over several weeks. Mornings feel brighter when they layer it under sunscreen each day. Reviewers recommend giving it a shake first, as a few noticed watery separation when they skipped that step.
| Best For | Dull Skin, Acne-Prone Skin |
|---|---|
| Vitamin C Form | 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid |
| Concentration | 15 % |
| Other Key Ingredients | Vitamin E (Tocopheryl Acetate), Feruloyl Oligopeptide-33, Glycerin |
| Packaging | Dropper |
| Dark-Colored Bottle | |
| Net Weight | 30 mL |
| Best For | Oily Skin, Acne-Prone Skin |
|---|---|
| Vitamin C Form | 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid |
| Concentration | |
| Other Key Ingredients | Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate |
| Packaging | Dropper |
| Dark-Colored Bottle | |
| Net Weight | 30 mL |
Dispensing from the tube makes mornings quick, and skin takes on a healthy sheen right away. Acne spots lighten noticeably after several weeks for many who use it daily. The light citrus scent lingers softly without clashing with other steps. Oily skin stays matte yet soft throughout the day. The initial stickiness fades quickly, though some users skip it if the scent bothers them.
| Best For | Dull Skin, Acne-Prone Skin |
|---|---|
| Vitamin C Form | Multi-Form (Ascorbic Acid, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate) |
| Concentration | |
| Other Key Ingredients | Niacinamide, Glutathione, Salix Alba Bark Extract (Natural BHA), Sodium Hyaluronate |
| Packaging | Squeeze Tube |
| Dark-Colored Bottle | |
| Net Weight | 40 mL |
Users say that patting it on in the morning helps their tone look more refreshed without any lingering heaviness. The citrus hint fades quickly, leaving skin hydrated and ready for additional layers. Those who use it consistently notice lighter marks after several weeks, though results are gradual rather than immediate. People with sensitive skin layer carefully, as it may tingle lightly at first. The glow builds well under SPF, making it easy to fit into busy routines.
| Best For | Dull Skin, Sensitive Skin |
|---|---|
| Vitamin C Form | Ascorbyl Glucoside |
| Concentration | |
| Other Key Ingredients | Niacinamide (4%), Arbutin, Green Tangerine Extract (70%), Sodium Hyaluronate |
| Packaging | Dropper |
| Dark-Colored Bottle | |
| Net Weight | 40 mL |
| Best For | Dull Skin, Sensitive Skin |
|---|---|
| Vitamin C Form | Ascorbic Acid |
| Concentration | |
| Other Key Ingredients | Niacinamide, Centella Asiatica Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate |
| Packaging | Dropper |
| Dark-Colored Bottle | |
| Net Weight | 20 mL |
Users say that adding a drop to hurried morning routines helps bring back a fresh look over time. It layers smoothly under cream, avoiding any tacky wait in busy routines. Shine-prone skin stays matte longer into the afternoon. Red, irritated areas settle with consistent nightly application. The faint citrus scent lingers briefly, leading some to mix it lightly with other products for comfort.
| Best For | Dull Skin, Dry Skin |
|---|---|
| Vitamin C Form | 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid |
| Concentration | |
| Other Key Ingredients | Panthenol, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate (Licorice), Sodium Hyaluronate |
| Packaging | Dropper |
| Dark-Colored Bottle | |
| Net Weight | 17 mL |
| Best For | Dull Skin |
|---|---|
| Vitamin C Form | Pure L-Ascorbic Acid powder |
| Concentration | |
| Other Key Ingredients | Hydrating Serum Base |
| Packaging | Dual-Chamber |
| Dark-Colored Bottle | |
| Net Weight | 20 mL |
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
No. 1: Human Nature|Vitamin‑C + Hya Calamansi Radiance Serum
No. 2: Olay|White Radiance Niacinamide + Vitamin C Super Serum
No. 3: Isntree|Hyper Vitamin C 23 Serum
No. 4: Belo |Essentials Vitamin C Ultra Bright Complex Serum
No. 5: Garnier |30x Vitamin C + Niacinamide Serum
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.

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