9 best vitamin C serums for glowing skin, according to 270 women

Score: 84/100

Natural doesn’t mean less effective, and this gentle vegan, natural and 91% organic serum is testament to that. It got to work fast, with the majority of our testers saying their skin looked brighter immediately.

It wasn't just a flash in the pan, either — this formula scored highest for the best long-term improvements, with a noticeable reduction in pigmentation, scarring and wrinkles after the trial period. There were also no complaints of irritation. A deserved winner.

Score: 83/100

Give thirsty skin a dose of hydration with this effective serum, containing hyaluronic acid (which holds 1,000 times its weight in water, so helps to lock in moisture) and 7.5% vitamin C.

Sinking into clean skin effortlessly, the non-greasy formula reduced our testers’ dark spots and left skin visibly glowing, with some noticing faded under-eye circles too.

Score: 81/100

Looking for a quick fix? You're not the only one. With its lightweight texture and immediate effect on the skin, testers loved how this serum pepped up dull complexions, leaving them instantly glowy, "like a lovely shiny primer".

Many noticed an improved radiance and a reduction in their pigmentation, and the serum absorbed quickly while hydrating their skin. A great product for layering underneath moisturisers or makeup, it couldn't be easier to slot into a daily skincare routine.

Score: 81/100

This may be the most expensive serum we tested, but the elegant packaging and high dose of vitamin C (15%) helps justify the price.

After the trial period, our panel were unanimous in saying skin felt firmer, with some noticing a reduction in wrinkles too. Overall, this lightweight serum delivers where it matters — improving skin tone, texture and overall radiance.

Score: 80/100

Part of Elizabeth Arden’s capsule collection, these biodegradable pods contain a luxurious dose of oil-soluble vitamin C, which is designed to hydrate skin.

With plenty to cover the face, neck and décolletage, this was the best serum on test for its hydrating properties, with all agreeing the effect was instant and long-lasting. The silky formula was an ideal base for makeup application and the majority saw scarring and pigmentation fade.

Score: 80/100

With a pleasant tightening and firming effect, our testers could feel this one getting to work immediately. The creamy texture felt hydrating but never greasy – ideal for sensitive skin – but it took a little while to fully absorb.

The majority saw an instant brightening effect, which lasted impressively throughout the test. They also liked the intuitive dispenser, which gave the perfect amount of formula to cover the whole face. A luxurious option for all skin types, and beautifully packaged to boot.

Score: 79/100

We know it’s what’s inside that counts, but our panel was won over by the technical-looking pump packaging here. Part of Murad’s Vita-C range, this serum contains real gold, which has been proven to have a stabilising effect on active ingredients such as vitamin C, in turn making it more potent. The formulation also boasts the exfoliating properties of glycolic acid for better absorption.

Although suitable for all skin types, some testers noticed slight tingling during the first couple of applications, so if you’re new to vitamin C you might want to work your way up to the recommended twice daily dosage. The brightening effects were noticeable though, with the more seasoned vitamin C users being particularly impressed.

Score: 79/100

It's hardly a secret that fermenting food is akin to supercharging it with nutrients — the benefits of ingredients are amplified and concentrated by the process. It follows, then, that adding powerful ferments to an already concentrated vitamin C serum will only enhance its effects.

This lightweight formula, featuring brightening yeast ferment and pigmentation-targeting molasses ferment, proved our theory correct. Easy to spread and quick to absorb, it left our panel’s skin feeling smooth, radiant and plump with a long-lasting dewy glow.

Score: 77/100

Paula’s choice it may be, but if you’re after a dark spot fader and anti-ager combined, then this might also be the best choice for you. It's packed with powerful antioxidants such as ferulic acid, which help protect the skin against free radicals and keep the 15% vitamin C content stable.

Testers loved how the dropper packaging allowed them to create a custom dosage based on their skin’s needs; simply add a drop or two into your moisturiser if you don't fancy adding another step to your skincare routine. Many found it hydrating and agreed that it boosted radiance, firmed up skin and evened out their tone. For mature skin, it’s worth the money.