3. Best vitamin C serum: True Botanicals Vitamin C Booster
Vitamin C is a go-to skin brightener, simultaneously minimizing hyperpigmentation, combating oxidative stress, and fighting against photodamage. As a result, skin appears smoother, plumper, and more even. Sounds like a powerhouse ingredient, right? Well, you’re definitely not wrong, but its biggest downside is that it’s notoriously unstable, losing its chemical power when formulated in a cream, liquid, or serum. That’s why we love this powder formula so much. You can add it to any moisturizer or serum. Another bonus: It’s formulated with ferulic acid, so the two ingredients work together seamlessly to only enhance their antioxidant benefits.
4. Best retinol: Marie Veronique Gentle Retinol Night Serum
Retinol is known for its healthy aging abilities, promoting collagen product and cell turnover. With these credentials, you can expect skin to appear brighter and more youthful. But not only does this serum use a microencapsulated retinol for a gentle approach, but it’s also paired with vitamin C with the help of vitamin E to help stabilize the two for an impressively smoother, luminous complexion.