Gentle Skin Brightening Serum

She loves writing about all things beauty since it gives her the excuse to play with makeup all day – and scare her husband while she's testing out the latest face masks. We do a Best of INCIDecoder email once a month with the most interesting products and ingredients we bump into. A helper ingredient that usually comes to the formula coupled with PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil. A four amino acid peptide that works by reducing the production of the signal molecule, inteleukin-6 (IL-6) that promotes inflammation in the skin. It’s mostly used as an emulsifier and surfactant but most often it is used to solubilize fragrances into water-based formulas. It can be found naturally in the roots & leaves of the comfrey plant, but more often than not what's in the cosmetic products is produced synthetically get more info.

This formulation is oil-free yet very hydrating, so it’s great if your skin is on the oiler side. It does have a citrus fragrance so if that’s not your bag – or if your skin is sensitive – you might prefer a fragrance-free brightening serum. Much like SkinCeutical’s C E Ferulic serum, this product also has a loyal following. It uses glycolic and lactic acid to brighten dark spots and improve skin texture and scarring. It is quite punchy so proceed with caution if you’re prone to irritation.

Marshmallow gives this gentle, lightweight liquid its illuminating power. The plant is known for its hydrating, anti-inflammatory effects that balance the Vitamin Cg that packs an exfoliating punch. Alpha arbutin, a plant-based alternative to hydroquinone, is a serious radiance booster. And when combined with lactic and azelaic acid, we're talking a complete reboot of your complexion.

Because it’s fragrance-free and made with so many reparative ingredients this is one of our favorite skin-brightening serums for sensitive skin. However, if your skin is too sensitive for vitamin C, you can try The Ordinary’s Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA, instead. Few brands on the market target signs of aging and acne simultaneously, but CLEARSTEM skincare is determined to change that. Using natural, non-toxic ingredients, CLEARSTEM's brightening serum combines mandelic acid, turmeric, and vitamin C, so expect a glowy complexion—and a reduction in acne—after just a few uses. For those with sensitive skin, finding a powerful yet delicate serum can be a brightening serum trends challenge. CeraVe has formulated a product that is both gentle and effective, combining hydrating ceramides with pure vitamin C.

This vitamin C serum has our stamp of approval for all skin types, skin tones, and ages, and our go-to for anyone looking to firm and smooth their skin. We appreciated that the serum had a lightweight texture that didn’t feel greasy on our already oily skin, and we noticed that after a few weeks of using it, our post-acne marks were visibly reduced. We love that this product is available at your local drugstore, relatively affordable, and highly effective.

It is expensive, but if you’re looking to invest in a brightening serum, this is one of the best that money can buy. It has 15% vitamin C, as well as vitamin E and ferulic acid that work in tandem to protect the skin from environmental damage and reveal a brighter complexion. The water-like texture makes it great for all skin types and sinks in quickly. According to board-certified dermatologist Jennifer Herrmann, MD, vitamin C has three main functions. The first is protecting against environmental stressors and free radicals, an antioxidant benefit that slows signs of aging and reduces damage overall.

We found that this product actually helped improve the appearance of our oily skin overall. The formula contains L-ascorbic acid, the purest form of vitamin C for powerful antioxidant protection, as well as hyaluronic acid for an added boost of hydration. This serum offers up a one-two punch of vitamin C to fight free radicals and support cell turnover and alpha hydroxy acids to remove dead skin cells for smooth, radiant skin. “It’s a gentle formulation that’s great for sensitive skin types,” says Dr. Chang. Royal Fern’s patented, vitamin-rich complex is blended with natural antioxidant-rich botanicals to strengthen the skin barrier and reduce signs of aging.

Sometimes a gentle approach works best if your skin is particularly reactive, and this serum is case in point. It has brightening niacinamide, but is coupled with hydrating hyaluronic acid and skin-reinforcing ceramides to protect the skin barrier and reduce irritation, and at a great price-point too. Several online reviewers admit that this serum is a tad overpriced, but most agree that it really works. "In three weeks, I have seen a huge change in my skin," shares one Sephora reviewer.

But given how brightening this serum is, we highly recommend it if you’re dealing with dull skin. Klur Brilliant Light Multi-Correctional Repair Serum isn’t a harsh formula that contains potentially irritating acids; rather, it’s a gentle product that actually makes a noticeable improvement in the texture and tone of the skin. Considering that it’s effective, non-irritating, suitable for all skin types, and doesn’t contain harsh acids, we think it’s a great choice for anyone with sensitive skin. We noticed a real improvement in the texture of our skin when we used SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic, as well as a reduction in the appearance of fine lines.

Whatever the cause, our complexions need a major tune-up to bring back a lively glow—one that will convince us that we're not slowly morphing into Nosferatu with every passing day. Brightening products, brightening serums specifically, can add an illuminating boost to any routine regardless of your skin type. And if you're prone todark spots,acne scars, or uneven skin tone, the best skin-brightening serums can be especially helpful for bringing your skin back to baseline. In conclusion, skin-brightening serums as well as skin-lightening and skin-whitening products can be an effective solution for addressing various skin concerns such as hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and uneven skin tone. By understanding the science behind these serums, choosing the right product, and incorporating it into your skincare routine, you can achieve a brighter, more even complexion.

Affordable Brightening Serum

Whether you’re dealing with uneven skin tone or pesky dark spots, this treatment is the answer to all your discoloration brightening serum soft woes. It has Norwegian Kelp Extract in it, a property that’s known to increase controlled exfoliation and remove excess pigment, along with other anti-agers that promote cellular turnover and brighten. As the product activates on skin, you may experience a brief tingling or some minor sloughing, which is normal. Superficial dead skin cells are being lifted off by the active ingredients to unveil smoother, brighter skin.

Its wild rose extract refines pores while its light-reflecting pigments blur their appearance and gives your face a lit-from-within finish. The vitamin C in this formula comes from spirulina, a form of blue algae that helps to even and brighten the complexion while reducing the appearance of blemishes. It also combines alguronic acid to reduce the look of fine lines and marine ferment, a protein that protects the skin matrix.

Beyond that, the serum is formulated with signature CeraVe ingredients that moisturize the skin and reinforce its barrier functions, like moisture-locking dimethicone, barrier-restoring ceramides, and hydrating hyaluronic acid. This brightening serum is a quintessential CeraVe product, which means that it’s reasonably-priced, gentle, and genuinely effective at its main purpose, which is to brighten the skin. SkinCeuticals’ iconic C E Ferulic serum could also be on this list, but if you’re dealing with serious discoloration, opt for this bottle instead.

By adding this one step to your routine , you'll never have to rely solely on makeup to hide imperfections and deliver the glow you want. It features retinol, an ingredient that increases the skin turnover rate while encouraging the shedding of dead skin cells. It’s particularly helpful for improving skin texture and reducing fine lines, but it also has anti-pigmentation effects. Because of its simple, lightweight texture and fragrance-free formula, we can safely recommend this brightening serum for all skin types. If you have sensitive skin, we recommend introducing it slowly and gradually to avoid irritation. Remember that consistency is key, and maintaining a regular skincare routine will help you achieve the best results.

It also speeds up the overall repair and renewal process that’s needed to eliminate pigmentation in the skin. The strongest anti-pigmentation serum on our list is the PCA Skin Pigment Gel, but it’s also the most likely to have negative side-effects. It’s claimed to be a serum that can target pigmentation while also giving the skin a glow. However, the depigmentation ingredients Neutrogena chose, though promising, are also under-researched. It seems to us as though they prioritized having an exclusive and easy-to-stabilize formula over having the same well-researched ingredients all the other brands use. The key ingredient in this serum is hydroquinone, which is a pigmentation-reducing medication with a ton of research proving its effectiveness.

Infused with potent Vitamin C, this fast-acting formula visibly brightens dull-looking skin in one use, while Hyaluronic Acid plumps skin with hydration. With our carefully calibrated brightening serum with Vitamin C, the radiance is real. Perfect for easily aggravated skin, this serum from Bliss is formulated with a newer form of vitamin C called 3-O ethyl ascorbic acid, which is thought to be less irritating without sacrificing efficacy.

Otherwise, there are lots of hydrating agents and antioxidant-rich plant extracts that make the skin just generally bouncy and glowy. This formula is made with a not-so-potent but still helpful derivative of vitamin C. Sun exposure and pollution can cause the skin to misbehave and produce melanin in an irregular manner, but the stabilized vitamin C offers antioxidant protection that prevents this damage. This ingredient is also helpful for preventing acne breakouts, so we’re happy to recommend this serum for acne-prone skin. However, if your skin is more on the dry side then you might prefer Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop, instead. As far as the brightening effects of this serum go, this is not the most powerful serum on our list.

In the Lab, analysts use the Visia Complexion Analyzer device to track changes in skin during the product's use, including hyperpigmentation, lines and wrinkles, and pores. Formulated for optimal skin absorption, the airtight packaging on this standout L’Oréal Paris product helps ensure that the vitamin C inside stays stable and therefore effective. GH Beauty Lab experts think it's especially great for targeting hyperpigmentation (a.k.a. dark spots) since you can use the precise, pointed applicator to spot treat problem areas. Reviewers rave that "skin looks brighter" and "smoother" after using this serum. The L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives Vitamin C Serum is our top pick due to its accessibility, functional packaging, and effectiveness at improving skin tone and texture. If you prefer an oil-based product that will really boost the radiance of your skin and keep it hydrated, we recommend the Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Firming Oil.

• These ingredients are generally found in various forms such as creams, gels, and serums, with serums often being the most potent and fast-absorbing option.

• This ingredient is also helpful for preventing acne breakouts, so we’re happy to recommend this serum for acne-prone skin.

• Not only does this serum quench super-dry skin with hyaluronic acid, it contains niacinamide and vitamin E, both of which are powerful antioxidants that help to improve the skin’s natural moisture barrier and even out the complexion.

• As you may know, vitamin C is one of the top power players in terms of brightening effects “since it acts as an antioxidant by reducing free radical formation and preventing future sun damage,” says Dr. Caufield.

• Paired with moisturizing glycerin and dimethicone, it doubles as a skin-illuminating primer that gives a dewy look whether it’s worn alone or under makeup.

It also contains hydrating hyaluronic acid and panthenol that give the skin a general glow. This serum is loaded with ingredients that ward off discoloration and dark spots, such as niacineamide, tranexamic acid, and kojic acid. It also includes hepes, which is an acid that offers gentle exfoliation. With continued use, you'll find a noticeable difference in your skin tone and texture. Apply the skin brightening serum, focusing on areas with hyperpigmentation or dark spots. This serum is packed with brightening vitamin C and gives the skin a sought-after glow.

Olay Luminous Miracle Boost Concentrate

"My dark spots have reduced significantly." It contains 15% vitamin C to help lighten dark spots, smooth fine lines and minimize the appearance of pores. It also uses marine extracts to prevent new dark spots from forming as it improves your skin’s overall brightness and tone. Alongside firsthand testing across our beauty editors , we asked board-certified dermatologists for their tried-and-tried picks that they recommend to patients to select the best topical skin-care products containing vitamin C. Ahead, the best vitamin C serums for an even skin tone and a glowy, radiant finish. This fragrance-free serum from Olay is formulated with protective antioxidants, such as niacinamide and vitamin C, that brighten and even out complexion.

What to Look For in a Vitamin C Serum

Like many brightening serums, this product also relies on vitamin C and hyaluronic acid to promote a glowing complexion. Apply the serum after cleansing and toning, and follow up with a hydrating moisturizer to lock in moisture. Dermatologists and skincare experts generally agree that skin brightening serums can be effective in addressing the aforementioned skin concerns when used correctly. However, it's important to note that individual results may vary, and some people may experience side effects such as irritation or allergic reactions. It's crucial to perform a patch test before incorporating a new product into your skincare routine and consult a dermatologist if you experience any adverse reactions.

Dr. Yadav explains that because vitamin C is a water-soluble nutrient, it can be used topically in many different forms, including face serums. Boasting a unique oil-serum hybrid formula, the Versed Sunday Morning Antioxidant Oil-Serum refines the look of pores as it immerses your skin in brightening camellia oil, sea buckthorn extract, chamomile extract and vitamin E. As it increases your skin’s radiance, this antioxidant-rich serum also locks in hydration and smoothes away unwanted texture. Vitamin C serums don’t always provide a ton of hydration, but if you’re looking for one that truly pumps up the moisture, this is the one we recommend for you. The formula feels like a typical, lightweight face oil—as opposed to some vitamin C serums that have a grittier texture—and it nourishes the skin in addition to providing all of the wonderful antioxidant benefits.

They comment on many elements of the formulas, including texture, absorption, ease of use and scent. Hundreds of data points are then tallied to find the best vitamin C serums. Here, read all about the best vitamin C serums you can buy for every skin type and need, plus how to choose a good formula for you. There has been much debate about whether it’s better to use the ingredient to protect skin during the day, or replenish it at night, but Dr. Herrmann says you can choose which time of day to apply— just be consistent.