If you have acne scars, vitamin C can help minimize and even completely fade their appearance (especially in the case of dark spots, also known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation). Below, we’ve created a guide to the best vitamin C serums for acne scars. Show
Our Recommendations1. The Glow Maker Antioxidant SerumMaelove Vitamin C Serum for Brightening and Anti-Aging Maelove The Glow Maker Antioxidant Serum This lightweight and oil-free vitamin C serum from Maelove combines vitamin C with other powerful ingredients to fight signs of aging, brighten, and hydrate the skin. Skin types: All Skin Types Best for: Brightening and Anti-Aging Tested on animals: No How to use: After cleansing, apply an even layer of the serum onto the face, neck, and chest. Follow up with a moisturizer, and an SPF during the day. See on Amazon See on Walmart See on Maelove.comWhy we picked it This affordable vitamin C serum contains a 15% concentration of l-ascorbic acid (a form of vitamin C), which works to minimize signs of aging, promote a more even skin tone, and brighten the complexion. It also contains vitamin E and ferulic acid, two antioxidant-rich ingredients that have been proven to increase the efficacy of vitamin C. The Glow Maker also features hyaluronic acid, which helps hydrate the skin. Pros and consPros
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This lightweight serum contains a botanical blend that helps soothe and nourish the skin. It includes aloe, magnolia, and vitis vinifera. IngredientsWater (Aqua), Ascorbic Acid, Ethoxydiglycol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Glycerin, Lecithin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ferulic Acid, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Callus Culture Extract, Magnolia Officinalis Bark Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract, Xanthan Gum, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Metabisulfite, Triethanolamine, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexyglycerin, Maltodextrin, Tocopherol Research
2. Vitamin C Serum with Ferulic Acid, Vitamin E, andDr. Brenner Vitamin C Serum for Brightening and Anti-Aging Dr. Brenner Vitamin C Serum with Ferulic Acid, Vitamin E, and Hyaluronic Acid This affordable vitamin C serum combines l-ascorbic acid (a form of vitamin C) with other potent ingredients to brighten, even skin tone, increase firmness, and fight against signs of aging. Skin types: All Skin Types Best for: Brightening and Anti-Aging Tested on animals: No How to use: After cleansing, apply an even layer of the serum onto the face, neck, and chest. Follow up with a moisturizer, and an SPF during the day. See on Amazon See on Walmart See on DrBrennerShop.comWhy we picked it This is an excellent product for those looking for a budget-friendly, fragrance-free vitamin C serum. It contains a 20% concentration of vitamin C, which works to fight signs of aging and even skin tone while defending against damaging oxidative stress. The formula also contains antioxidant-rich vitamin E and ferulic acid, which have been proven to increase the efficacy of vitamin C. Pros and consPros
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In addition to the ingredients mentioned above, this vegan and cruelty-free vitamin C serum contains hyaluronic acid, which helps attract moisture to the skin and lock it in for a plump and hydrated complexion. IngredientsWater, Ethoxydiglycol, L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) 20%, Propylene Glycol, Glycerin, Laureth-23, Tocopherol (Vitamin E) 1%, Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid ) 1%, Ferulic Acid .5%, Panthenol, Triethanolamine, Phenoxyethanol Research
3. Vitamin C SerumMad Hippie Vitamin C Serum for Anti-aging and brightening Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum This natural vitamin C serum contains sodium ascorbyl phosphate (a stable form of vitamin C) and other effective skincare ingredients to help brighten, hydrate, and provide anti-aging benefits. Skin types: All Skin Types Best for: Anti-aging and brightening Tested on animals: No How to use: After cleansing, apply four to five drops of the serum onto the face, neck, and chest. Follow up with a moisturizer, and an SPF during the day. See on Amazon See on Walmart See on UltaWhy we picked it This effective yet affordable vitamin C serum contains antioxidant-rich vitamin E and ferulic acid, which have been shown to increase the efficacy of vitamin C. It is also packed with additional ingredients that help hydrate, soften, and smooth the skin, including konjac root and hyaluronic acid. Pros and consPros
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In addition to the ingredients mentioned above, this vegan and cruelty-free vitamin C serum contains chamomile, grapefruit, and clary sage, which provide antioxidant protection and calm the skin. IngredientsWater Deionized, Vitamin C (Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate), Alkyl Benzoate, Vegetable Glycerin, Water, Glycerin, Sodium Levulinate, Sodium Anisate, Clary Sage (Salvia Sclarea), Grapefruit (Citrus Grandis), Hyaluronic acid, Amorphophallus Konjac Root Powder, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf, Vitamin E (Tocotrienol), Ferulic acid, Chamomile Flower Extract (Recutita Matricaria), Sodium Phytate, Xanthan Gum, Hydroxyethylcellulose Research
4. C E Ferulic with 15% L-Ascorbic AcidSkinCeuticals Vitamin C Serum for Anti-aging and brightening SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic with 15% L-Ascorbic Acid This brightening and anti-aging vitamin C serum is often considered one of the best of the best. It helps improve signs of aging while fighting environmental aggressors. Skin types: Normal, Dry, Combination and Sensitive Best for: Anti-aging and brightening Tested on animals: Yes How to use: After cleansing, apply four to five drops of the serum onto the face, neck, and chest. Follow up with a moisturizer, and an SPF during the day. See on Amazon See on Walmart See on Skinceuticals.comWhy we picked it This fragrance-free vitamin C serum contains a potent 15% concentration of l-ascorbic acid, a form of vitamin C that helps neutralize free radicals, defend against oxidative stress, and brighten and fight signs of aging. It is formulated with antioxidant-rich vitamin E and ferulic acid, which both further protect against environmental stressors. These ingredients have also been shown to increase the efficacy of vitamin C. Pros and consPros
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This anti-aging serum remains effective for at least 72 hours after being absorbed into the skin. It also contains additional ingredients that help hydrate the skin, including glycerin and sodium hyaluronate. IngredientsWater, Ethoxydiglycol, L-Ascorbic Acid, Propylene Glycol, Glycerin, Laureth-23, Alpha Tocopherol, Phenoxyethanol, Triethanolamine, Ferulic Acid, Panthenol, Sodium Hyaluronate Research
5. 10% Pure Vitamin C SerumLa Roche-Posay Vitamin C Serum for Hyperpigmentation and Wrinkles La Roche-Posay 10% Pure Vitamin C Serum This serum contains a potent concentration of vitamin C, which is known for its ability to brighten, diminish post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and even skin tone. Skin types: All Skin Types Best for: Hyperpigmentation and Wrinkles Tested on animals: Yes How to use: After cleansing, apply the serum all over the face, neck, and chest. See on Amazon See on Walmart See on TargetWhy we picked it Vitamin C is an incredibly effective skincare ingredient that is known to boost collagen production, which in turn brightens, fades hyperpigmentation, and diminishes fine lines and wrinkles. This serum contains a potent 10% concentration of vitamin C (ascorbic acid), which will help even overall skin tone and texture. Pros and consPros
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In addition to ascorbic acid, this serum contains salicylic acid, which gently exfoliates, and hyaluronic acid and sodium hyaluronate, which draw moisture to the skin. IngredientsAqua/Water/Eau, Ascorbic Acid, Cyclohexasiloxane, Glycerin, Alcohol Denat., Potassium Hydroxide, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Polysilicone-11, Dimethicone, Propylene Glycol, Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Tocopherol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Adenosine, Acetyl Dipeptide-1 Cetyl Ester, Peg-20 Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate, Poloxamer 338, Salicylic Acid, Polyacrylamide, Toluene Sulfonic Acid, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Xanthan Gum, Caprylyl Glycol, Disodium Edta, Bht, Laureth-7, Parfum/Fragrance. Research
6. Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%The Ordinary Vitamin C Serum for Evening Skin Tone and Fighting the Signs of Aging The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2% This is one of the best The Ordinary products to add to your skincare routine, because it contains a potent concentration of vitamin C (ascorbic acid), which brightens and evens out overall skin tone while fighting the signs of aging. Skin types: All Skin Types Best for: Evening Skin Tone and Fighting the Signs of Aging Tested on animals: No How to use: After cleansing, apply the product to the face, neck, and chest. Follow up with a moisturizer. See on Amazon See on Walmart See on UltaWhy we picked it Those looking to brighten their skin tone while also fighting against the signs of aging should turn to this product, which has the highest concentration of antioxidant-rich vitamin C of any of the products the brand offers. Since vitamin C has been shown to help with hyperpigmentation, this option is also great for those looking to even out dark spots. In addition to vitamin C, this product contains sodium hyaluronate (the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid), which increases moisture in the skin. Pros and consPros
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Since this product contains such a high percentage of vitamin C, some users may experience tingling as their skin adjusts, particularly if they’re newer to topical vitamin C. IngredientsAscorbic Acid, Squalane, Isodecyl Neopentanoate, Isononyl Isononanoate, Coconut Alkanes, Ethylene/Propylene/Styrene Copolymer, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Silica Dimethyl Silylate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glucomannan, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Butylene/Ethylene/Styrene Copolymer, Acrylates/Ethylhexyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Trihydroxystearin, BHT. Research
7. 20% Vitamin C + E Ferulic Acid SerumTimeless Vitamin C Serum for Brightening and Anti-Aging Timeless 20% Vitamin C + E Ferulic Acid Serum This affordable vitamin C serum contains a 20% concentration of vitamin C, which helps brighten and fight signs of aging. Skin types: All Skin Types Best for: Brightening and Anti-Aging Tested on animals: No How to use: After cleansing, apply the serum onto the face, neck, and chest. Follow up with a moisturizer, and an SPF during the day. See on Amazon See on Walmart See on TargetWhy we picked it This lightweight serum contains a 20% concentration of l-ascorbic acid, a form of vitamin C that works to brighten and provide anti-aging benefits. It also contains vitamin E and ferulic acid, two skincare ingredients that protect the skin from environmental stressors and have also been shown to increase the efficacy of vitamin C. Pros and consPros
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In addition to the ingredients mentioned above, this serum contains hyaluronic acid, which attracts moisture to the skin to keep it hydrated. IngredientsWater, Ethoxydiglycol, L-Ascorbic Acid, Propylene Glycol, Alpha Tocopherol, Polysorbate 80, Panthenol, Ferulic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Benzylalcohol, Dehydroacetic Acid Research
8. Vitamin C SerumTruSkin Vitamin C Serum for Brightening and Anti-Aging TruSkin Vitamin C Serum This gentle and affordable serum contains vitamin C, which brightens and fights signs of aging, as well as other soothing and hydrating skincare ingredients. Skin types: All Skin Types Best for: Brightening and Anti-Aging Tested on animals: No How to use: After cleansing, apply the serum onto the face, neck, and chest. Follow up with a moisturizer, and an SPF during the day. See on Amazon See on Walmart See on TargetWhy we picked it This vitamin C serum contains sodium ascorbyl phosphate, a stable form of vitamin C that helps brighten and provide anti-aging benefits. It also contains hyaluronic acid, which attracts moisture to the skin, and vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects against free radical damage to the skin. Pros and consPros
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In addition to the ingredients mentioned above, this serum contains jojoba oil, which moisturizes, and witch hazel, which soothes. IngredientsOrganic Deionized Herbal Infusion, Organic Aloe Barbadensis Leaf (Aloe), Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (Vitamin C), MSM, Botanical Hyaluronic Acid (Cassia Angustifolia Seed Polysaccharide), Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel), Vitamin E (d-alpha Tocopheryl Acetate), Carbomer, (2s)-2-Amino-5-guanidinopentanoic Acid, Organic Gotu Kola, Wildcrafted Horsetail (Equisetum Arvense), Wildcrafted Dandelion, Wildcrafted Geranium, Organic Jojoba Oil (Organic Simmondsia Chinensis), Phenoxyethanol, Ethyl Hexyl Glycerin. Research
9. C15 Super BoosterPaula's Choice Vitamin C Serum for Brightening and Fighting Signs of Aging Paula's Choice C15 Super Booster The 15% concentration of pure vitamin C in this serum helps brighten the skin while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Skin types: All Skin Types Best for: Brightening and Fighting Signs of Aging Tested on animals: No How to use: Massage two to three drops of the serum into clean skin. Follow up with a moisturizer. See on Amazon See on Walmart See on SephoraWhy we picked it This lightweight serum is one of the best Paula’s Choice products, as it contains a powerful concentration of vitamin C, which evens out and brightens the skin tone while also minimizing fine lines and wrinkles. It also contains ingredients that hydrate and soothe the skin. Pros and consPros
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In addition to vitamin C, this serum contains ferulic acid and vitamin E. These antioxidants protect the skin, and are also known to increase the efficacy of vitamin C. IngredientsWater (Aqua), Ascorbic Acid (vitamin C/antioxidant), Butylene Glycol (solvent/texture enhancer), Ethoxydiglycol (solvent/texture enhancer), Glycerin (skin-replenishing), PPG-26-Buteth-26 (emulsifier/skin-softening), PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil (emulsifier/solubility enhancer), Pentylene Glycol (skin-softening slip agent), Tocopherol (vitamin E/stabilizing antioxidant), Sodium Hyaluronate (hydration), Hexanoyl Dipeptide-3 Norleucine Acetate (skin-restoring peptide), Lecithin (skin-restoring/hydration), Ferulic Acid (stabilizing antioxidant), Panthenol (vitamin B5/skin-softening, skin-soothing), Bisabolol (skin-soothing), Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Extract (skin-softening/chelating agent), Propyl Gallate (antioxidant), Sodium Gluconate (chelating agent), Sodium Hydroxide (pH adjuster), Phenoxyethanol (preservative), Ethylhexylglycerin (preservative) Research
10. C-Firma Vitamin C Day SerumDrunk Elephant Vitamin C Serum for Fading Hyperpigmentation and Anti-Aging Drunk Elephant C-Firma Vitamin C Day Serum This serum contains a potent concentration of vitamin C, which is excellent for brightening and lightening post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, as well as fighting the signs of aging. Skin types: All Skin Types Best for: Fading Hyperpigmentation and Anti-Aging Tested on animals: No How to use: Massage the serum into the face, neck, and chest. Follow up with a moisturizer, as well as SPF during the day. See on Amazon See on Ulta See on SephoraWhy we picked it This serum contains a 15% concentration of vitamin C (l-ascorbic acid), which promotes the production of collagen. This in turn helps minimize the appearance of hyperpigmentation, while also providing anti-aging benefits. It also contains antioxidant-rich ferulic acid and vitamin E, which protect the skin from environmental stressors, and have also been shown to increase the efficacy of vitamin C. Pros and consPros
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In addition to the blend of vitamin C, vitamin E, and ferulic acid, this serum contains pumpkin ferment and pomegranate extract, which dissolve skin cells on the surface of the skin for even, smooth skin. IngredientsWater/Aqua/Eau, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Ascorbic Acid, Laureth-23, Glycerin, Lactobacillus/Pumpkin Ferment Extract, Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Juice Extract, Phyllanthus Emblica Fruit Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Tocopherol, Lactobacillus/Punica Granatum Fruit Ferment Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Hydrolyzed Quinoa, Phytosterols, Glutamylamidoethyl Imidazole, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Ferulic Acid, Acetyl Glucosamine, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tetrahydrobisdemethoxydiferuloylmethane, Tetrahydrodemethoxydiferuloylmethane, Tetrahydrodiferuloylmethane, Glycine, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Sucrose, Maltodextrin, Chondrus Crispus Extract, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Isohexadecane, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Sorbitan Isostearate, Propanediol, Pentylene Glycol, Xanthan Gum, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Hydroxide, Chlorphenesin, Polysorbate 60, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Potassium Sorbate, Sorbic Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin Research
FAQsHow long does it take for vitamin C to fade acne scars?In the case of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, how long it takes for these marks to fade differs from person to person, and also depends on the severity of the mark. How diligent you are with applying your vitamin C serum also affects how quickly it will work. Generally, if you're consistent with your application, you should start to see improvement in your post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in about 3 weeks. For pitted or raised acne scars (where the actual texture of the skin is changed, rather than just the color), vitamin C may help minimize their appearance over time, but these scars often need a professional treatment to completely get rid of them. Can I use a vitamin C serum everyday?Yes, you can use a vitamin C serum everyday. Regular application will help you fade your acne scars more quickly. However, some people may find that using a vitamin C serum on a daily basis may irritate their skin. This is especially true for serums that contain a high concentration of vitamin C. If this is your first time using a vitamin C product in your routine, consider applying it every other day to allow your skin to adjust to the ingredient. After a few weeks, you can increase to daily usage, if it seems suitable for your skin. What can you not mix with a vitamin C serum?Since vitamin C is such a powerful skincare ingredient, you often shouldn’t mix a serum with a high concentration of this vitamin with other products containing powerful active ingredients. Some ingredients will actually counteract the effects of vitamin C, while others will just increase your risk of irritation. When you apply a vitamin C serum, you should avoid applying products with AHAs or BHAs (like glycolic acid, lactic acid, and salicylic acid), retinol, or benzoyl peroxide. If you use products with these ingredients in your routine, simply apply them at different times. For example, apply a vitamin C serum in the morning, and retinol at night. The Bottom LineWith consistent usage, the right vitamin C serum can help you minimize the appearance of acne scars for a more even complexion. Consider adding one of these effective serums to your routine to get rid of annoying acne scars once and for all. Can vitamin C serum remove acne scars?Vitamin C also functions as a brightening agent. It has properties that reduce dark spots without changing your skin color. Combining vitamin C serums with other brightening agents like iontophoresis can significantly enhance the results. It improves the appearance of scars caused by acne.
Which brand vitamin C face serum is best?Best overall vitamin-C serum
Four of our dermatologists recommend SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic, which they (and our editors) hail as the gold-standard vitamin-C serum and is suitable for all skin types. “I think it's the best out there,” declares Howe.
Is niacinamide better than vitamin C for acne scars?Scars, Open Pores and skin texture- Vit C is better with improving scars and skin texture, almost equal to retinol kind of effects. Though it takes 5-6 months to show improvement. While Niacinamide is better with improving look of Enlarged Pores. It takes 1-2 months to improve pores.
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