15 Best Vitamin C Serums in India for Glowing Skin [December, 2023]

Vitamin C serums have become one of the most popular skincare products in recent years. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help reduce signs of aging, brighten skin tone, and protect against environmental damage when applied topically.

With so many vitamin C serums in the Indian market, it can be tricky to determine which ones are really the best. This guide will walk you through how to choose the right vitamin C serum, provide an overview of the top serums available in India, and answer some frequently asked questions.

How to Choose the Best Vitamin C Serum in India

With the wide range of vitamin C serums in India, it’s important to know what to look for when selecting one. Here are some tips for choosing the best vitamin C serum for your needs:

Vitamin C Concentration

Look for serums with 10-20% vitamin C concentration for best results. Lower concentrations (5-10%) are good for beginners. Higher concentrations (above 20%) can be irritating for some skin types.

Vitamin C Form

L-ascorbic acid is the most researched and proven form of topical vitamin C. Other derivatives like ascorbyl glucoside and ascorbyl palmitate are also effective but less potent.

Packaging

Vitamin C degrades when exposed to air and light. Opt for serums in air-tight, opaque packaging to maintain potency. Dark glass bottles are ideal.

Additional Ingredients

Serums with vitamin E, ferulic acid or hyaluronic acid help stabilize vitamin C and boost its effectiveness.

Skin Type Suitability

Make sure to choose a serum suitable for your skin type. Vitamin C can be drying, so drier skin may benefit from oil-based serums. Sensitive skin should avoid high concentrations.

Brand Reputation

Stick to reputable, transparent brands known for quality and safety. Read reviews and ingredient lists carefully.

Top 15 Vitamin C Serums in India

1. Minimalist 10% Vitamin C Serum

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Minimalist 10% Vitamin C Serum is an Amazon’s Choice product and one of the most raved about vitamin C serums amongst Indian users.

It contains a stable form of pure L-ascorbic acid along with vitamin E for added benefits. The 10% concentration is effective yet gentle enough for most skin types.

With over 11,000 reviews and a rating of 4.1/5 stars on Amazon, users report bright, glowing skin and reduced acne marks with regular use. It leaves skin feeling soft and smooth without stickiness.

The airless pump packaging prevents oxidation and degradation of vitamin C. Overall, this is a fantastic daily vitamin C serum with proven results and an affordable price point.

• Vitamin C Form: L-Ascorbic Acid
• Concentration: 10%
• Rating: 4.1/5
• Reviews: 11,809+

2. DermaCo 10% Vitamin C Serum

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DermaCo products have become hugely popular for their high quality and affordable pricing. Their 10% Vitamin C Serum contains 3 proven powerhouse ingredients – 10% L-ascorbic acid, 5% niacinamide and hyaluronic acid.

This dermatologist tested serum helps brighten dull complexions, fade dark spots and improve skin texture with regular use. It is free of parabens, sulfates and artificial fragrances.

With over 7,000 reviews on Amazon and a rating of 3.9/5 stars, users are happy with the serum’s lightweight texture and visible results within a few weeks of use. It also helps minimize acne breakouts. The pump dispenser prevents air exposure.

For glowing, youthful skin, DermaCo’s 10% Vitamin C Serum is a must-try!

• Vitamin C Form: L-Ascorbic Acid
• Concentration: 10%
• Rating: 3.9/5
• Reviews: 7,132+

3. Plum 15% Vitamin C Serum

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Plum is a popular clean beauty brand in India, and their 15% Vitamin C Serum is enriched with vitamin C in the most bioactive and stable form – pure ethyl ascorbic acid. This alcohol-free serum helps fight signs of aging and hyperpigmentation.

Skin looks brighter and more radiant with even tone after regular usage. The serum is lightweight and gets absorbed quickly without leaving a greasy residue.

Over 9,000 Amazon users have given it a 4.1/5 star rating for its effectiveness on pigmentation and acne marks. The airless pump dispenser maintains optimal potency of vitamin C. Overall, this gentle yet potent serum is suitable for all skin types.

• Vitamin C Form: Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
• Concentration: 15%
• Rating: 4.1/5
• Reviews: 9,215+

4. Olay Vitamin C + Niacinamide Serum

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Olay is a well-known and dermatologist-recommended brand. Their Vitamin C + Niacinamide Serum combines two of the most researched skincare ingredients – 15% pure vitamin C and niacinamide.

This oil-free, fragrance-free serum reduces the appearance of dark spots, evens out skin tone, minimizes pores and brightens complexion with regular usage.

It is suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin. Over 400 Amazon users rate it 4.1/5 stars for its lightweight texture and visible improvement in skin’s overall health and radiance.

The pump packaging maintains the product’s integrity. Overall, it’s an excellent daily serum for glowing skin without irritation.

• Vitamin C Form: Pure Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid)
• Concentration: 15%
• Rating: 4.1/5
• Reviews: 446+

5. Garnier Vitamin C Booster Face Serum

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Garnier is a budget-friendly skincare brand that has launched many hits including their Vitamin C Booster Serum. Enriched with 10% pure vitamin C, it tackles uneven skin tone, dullness, dark spots and signs of aging.

This lightweight, quick absorbing serum is suitable for all skin types. It gives an instant glow that lasts all day. Over 27,000 Amazon users rate it 4/5 stars for its effectiveness, gentle formula and value for money.

Some users saw results within a week of daily usage. While budget-friendly, the product quality and packaging are excellent. This is one of the most popular drugstore vitamin C serums in India.

• Vitamin C Form: Pure Vitamin C
• Concentration: 10%
• Rating: 4/5
• Reviews: 27,624+

6. Dot & Key Vitamin C Serum

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Dot & Key’s Vitamin C Serum contains a stabilized combination of 10% vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), vitamin E and 5% niacinamide. This antioxidant-rich formula fades dark spots and brightens dull, uneven skin tone.

Skin feels firmer and more youthful with reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The serum has a lightweight gel-like texture that absorbs quickly.

Over 900 Amazon reviewers rate it 4.2/5 stars for the visible difference it made to their skin tone and texture within a few weeks. No stickiness or irritation either. The airless pump packaging maintains optimal potency.

Overall, this is an effective vitamin C serum for glowing, youthful skin at a mid-range price point.

• Vitamin C Form: L-Ascorbic Acid
• Concentration: 10%
• Rating: 4.2/5
• Reviews: 905+

7. Lakme 9 to 5 Vitamin C+ Serum

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Lakme 9 to 5 range offers workplace essentials for women, and their Vitamin C+ Serum is designed to refresh and brighten tired office skin. Enriched with 98% pure vitamin C, it tackles dullness, uneven tone, dark spots and signs of aging.

This lightweight serum gives an instant boost of radiance and over time, helps minimize pores, fine lines, wrinkles and acne marks. It has a pleasant citrusy smell and causes no breakouts or irritation.

Nearly 6,000 Amazon reviewers rate it 4/5 stars for the affordable pricing, noticeable results within a few uses and suitability for Indian skin. The pump dispenser maintains optimal potency.

Overall, this is an excellent budget vitamin C serum for daily use suitable for all skin types.

• Vitamin C Form: Pure Vitamin C
• Concentration: 98%
• Rating: 4/5
• Reviews: 5,950+

8. Khadi Essentials Vitamin C Serum

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Khadi Essentials is a herbal skincare brand that uses Ayurvedic ingredients in modern formulations. Their Vitamin C Serum combines the antioxidant power of vitamin C and Vitamin E with skin-loving botanical extracts.

Regular use helps improve uneven skin tone and reduces the appearance of pigmentation and dullness caused by pollution exposure. Skin looks brighter and more radiant.

The water-based serum has aRefreshing citrus scent and lightweight gel texture that absorbs quickly. Herbal ingredients like aloe vera soothe and nourish the skin.

Over 200 Amazon reviewers give it a 3.3/5 star rating for the noticeable improvement in skin tone and lack of irritation. The squeeze tube packaging maintains freshness.

This vegan and cruelty-free serum is a good natural option for daily vitamin C skin nourishment.

• Vitamin C Form: Vitamin C
• Concentration: Not specified
• Rating: 3.3/5
• Reviews: 4+

9. Pilgrim 20% Vitamin C Face Serum

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Pilgrim skin care products are formulated in South Korea and suitable for Indian skin. Their 20% Vitamin C Face Serum contains pure L-ascorbic acid stabilized in an oil base along with hyaluronic acid for extra hydration.

The oil base allows for deeper absorption while being non-greasy. Regular use combats signs of aging, evens out skin tone and texture, and prevents moisture loss. Skin looks plump, youthful and luminous.

This non-irritating serum is safe for all skin types. Nearly 2,500 Amazon users rate it 3.9/5 stars for the visible improvement in skin quality within weeks. The pump packaging maintains optimal freshness.

For soft, hydrated and dewy skin, Pilgrim’s oil-based Vitamin C Serum is a superb choice.

• Vitamin C Form: L-Ascorbic Acid
• Concentration: 10%
• Rating: 3.9/5
• Reviews: 2,481+

10. Derma Co 20% Vitamin C Serum

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Derma Co’s 20% Vitamin C Serum is formulated for those who want a higher strength antioxidant boost. With 20% pure and stable vitamin C, this advanced serum combats signs of aging and sun damage.

It helps fade stubborn dark spots, smooths fine lines and wrinkles, and improves uneven skin texture and tone. The water-light formula gets absorbed quickly without feeling sticky.

This dermatologist-tested serum is free of harmful chemicals and suitable for all skin types. Over 1,600 Amazon users rate it 3.9/5 stars for the noticeable improvement in their skin quality within a few weeks.

If you are looking to turbo-charge your vitamin C skincare routine, this high potency serum is an excellent option.

• Vitamin C Form: Pure Vitamin C
• Concentration: 20%
• Rating: 3.9/5
• Reviews: 1,644+

11. WOW Skin Science Vitamin C Serum

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WOW Skin Science is known for effective and affordable skincare formulations. Their 20% Vitamin C + 1% Ferulic Acid Serum is designed to tackle signs of aging like fine lines, dark spots and loss of firmness.

The extra high 20% vitamin C concentration provides intense brightening and collagen production benefits to reveal youthful and radiant skin. Ferulic acid enhances vitamin C’s potency and absorption.

Amazon reviews mention visible reduction in pigmentation, acne marks and deeper wrinkles within 2-3 weeks of daily usage. Over 17,000 reviews rate it 3.9/5 stars for the excellent quality and pricing.

The air-tight metallic pump packaging maintains optimal freshness. If you want serious anti-aging action, this serum delivers great results.

• Vitamin C Form: Vitamin C
• Concentration: 20%
• Rating: 3.9/5
• Reviews: 17,063+

12. mCaffeine Vitamin C Serum

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mCaffeine is an Indian skincare brand that uses caffeine as the hero ingredient along with other antioxidant-rich botanical actives.

Their 15% Vitamin C serum combines the brightening and collagen-boosting power of vitamin C with ferulic acid and vitamin E. With diligent use, the serum combats UV damage, fades spots and acne marks, and improves skin texture.

The lightweight serum absorbs quickly without greasiness. Amazon reviews mention visible improvement in just 2 weeks of regular use. Over 500 users rate it 4.3/5 stars for the results and value for money.

The pump dispenser maintains optimal freshness. If you love your coffee, this Caffeine-infused vitamin C serum is a must try!

• Vitamin C Form: L-Ascorbic Acid
• Concentration: 15%
• Rating: 4.3/5
• Reviews: 544+

13. St. Botanica Vitamin C Serum

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St. Botanica is a popular clean beauty brand in India. Their vitamin C serum combines 20% pure vitamin C with antioxidant vitamin E and hydrating hyaluronic acid.

Regular usage helps minimize signs of aging like wrinkles and fine lines. It also tackles uneven tone, dark spots, acne marks and sun damage for a youthful complexion.

The lightweight serum absorbs quickly without feeling sticky. It is free of parabens, sulfates, artificial colors and fragrances.

Over 750 Amazon reviewers rate it 3.8/5 stars for the visible improvement in their skin’s brightness, firmness and overall quality. The easy dispenser packaging maintains optimal vitamin C potency.

This vegan and cruelty-free serum is a great daily pick for all skin types.

• Vitamin C Form: Pure Vitamin C
• Concentration: 20%
• Rating: 3.8/5
• Reviews: 752+

14. Good Vibes Vitamin C Glow Serum

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Good Vibes offers cruelty-free skincare with thoughtfully formulated clean beauty products. Their Vitamin C Glow Serum combines 15% vitamin C with hyaluronic acid for extra hydration and glow.

Regular usage combats signs of aging, brightens dull uneven skin, minimizes pores, and improves skin texture. The serum has a lightweight gel texture and citrusy scent.

Over 400 Amazon reviewers give it a 4.2/5 star rating for the visible improvement in skin radiance, tone and texture within a few weeks. No irritation or breakouts either.

The airless pump packaging maintains optimal freshness. This clean, vegan formula effectively boosts glow without irritation at a budget-friendly price point.

• Vitamin C Form: Vitamin C
• Concentration: 15%
• Rating: 4.2/5
• Reviews: 407+

15. Minimalist 16% Vitamin C Serum

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Minimalist is an Indian skincare brand that offers high quality formulations at affordable pricing. Their 16% Vitamin C Serum contains pure and stabilized L-ascorbic acid along with hydrating hyaluronic acid.

The non-greasy serum absorbs quickly to deeply nourish skin. With consistent use, it tackles uneven skin tone, dullness, fine lines, wrinkles and sun damage. Skin looks firmer, brighter and youthfully radiant.

Hundreds of Amazon reviews mention the serum’s effectiveness in reducing acne scars, pigmentation and signs of aging within a few weeks. No irritation either.

The airless pump dispenser maintains optimal vitamin C potency. Overall, this is an excellent daily serum with proven ingredients at a wallet-friendly price.

• Vitamin C Form: L-Ascorbic Acid
• Concentration: 16%
• Rating: 4.1/5
• Reviews: 233+

Comparison Table for the Best Vitamin C Serums in India:

How to Choose Between Different Vitamin C Serums

With so many options, choosing the right vitamin C serum for your needs can be confusing. Here are some quick tips to select the best vitamin C serum for your skin type and concerns:

• Sensitive Skin: Opt for a lower 5-10% vitamin C concentration from a trusted brand. Avoid potential irritants like alcohol, fragrance and botanical extracts.
• Oily/Acne-prone Skin: Look for oil-free, non-comedogenic formulas with 10-15% vitamin C. Vitamin C has mild antimicrobial properties to help fight acne.
• Dry/Mature Skin: Go for a more emollient, creamy serum with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid. 10-15% vitamin C is ideal for anti-aging.
• Hyperpigmentation/Dullness: Choose a higher 15-20% vitamin C serum which offers more intense brightening and collagen boosting effects.
• Beginner: Start with a low 5-10% vitamin C serum and gradually move up to avoid irritation. Stick to reputable, transparency brands.
• Budget Buy: Many Indian brands like Plum, Pilgrim, Minimalist offer high quality vitamin C serums under Rs. 700-800 that deliver excellent results.

How to Use and Store Vitamin C Serum

To get the most out of your vitamin C serum, follow these simple usage and storage tips:

Application Tips

• Apply vitamin C serum after cleansing and toning, and before heavier moisturizers.
• Take 2-4 drops and gently pat onto face, neck and décolletage. Avoid rubbing hard.
• Vitamin C works best on clean bare skin. Wait 5-10 mins before applying other products.
• Apply vitamin C serum once daily in the AM for best results. PM use can be irritating for some skin types.
• Always do a patch test before full face application to check for potential irritation or allergic reactions.

Storage Tips

• Vitamin C breaks down quickly when exposed to air, light and heat. Store serum in a cool dark place like fridge.
• Keep vitamin C serum in the original packaging to limit air exposure. Use clean hands to dispense product.
• Avoid storing vitamin C serum in hot bathrooms as heat can degrade the ingredients.
• Look for opaque, air-tight packaging like dark glass bottles or pumps. Translucent plastic bottles allow air passage.
• Replace vitamin C serum within 3-4 months of opening for best results, since potency reduces over time.
• If serum ever turns yellowish brown, it means the vitamin C has oxidized. Discard such serums immediately.

Signs of Irritation

Stop usage and consult a dermat if you experience the following:

• Redness, dryness, itching, burning or stinging sensation after application
• Breakouts, acne or small bumps developing suddenly
• Increased sensitivity to sunlight after using vitamin C serum

FAQs about Vitamin C Serums

Q. Which brand vitamin C serum is best in India?

There are several excellent vitamin C serum brands available in India that formulate stable, effective vitamin C serums suitable for Indian skin conditions and concerns. Some of the top vitamin C serum brands in India include Minimalist, Plum, Dot & Key, Pilgrim, Derma Co, St.Botanica and The Ordinary.

These brands offer vitamin C serums with proven ingredients like L-ascorbic acid, vitamin E and ferulic acid in optimal concentrations ranging from 5-20%. The serums are packaged in air-tight opaque dispensers to maintain optimal potency and freshness. Users report visible improvement in skin tone, texture, pigmentation and signs of aging with regular usage. Many of these vitamin C serums have thousands of positive reviews and ratings on ecommerce sites. When selecting a vitamin C serum brand, look for reputation, transparency in labeling, formulation expertise and consumer feedback.

Q. Which brand of vitamin C serum is best?

Some of the most reputed vitamin C serum brands globally known for high quality and effective formulations include Skinceuticals, Drunk Elephant, Paula’s Choice, Klairs and Timeless. These brands offer vitamin C serums with research-backed vitamin C forms like L-ascorbic acid and ethyl ascorbic acid at optimal 15-20% concentrations. The serums feature additional antioxidants like vitamin E and ferulic acid for enhanced benefits. Many users mention visible improvement in hyperpigmentation, lines, firmness and brightness with regular usage. However, the pricing is at a premium range. In India, brands like Minimalist, Plum, DermaCo offer similar expert formulations at more affordable pricing. Ultimately, the ‘best’ vitamin C serum brand is one that uses proven ingredients, has transparency in labeling, positive user reviews and provides good value.

Q. Which is the best vitamin C serum for skin brightening?

For best skin brightening results, choose a vitamin C serum with pure L-ascorbic acid which is the most researched form of topical vitamin C with proven efficacy on pigmentation and dullness. Look for serums with higher 15-20% vitamin C concentration along with brightening boosters like vitamin E, ferulic acid, niacinamide and AHAs. Some top options are:

• Derma Co 20% Vitamin C Serum
• Minimalist 10% Vitamin C Serum
• Plum 15% Vitamin C Serum
• St. Botanica 20% Vitamin C Serum

These serums contain the most bioactive form of vitamin C at optimal brightening concentrations. They fade pigmentation and even out skin tone with regular usage as reported by numerous users. Using broad spectrum sunscreen is a must for maximizing brightening when using vitamin C serums.

Q. Is vitamin C serum good everyday?

Yes, vitamin C serum can be used safely everyday. In fact, daily use is recommended to get the best benefits from vitamin C for your skin. When used consistently, vitamin C tackles signs of aging, evens skin tone, reduces pigmentation, boosts collagen production and offers photo-protection.

However, those with very sensitive skin should use vitamin C serum 2-3 times a week initially before increasing frequency. Start with a lower 5% concentration and gradually build up tolerance. Using only at night is also an option if AM application causes irritation. As with any new product, do a patch test first to check for allergic reactions or sensitivity. Maintain optimal purity and potency of vitamin C serum by storing it properly.

Q. How long does it take for vitamin C serum to show results?

Most users see some visible difference in brightness and skin tone within 2-4 weeks of daily vitamin C serum usage. However, it takes about 3-6 months of continued use for more significant anti-aging effects like fading stubborn pigmentation, smoothing wrinkles and increasing firmness. Have realistic expectations and be diligent with daily application.

Q. Can vitamin C serum be used with other actives like retinol or AHAs?

Yes, vitamin C plays well with most other skincare actives. However, do not use vitamin C serum at the same time as retinols or benzoyl peroxide, since the combination can be irritating for some skin types. The ideal way is to use vitamin C in the AM and retinol/AHA/BHA in the PM routine with a gap of 30 mins between application of the two actives. Always start slowly and look out for signs of sensitivity.

Q. Does vitamin C serum work for acne and acne scars?

Thanks to its antioxidant properties, vitamin C serums can help soothe inflammation, calm breakouts and reduce post-acne marks. Look for oil-free formulas with 10-15% vitamin C concentration suitable for oily, acne-prone skin. However, vitamin C isn’t a treatment for acne itself and should be used along with other acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid, tea tree oil, niacinamide etc.

Q. Is it okay to use vitamin C with vitamin A (retinol) together?

It is not recommended to layer vitamin C serum with prescription strength vitamin A (retinoids) as this combination can be highly irritating for the skin. However, over the counter vitamin A derivatives like retinols and retinaldehyde in optimal concentrations can be used together by gradually building up tolerance. Use vitamin C in AM and retinol in PM routine with a 30 mins gap. Reduce frequency if any irritation occurs.

Q. Does vitamin C work for pigmentation and melasma?

Yes, vitamin C is one of the most researched ingredients for reducing pigmentation and melasma. By inhibiting melanin production, vitamin C fades dark spots, acne marks and stubborn melasma patches. Look for higher 15-20% vitamin C serums for pigmentation. However, sun protection is a must as melasma can worsen with sun exposure. Consult a dermat if melasma does not improve.

In summary, vitamin C serums are a skincare superhero for combating various signs of aging, dullness and pigmentation. When used correctly, quality vitamin C serums visibly improve skin radiance, tone and texture. By providing an overview of the top serums in India along with tips on usage and common FAQs, this guide aims to help you select your ideal match! Remember to be diligent with application and sun protection to reveal your best glowing complexion.