Review and comparison of vitamin C serums used in the last two and a half years. DIY: Vitamin C Facial Serum Recipe
You once asked me to recommend the best iHerb cosmetics. I will start with the most active cosmetics, these are, of course, serums and serums. In this post, I have selected the best face serums in different directions. The result is a cheat sheet for all skin types, in which you will find your best serum!
Of course, each of us has our own preferences, and face serums are different, but with such a huge selection, it is very important not just to try everything in a row, but to find your best face products!
There may be several, I prefer to have two or three at the same time. I usually recommend at least two serums: hyaluronic and second skin problem.
Today I will write about the best face serums by making a selection from the iHerb website according to the composition of the products that I liked the most with their active ingredients.
In the meantime, we will focus only on serums as special cosmetics, which have long become the best way to bring active substances to the skin, thanks to their liquid texture, fast absorption and a bunch of useful substances! And by the way, in the summer, it is not necessary to use a cream at all, sometimes only serum is enough! =)
I presented my best face serums in the form of such a cheat sheet. So let's go!
The Best Vitamin C Facial Serums
Serum with vitamin C
in a stable form of sodium ascorbyl phosphate, with hyaluronic and ferulic acid. Ferulic acid has twice the protective effect against UV rays than vitamin C. Konjac glucomannan is a plant-based polymer that creates a thin protective film on the skin to help retain moisture in the skin.
Vitamin C in the form of ascorbyl phosphate is used in cosmetics to reduce wrinkles, brighten the complexion, protect the deep layers of the skin from free radicals, and stimulate collagen synthesis in the deep layers of the skin.
- Mad Hippie Skin Care Products, Vitamin C Serum, 8 Actives, 30 ml - $27.19
Brightening Serum with turmeric extract and a stable form of vitamin C, plus vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, grape polyphenols and green tea extract, a very good composition for the money, it is extremely difficult to find similar ones here, so that there are so many benefits at once to improve complexion and accelerate collagen synthesis in the skin.
Turmeric extract has powerful antioxidant properties and inhibits the formation of melanin, protecting the skin from the appearance of age spots.
Serum in the form of capsules with two stable forms of vitamin C, tomato lycopene and ceramides. It evens out the complexion and makes the skin rested and toned. I have already started using it, I really, really like it, it does not cause any irritation even on sensitive skin. But they do not give discounts, which is a pity!
- AnneMarie Borlind, Intensive Care Capsules, 60 Capsules - $54
The best face serums with vitamin A
New serumwith the most active form of vitamin A– Retinyl Retinoate , which is twice as active as retinol, has a low irritant factor (suitable for sensitive skin) and is highly stable to sunlight compared to other forms of vitamin A such as retinol and retinaldehyde.
biological retinyl retinoate is more active than retinol(and maybe even more retinaldehyde) but on the other hand it has a milder effect of increasing the level of retinoic acid in the skin (to which it is converted), which leads to less irritation!
In research retinyl retinoate showed a high ability in improving wrinkles, skin roughness and smoothing its microrelief.
The serum is used strictly at night, in addition to this component, it contains green coffee extract, which enhances collagen synthesis and has an antioxidant effect, as well as hyaluronic and alpha-lipoic acid.
- Mad Hippie Skin Care Products, Vitamin A Serum, 30 ml – $26.39
Cream with retinol , which is very difficult to buy (it is always out of stock), but to which all iherbnut users of the Runet sing their enthusiasm. Contains 1% retinol, lecithin and vitamin D, which has anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting effects - to reduce skin's reaction to retinol.
Apply strictly at night, it is better to start every 2-3 days. Now it is on sale and with a 20% discount, I’m not sure if it’s for a long time!
- Life Flo Health, Retinol A 1%, Advanced Revitalization Cream, 50 ml- $14.99
Antioxidant Facial Serums
Antioxidant serum for dry and sensitive skin contains rose hydrosol and biosaccharides, which give a silky feeling and, thanks to a thin breathable film, protect the skin from moisture loss. It contains antioxidant oils of rose mosquito and pomegranate seeds, extracts of white tea and rooibos, a stable form of vitamin C in the form of magnesium ascorbyl phosphate.
An anti-inflammatory complex based on boswellin, magnolia bark and bisabolol has been added to soften and soothe the skin. Essential oils of geranium and rose gently normalize hormonal levels, improving the skin through aroma))
- Andalou Naturals, Absolute Serum, 1000 Roses, Sensitive, 30 ml - $19.96
Cranberry Juice Antioxidant Serum , resveratrol, coenzyme Q10 and a stable form of vitamin C as magnesium ascorbyl phosphate. Also in the composition of hyaluronic acid, stem cells of apple and grapes, green tea extract. Improves skin tone and texture, protects from the environment
- Andalou Naturals, Revitalize Serum, Age Defying, 32 ml - $19.96
Jason Serum with Vitamin C Form in the form of calcium ascorbate, which is called Ester-C. Calcium ascorbate works primarily as an antioxidant, protecting against free radicals and environmental pollution. In addition to it, the composition contains algae polysaccharides (form the thinnest moisturizing network on the skin), hyaluronic and alpha-lipoic acid, green tea extract.
- Jason Natural, C-Effects, Hyper-C Serum, Anti-Aging Daily Spot Treatment, 30 ml - $28.45
Brightening and whitening face serums
with turmeric extract and a stable form of vitamin C, plus vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, grape polyphenols and green tea extract, great value for money! And turmeric extract is a patented supplement that inhibits melanin synthesis and evens out skin tone. But do not be afraid - the serum will not make a geisha out of you, but it will even out skin tone and its brightness.
- Andalou Naturals, Enlighten Serum, Turmeric + C, Brightening, 32 ml - $19.96
A brightening & antioxidant serum with a very good modern composition - stable vitamin C (sodium ascorbyl phosphate), squalane, oryzanol and a patented Swiss watercress asset rich in sulforaphane. It inhibits the synthesis of melanin by neutralizing active oxygen and suppressing the production of a hormone that stimulates pigmentation. Serum reduces the effects of daytime stress, evens out skin tone and brightens age spots.
- AnneMarie Borlind, Skin Whitening Fluid, 50 ml – $46.80
Acid face serums
A brightening & exfoliating serum with glycolic acid, brightening active complex, niacinamide, vitamin B5 and Swiss apple cell culture extract, it is used strictly at night and is suitable even for sensitive skin. Alpine herbs inhibit melanin production, acids gently exfoliate and help other assets work deeper into the skin. Apply courses and autumn-winter is the perfect time for this!
- Mad Hippie Skin Care Products, Exfoliating Serum, 30 ml - $29.99
Best Ceramide Serums
Moisturizing & Repairing Serum a protects against free radicals and restores the skin barrier, giving the effect of "happy and rested" skin. In the composition, ceramides 3 and 6, sodium ascorbyl phosphate, hyaluronic acid and two active components from Italian immortelle and sea kritmum. Apply like a second skin - immediately after removing makeup or washing your face.
- AnneMarie Borlind, Naturesome, Nature Effect Fluid, 50 ml — $64.80
Serum with ceramides necessary for the rapid recovery of stressed and damaged skin that is losing moisture. When applied to the surface, ceramides help bind moisture in the epidermis and strengthen the skin's barrier function against invading environmental pollutants.
The serum is also suitable for "aging" skin 30+)) since it contains a protein extract of yeast cells, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate and two forms of vitamin E - together they reduce the severity of wrinkles and increase its hydration.
- AnneMarie Borlind, Ceramide Vital Fluid, 50 ml – $61.20
Firming and lifting serums
Firming Gel Serum not only visibly tightens and refines the contours of the face, but also cares for the skin - contains a stable form of vitamin C (magnesium ascorbyl phosphate) and exotic extracts of mushrooms (polysaccharides), baobab and walnut. Suitable for rosacea - minimizes damaged capillaries and helps prevent new damage.
When applied, polysaccharides form an elastic imperceptible film that visually tightens and gives a lifting effect. And therefore, you need to apply it on the entire surface of the face - to form the same lifting effect.
- AnneMarie Borlind, Facial Firming Gel, 50 ml – $39.60
Weleda Firming Serum does not give an instant tightening effect, but strengthens the skin, preventing age-related sagging and reducing power. Dermatological tests have shown that wrinkle relief is reduced by 29% (after 28 days of use) and skin hydration is increased by 39% (measured with a corneometer 30 minutes after application).
The serum contains pomegranate juice and millet extract, a resistant plant that can bear fruit in excessively cold and dry areas. Millet extract contains valuable linoleic acid, phytosterols, squalene and regenerating vitamin E, as well as natural silicic acid, which promotes the formation of collagen and elastin in the skin.
- Weleda, Pomegranate Firming Serum, 1.0 fl oz (30 ml) — $34.56
Serums and serums for eyelids
Eye Radiance Serum with an excellent composition for little money - revitalizes, restores and makes the look ″rested and fresh″. In the composition of cellular extracts of apple and grapes, green tea and cucumber complexes (relieve puffiness from the eyelids), goji berry glycopeptides (Instalift™ Goji active complex) - berry polysaccharides form a rigid network that provides support against skin sagging and gives a visible lifting effect.
A whole bunch of antioxidants protect delicate skin from free radicals, vitamin C in the form of magnesium ascorbyl phosphate increases collagen synthesis, and caffeine improves microcirculation, relieves puffiness and tones (lymphatic drainage effect).
- Andalou Naturals, Luminous Eye Serum, Brightening, 18 ml - $ 16.00
Lifting Eye Serum with the intriguing name dermal filler. It does not fill wrinkles like silicone-based fillers do, but it tightens the skin and straightens wrinkles, improving skin microrelief. There are a lot of active substances in the composition, I’ll tell you about the Longevicell component - the patented myrtle extract is rich in oligogalacturanans (effective cell regenerators, inhibit glycation and aging of collagen fibers) and polysaccharides (improve skin microrelief and elasticity).
Serum should be applied to the area around the eyes, wrinkles around the mouth and nasolabial folds. Best of all in this sequence - first filler, then moisturizer.
- Andalou Naturals, Deep Wrinkle Dermal Filler, Age Defying - $16.00
Oil serums, facial oils
Firming Facial Serum suitable for all skin types and all areas of the body)) Rich in antioxidant oils, protects the skin from free radicals, revitalizes the complexion and helps reduce scars.
From this article you will learn:
- How does vitamin C work on the skin of the face,
- how to choose the right cosmetics with vitamin C,
- anti-wrinkle serum and cream with vitamin C - rating 2020.
Everyone knows that vitamin C is an excellent antioxidant and protects the skin from the negative effects of free radicals - the harmful by-products of sunlight, smoke and other pollution that lead to premature aging of the skin and the destruction of collagen in it.
However, the fact that vitamin C can affect the level of collagen synthesis in the skin has become known only recently. The first serious studies in this direction were carried out only in 2001. The research results were so encouraging that manufacturers of anti-aging cosmetics began to actively develop and market various creams and serums with vitamin C.
As expected, the wave of demand for such cosmetics has led to too many vitamin C cosmetics on the market, most of which turn out to be ineffective when tested. Why it depends, and how to choose a quality serum or cream with vitamin C - this article will tell you.
Vitamin C for skin: properties
- reduces damage to cells by ultraviolet radiation,
- increases the effectiveness of sunscreens,
- has antioxidant properties
- reduces pigmentation and melasma,
- plays an important role in the synthesis of collagen, and as a result - reduces the appearance of wrinkles,
- promotes the healing process of wounds, as well as improves the appearance of scars and scars.
Effect of Vitamin C on Collagen Synthesis - Clinical Studies
Below we present some of the most serious studies that can really be trusted, because. the evaluation of their results was carried out not only by visual comparison of the skin condition before and after, but also using the only objective method - taking skin samples before and after the study and their subsequent comparison.
1) This study was carried out in 2001. His goal was to elucidate the role of vitamin C in collagen synthesis. Tissue samples have shown that vitamin C does stimulate the production of collagen types 1 and 3 in the dermal layer of the skin.
Study published in Journal of Investigative Dermatology (Nusgens, B. V., Humbert, P., Rougier, A. et al. (2001) Topically applied Vitamin C enhances the Mrna levels of collagens I and III, their processing enzymes and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase 1 in the human dermis, Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 116, 103-107.)
2) In 2002, a study was conducted where, for 12 weeks, subjects treated their facial skin with vitamin C products: either 10% aqueous ascorbic acid or 7% tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate (this is a fat-soluble form of vitamin C).
Comparison of histological skin samples (taken from the subjects before and after the study) showed that the use of vitamin C stimulates the repair of skin cells damaged by sun exposure, and also reduces the appearance of wrinkles by stimulating the formation of new collagen in the skin (link to the study - http://www. .ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11896774).
3) In 2007, a study was published in which 4025 women aged 40 to 75 took part. The results of the study showed that the use of vitamin C on the skin reduced the appearance of wrinkles and gave the skin a more hydrated appearance. The study was published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (Cosgrove, M. "Dietary nutrient intakes and skin-aging appearance among middle-aged American women" 2007).
How to choose the right cosmetics with vitamin C -
Many users of vitamin C products complain that they did not notice positive changes in the skin, even after long-term use. When analyzing the composition of such funds, it becomes clear why most of them cannot be effective at all a priori. Below, we have listed the important points to look out for when choosing creams and serums with vitamin C…
1. Form of Vitamin C -
The term "vitamin C" is a collective term and does not refer to a specific compound. There are many derivatives of vitamin C, but the only form of vitamin C that matters to the body is L-ascorbic acid (LAA). Only this form is able to interact with skin cells, penetrate into the deep layers of the dermis and stimulate the production of collagen.
Other derivatives of vitamin C are precursors of L-ascorbic acid, i. they turn into it after being applied to the skin - as a result of cycles of chemical reactions. Below we will analyze in detail all the main forms of vitamin C that are used in anti-aging cosmetics.
- L-ascorbic acid
(LAA)-
a water-soluble form of vitamin C that does not need to be transformed into anything in order to begin to act on skin cells. This seems to be a plus, but in fact, L-ascorbic acid is very unstable and is easily destroyed upon contact with air, light, and even from time to time.Thus, studies have shown that since the production of a jar of cosmetics based on L-ascorbic acid, from 8 to 15% of the active substance is spontaneously destroyed in it every month. And the same amount is destroyed by contact with air and light - when opening the package and in the process of applying the product to the skin. Therefore, some manufacturers of quality cosmetics have tried to stabilize L-ascorbic acid so that it does not break down so intensively.
For this, ferulic acid and alpha-tocopherol (vitamin E) were added to the components of the serums. these components significantly slow down the oxidation of L-ascorbic acid and, in addition, have a positive effect on the skin. But in the composition of creams, L-ascorbic acid is the most stable in the presence of palmitic acid and glycerin. In cheaper products, sodium metabisulfite (preservative) can also be found as a stabilizer.
Important : some cosmetics manufacturers claim that L-ascorbic acid is not afraid of oxidation for the reason that from the oxidized state (dehydro-ascorbic acid) it can again transform into L-ascorbic acid. The deception here is that this reaction can only occur in the bloodstream inside red blood cells under the influence of the enzyme dehydro-ascorbin reductase.
But this has to do with vitamin C, which enters the body either through the digestive tract or by injection. But in the skin (after applying vitamin C products to it), this mechanism of reverse transformation is simply absent.
- Sodium or magnesium L-ascorbyl phosphate
–
these are water-soluble forms of vitamin C. Sodium ascorbyl phosphate is referred to as "sodium ascorbyl phosphate" (SAP) in import instructions, and magnesium ascorbyl phosphate as "magnesium ascorbyl phosphate" (MAP). These forms of vitamin C are converted to pure L-ascorbic acid in the skin upon application.SAP and MAP are currently the most stable forms of vitamin C, and they also cause little to no skin irritation. In addition, it is believed that they penetrate the skin surface better than L-ascorbic acid (even at low concentrations), and also have a higher activity in relation to collagen synthesis.
- Ascorbyl palmitate
–
it is a fat-soluble form of vitamin C. It does not irritate the skin and is more stable than L-ascorbic acid. In addition, ascorbyl palmitate also has excellent antioxidant properties, and also protects the skin well from ultraviolet radiation.However, this is where its advantages end. This cheap ingredient can only be found in cheap skin care products. ascorbyl palmitate does not penetrate deep into the skin, and does not affect collagen synthesis at all. It is optimal to use only for the prevention of photoaging and as increased protection against ultraviolet radiation along with.
- Sodium ascorbate
–
it is a water-soluble form of vitamin C. It is a stable compound, but, like ascorbyl palmitate, it does not affect collagen synthesis and does not have a pronounced pharmacological activity. It can be found in the composition of cheap cosmetics with vitamin C.
Summary : thus, in any case, it is best to use products containing sodium ascorbyl phosphate (SAP) or magnesium ascorbyl phosphate (MAP). As for L-ascorbic acid, it is necessary to use only its stabilized forms, and look for cosmetics based on it with a minimum period from the moment of its production (website).
2. The concentration of vitamin C in anti-aging cosmetics -
If you want to increase the synthesis of collagen and elastin in the skin or reduce age spots, you need a high concentration of vitamin C. But at the same time, high concentrations cause severe irritation and redness of the skin. For example, 20% L-ascorbic acid - reviews noted that a solution of such a concentration is almost guaranteed to cause a chemical burn of the skin.
With the beginning of the use of vitamin C, the skin at first reacts very actively to it, becoming red, irritated, it can even dry and peel off. Sometimes reviews even noted that new wrinkles appeared due to the drying effect of high concentrations of vitamin C. Therefore, in parallel with serums, it is advisable to use moisturizing creams, for example, with low molecular weight hyaluronic acid.
So what concentration causes the least side effects and most effectively fights skin aging problems? The answer depends on the form of vitamin C in the product...
- Means with L-ascorbic acid
–
The optimal working concentration of L-ascorbic acid in cosmetics is 15%. However, at such concentrations, it is very aggressive and highly irritating to the skin. Therefore, products based on it are generally not suitable for people with dry or sensitive skin.In addition, you should not immediately start using 15% concentration, because. in this case, you are guaranteed to get severe skin irritation. It is optimal to start with 5% of funds, gradually moving to 10% and then stop at 15% concentration. Better yet, avoid products with L-ascorbic acid in the first 1-2 months, and use forms of sodium or magnesium ascorbyl phosphate at a concentration of 3-5% to allow the skin to get used to it.
- Products with sodium or magnesium ascorbyl phosphate
–
on the market you can find products containing sodium or magnesium ascorbyl phosphate - from 1 to 20%. It should be noted that only rare manufacturers use these forms of vitamin C, because. their cost is about 100 times higher than the cost of L-ascorbic acid.When choosing a concentration, it must be taken into account that these forms of vitamin C, even at a lower concentration, have the same activity and effectiveness as L-ascorbic acid at higher concentrations. By the way, at the same time, they also cause significantly less skin irritation, and do not require prior use of lower concentrations for skin addiction.
The optimal working concentration of SAP or MAP in cosmetics is 8-10%. Some manufacturers even release products with 20% concentration, but this is more of a marketing ploy designed to instill the principle "the greater the concentration, the better." However, this is not always true.
3. The pH level in cosmetics with vitamin C -
This question is VERY important if you have chosen products based on L-ascorbic acid. The pH level in a cosmetic product indicates its acidity. Creams and serums with L-ascorbic acid should have a pH of no more than 3.5. The ideal pH level is between 2.0 and 3.0. Try to choose only those products where the manufacturer indicated the pH.
A pH of more than 3.5 will mean the following: firstly, the acid in the composition of the product will quickly break down, and secondly, it simply will not penetrate the skin, but will only cause severe irritation of its surface.
Important : as for products based on sodium or magnesium ascorbyl phosphates (SAP and MAP), the problem of acidity is not relevant for them. For products with these ingredients, it is not necessary to know the pH of the product. But it is best if the products based on them have a neutral pH of 5.0 to 7.0, which is ideal for dry and sensitive skin.
4. Which is better - serum or cream with vitamin C
Vitamin C face cream can be based on both fat-soluble forms of vitamin C (for example, ascorbyl palmitate) and water-soluble forms. The latter is possible through the use of emulsifiers. Fat-soluble forms of vitamin C are excellent antioxidants that protect the skin from harmful external influences, but they will not reduce the depth of wrinkles or increase skin firmness.
Therefore, if you want to reduce wrinkles and tighten the skin - the cream should be based on water-soluble forms of vitamin C - such as L-ascorbic acid, and magnesium or sodium ascorbyl phosphate. Moreover, in the first case, the cream must necessarily have an acidic pH of 2.0-3.0, and an acid concentration of 15% (but such a cream is not suitable for people with dry and sensitive skin).
For a cream based on magnesium or sodium ascorbyl phosphate pH is not important, but the desired concentration should be in the region of 8-10%. If the creams meet these conditions, they will be quite effective. Creams with this form of vitamin C are ideal for dry and sensitive skin.
Serum with vitamin C should only be based on the water-soluble forms of this vitamin listed above (with the exception of sodium ascorbate, which is not a very good component). Serums are more suitable for normal to oily skin. They are easier to apply and absorb faster than creams. It is believed that they are still more effective at the same concentrations of active ingredients as creams.
5. Additional ingredients in the composition of the product -
Vitamin C on its own is excellent at fighting signs of skin aging, but in combination with other components, you can get even better results. Some ingredients enhance each other's action and achieve better effects than individually.
- ferulic acid –
a strong antioxidant that protects the skin from UV rays, reduces pigmentation, evens out the skin texture, stabilizes L-ascorbic acid, preventing it from breaking down, and also increases its activity.
- –
a strong antioxidant, has a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect, stabilizes L-ascorbic acid, preventing it from being destroyed.
- Hyaluronic acid –
depending on the composition of the product (high- or low-molecular) - it can either only moisturize the surface layers of the skin, or moisturize the skin to the full depth + help increase collagen synthesis.
- Aloe Vera, Green Tea Extract –
help relieve irritation, soothe sensitive skin, moisturize dry skin.
6. Avoid Colored Vitamin C Foods
Trying to buy only transparent serums, creams should be only white. Any initial coloring of the product by the manufacturer is most likely intended to hide signs of vitamin C oxidation, i.e. its destruction.
Important: yellowness or brown shades are an indicator of vitamin C oxidation, and hence its inefficiency. But also keep in mind that the very initial stages of oxidation do not change the color of the product, so you cannot be completely sure that a white or transparent color guarantees 100% vitamin C activity.
There are also dishonest manufacturers who add special chemicals to their products that prevent oxidized vitamin C from changing the color of the product. Therefore, they may even sell a product that is known to be oxidized with no visible signs of oxidation.
7. Packaging and storage -
All cosmetic products with vitamin C are particularly sensitive to light and air. Therefore, improper storage very quickly leads to oxidation and a decrease in the activity of vitamin C. Try to choose only those products that have opaque or semi-transparent packaging, and ideally are equipped with pumps or dispensers that prevent air from entering the product.
Serums are often sold in amber or blue bottles with special dosing pipettes. It is believed that brown, orange or blue glass transmits less light and retains the activity of the product. When storing vitamin C products, try to keep them away from light sources, i.e. it is best to hide them in a dark closet.
Keep in mind that even stable forms of vitamin C still oxidize over time and stop working. Therefore, when buying a product, be sure to check the expiration date of the purchased cream or serum. The less time has passed since the production date, the better. After opening the funds, it will need to be used within a period of no more than 6 months.
8. The cost of creams and serums with vitamin C -
The production of creams and serums with stabilized L-ascorbic acid, sodium or magnesium ascorbyl phosphate is quite expensive. Therefore, creams and serums based on them will not be cheap. Products with sodium ascorbate or ascorbyl palmitate are much cheaper, but they will no longer stimulate collagen synthesis.
You can often find outright deception. So in pharmacies you can find inexpensive creams and serums with vitamin C for the face, whose manufacturers promise to solve all the problems of aging skin for little money. The packaging usually says in big letters: 20% vitamin C + 10% hyaluronic acid + many additional active ingredients. But in fact, it turns out that such means do not work, because. contain a form of vitamin C in the form of such cheap components as sodium ascorbate or ascorbyl palmitate, or unstabilized L-ascorbic acid.
A priori, inexpensive products cannot contain high-quality technological components ... Keep in mind that a high-quality cream or serum with vitamin C for the face simply cannot cost less than $ 20-25. Funds of reputable manufacturers cost on average from $40 to $70, top manufacturers - about $100.
The best cosmetic products with vitamin C - ranking 2020
Based on the analysis of the above criteria, we have compiled a ranking of the best vitamin C products, which you can find below. Some of them can only be bought in online stores like Amazon and Ebay, some in branded Russian online stores, and only the products of one company are widely represented in pharmacies.
1. Serumtologie ® "C serum 22"
The active substance is sodium ascorbyl phosphate (SAP) at a concentration of 22%, pH level is 6.5. Additionally, the serum contains 5% hyaluronic acid, 1% ferulic acid, 1% vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol), as well as organic extracts of centella asiatica, aloe vera and other plants.
The serum is suitable for all skin types. This serum will cause less skin irritation than the next two products. It moisturizes the skin well due to the content of hyaluronic acid and aloe vera. Does not contain parabens, sulfates and other bad preservatives. The cost is only $ 35 for a bottle of 34 ml. Unfortunately, you can only buy in online stores Amazon, Ebay ...
2. SkinCeuticals "CE Ferulic" ®
ScinCeuticals has a patent for the combination of L-ascorbic acid with alpha-tocopherol (vitamin E) and ferulic acid. The price in the Russian online store ScinCeuticals is from 9,500 rubles for a 30 ml bottle, which will last you at least 3-4 months.
3. SkinCeuticals® «Phloretin CF GEL»
SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF GEL Antioxidant Gel contains pure L-ascorbic acid 10%, ferulic acid and phloretin. This gel is made using the "serum in gel" technology, which allows you to protect the active ingredients from decomposition as much as possible (when exposed to light and air). This gel also allows you to protect the skin from UV and IRA radiation.
The cost is from 10,500 rubles per bottle of 30 ml (with dispenser). You can buy in the branded Russian online store of the manufacturer. There is also an analogue of this gel specifically for the skin around the eyes - “AOX + EYE GEL”, only the dosage of L-ascorbic acid will be 5% there (a 15 ml bottle with a dispenser will cost you 5,600 rubles).
The cosmetics of the French company La Roche-Posay is widely represented in pharmacies throughout Russia, but you can also buy it in the company's Russian online store. Redermic C10 cream contains 10% pure vitamin C in its most active stable form, hyaluronic acid and vitamin E. The cost of this product will be about 2600 rubles.
In addition to a cream with a 10% concentration of vitamin C, La Roche-Posay produces Redermic C cream (with 5% ascorbic acid), as well as Redermic C YEUX (5% cream for the skin around the eyes). The cost of these products will be 2400 and 1900 rubles, respectively.
The active substance is L-ascorbic acid in 15% concentration. The pH level is 3.0. Additionally, the serum contains vitamin E - 1%, ferulic acid 0.5%, panthenol and sodium hyaluronate. The price on the Internet is $ 39 for a bottle of 30 ml. Unfortunately, you can only buy online from Amazon and Ebay.
Skin solutions is a complete analogue of the ScinCeuticals product both in the composition of active ingredients and in their percentage concentration, but at a more affordable price (the product is manufactured in accordance with a patent). The serum is suitable for oily and normal skin. We hope that our article: Vitamin C for face reviews - turned out to be useful to you!
Renewing serum promotes cell regeneration, has a lifting effect, gives skin elasticity, improves blood circulation, actively moisturizes dry skin, brightens pigmentation, prevents aging and has a calming effect. The product contains 82% avocado extract, natural vitamin E and natural moisturizing oils of sweet almond, peanut, sunflower seed, olive and coconut. Avocado extract contains proteins, minerals, vitamins C and E, fatty acids, carotenoids and squalene. Due to the content of active ingredients, it contributes to the rapid restoration of the surface layer of the skin, its elasticity, normalization of intracellular processes, smoothing wrinkles, prevents peeling, improves complexion, strengthens the protective mechanisms of the skin and slows down the process of premature aging. Vitamin E (tocopherol), which is part of the serum, strengthens the protective functions of the skin, intensively moisturizes and prevents moisture loss, promotes rapid healing, increases elasticity and facilitates the penetration of useful components and vitamins into the deeper layers of the skin. Sweet almond oil contains 65-83% monounsaturated oleic acid, 16-25% polyunsaturated linoleic acid, not a small amount of vitamins (E, A, F, and B vitamins), carotenes, bioflavonoids and other skin-friendly components. Due to the content of a high percentage of vitamin E, almond oil slows down the aging process of the skin, protects it from harmful ultraviolet radiation, has a nourishing and softening effect. It also helps to improve complexion, smoothes the skin and smoothes shallow wrinkles.
Peanut oil contains vitamins A, B, E, PP, palmitic, stearic and lignoceric acids. Allows you to give smoothness to the skin, soften, moisturize, and saturate it with essential nutrients, strengthen the walls of blood vessels, prevent the formation of free radicals, smooth out shallow wrinkles on the face and prevent the first signs of skin aging, has the ability to retain moisture in the skin cells, protecting the skin of the face from withering, hypersensitivity and various inflammations.
Sunflower seed oil contains vitamins A, D, group B and vitamin E, vegetable carbohydrates, proteins, minerals and tannins, lecithin. The components of the oil promote the regeneration of skin cells, increase the elasticity of blood vessels, nourish and moisturize.
Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, contains flavonoids, carotene, tocopherols, phospholipids and chlorophyll, a complex of vitamins A, C, D, E, F, K, vitamins of group B. The oil deeply moisturizes and softens the skin, normalizes oxygen metabolism and nutrition of skin cells , prevents aging and withering of the skin, smoothes and makes it more elastic, protects the skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation, neutralizes the action of free radicals.
Coconut oil consists of lauric, capric, caprylic, myristic and palmitic acids, polyphenols, vitamin E, vitamin K and minerals. The oil has nourishing, softening and moisturizing properties, eliminates dryness and flaking of the skin, protects it from roughness and cracking, helps to smooth the skin, improves the overall tone, firmness and elasticity of the skin. TIPS FOR USE
In order to draw the serum into the pipette, it is necessary to lift the cap with the pipette to allow air to enter the vial. When closed, it will be difficult to draw serum into a pipette due to the high viscosity of the liquid. If you are using White Vita C Serum, it is recommended that you use this serum with Manyo Factory Skin Renew Vita E Ampoule for maximum results.
Skin Renew Vita E Ampoule contains vitamin E, which promotes cell regeneration, has a lifting effect, gives skin elasticity, improves blood circulation, actively moisturizes dry skin, lightens freckles and other pigmented rashes.
Vitamin C and vitamin E work by complementing each other's action. Vitamin C converts vitamin E (tocopherol) into an active antioxidant form, i.e. vitamin C stabilizes vitamin E, which is easily destroyed, and vitamin E enhances the antioxidant effect of vitamin C. SKIN RENEW VITA E + WHITE VITA C IS MAXIMUM PROTECTION, EFFECTIVE WHITENING, BRIGHT AND HEALTHY SKIN! How to use: Apply a small amount of White Vita C serum to cleansed facial skin after using the tonic, with gentle massaging movements. Pay attention to problem areas (freckles, age spots, post-acne spots, etc.) Then apply Skin Renew Vita E with gentle massaging movements. Both products are recommended to be used in the morning and evening. When using these products, be sure to apply sunscreen during the daytime, regardless of weather conditions and the amount of time you spend outdoors. Ingredients: Avocado Fruit Extract, Glycerin, Propanediol, Nicotinamide, Sorbitan Olivate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cetearyl Olivate, Isoamyl Laurate, Tocopherol, Panthenol, Cetyl Palmitate, Sorbitan Palmitate, Squalane, Sunflower Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Coconut Oil, Ecklonium Cava Extract, Extract mung bean, peanut oil, olive oil, glyceryl caprylate, olive oil, propaneliol dicaprylate, licorice extract, prickly pear extract, persimmon extract, chestnut extract, green tea extract, betaine, beta-glucan, trehalose, zanthoxylum pepper extract, lumbago extract, usnea extract, vanilla oil, adenosine.
Distributed on the hand. 
After a few seconds: 
The serum was absorbed without residue. Her face is very tender, velvety, fresh. After a month of use, I noticed that the overall appearance of the skin has improved. I was very satisfied
serum composition
Price: 570 rubles
Rating: definitely 5+
But there is another true friend who helps my skin at night.
The Body Shop Vitamin E Nourishing night cream. Nourishing Night Cream Vitamin E
Expanded opinion: This cream comes in a plastic round jar, like most creams. Which is not very convenient and hygienic. We have to climb there with a spatula for creams. The consistency of the cream is thick, as a rule, all night creams are like that. White. Volume: 50 ml.
The aroma, unlike serum, is more pleasant. Subtle rose scent.
Easy to apply. Absorbs much longer than serum.
Inflicted: 
Partially distributed to show the texture of the cream: 
What we get after a while, distributing the cream to the end: 
There is no oily film on the face. To the touch the skin is very pleasant, velvety. But most of all I liked the feeling in the morning
Soft, delicate skin with a slight glow. No cream has ever had such an effect.
Price: 550 rubles.
Score: 5
I have been using the cream as well as the serum for about a month, and in general I can say that both of them cope with their functions with a bang! I noticed that the complexion improved, dryness and irritation slowly subsided. Now we are not afraid of winter
I hope it was helpful and not boring.
My name is Marina, you can come to me.