Different Types of Vitamin C for Your Skin

woman holding juice before using vitamin c serum for face

Are you looking for a perfect cure for a particular skin problem? Well, there is not just one solution for multiple skin-related problems, but there is something for everyone. 

When it comes to dealing with skin dullness, brown spots, stubborn pigmentation, uneven tone, then vitamin C is the perfect relief for it. And with so many vitamin C serum for face in the market today, it can be the most convenient solution.

To understand what is the best vitamin C serum for face for you, let’s first take a look at the different types of Vitamin C that you can add to your skincare regime. 

Vitamin C Serum for Face: the Different Types of Vitamin C

Ascorbic Acid

No matter if you have sensitive skin or a normal skin type, this vitamin C is perfect for you. However, normal skin types should use this acid with a pH of less than 4, while sensitive skin people should use it with pH 5-7. 

If you have stubborn skin problems, then the concentration of the ascorbic acid to use should be around 15%-20%. 

Ascorbic Acid is mainly needed to strengthen the immune system, heal wounds, or neutralize free radicals. This is the most popular type of vitamin C serum for face.

Pros

  • Neutralizes free radicals
  • Boost collagen production
  • Removes scars 

Cons

  • Can oxidize quickly (vitamin C in itself is sensitive to light and air)
  • Can cause skin irritation 

Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate

Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate is a water-soluble and stable derivative of Vitamin C, which is usually used in 0.1-2% concentration for daily use. It contains anti-inflammatory properties and also works as a skin whitening agent. It usually comes in a pH of 6-7%. Unlike ascorbic acid, it does not oxidize quickly. Hence, sodium ascorbyl phosphate can be used for a long time in serums and is used in some of the best vitamin c serum for face.

Pros

  • Filled with antioxidants 
  • Brightens skin tone
  • Aids in skin firming 

Cons

  • Can irritate super sensitive skin 

Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate

Usually used in topical form, this Vitamin C type is one of the most stable ones in the market and is also found as an ingredient in some of the best vitamin C serum for face. 

Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate is the most hydrating Vitamin C that does not easily oxidize as well. With excellent anti-inflammatory properties, it’s the best vitamin c serum for face to use on sensitive or acne-prone skin. Plus, it’s soluble in water and with an ideal pH level of 5.5-7. 

Pros

  • Light-stable and oxygen-stable 
  • Less likely to cause irritation
  • Neutralize free radicals 
  • Protect collagen 
  • Hydrates skin 

Cons

  • Expensive 

Sodium Ascorbate

Falling under the category of mineral salts, sodium ascorbate is considered the most natural form of Vitamin C. It’s less potent though, which is why it’s an ideal vitamin C serum for face, being that it can be used by all skin types.

Sodium ascorbate is soluble in water, but it is less likely to be soluble in chloroform, ether, or alcohol. Sodium ascorbate turns into ascorbic acid after it is put on the skin. It is pretty mild, so that anyone can use it. 

Pros

  • Fights free radicals 
  • Improves collagen production
  • Gives youthful skin
  • Fights bacteria
  • Evens out skin 

Cons

  • Can cause blood pressure problems if taken as a supplement
  • Rash/itch 
  • Allergic reactions 

Calcium Ascorbate

Filled with excellent skin hydrating properties, calcium ascorbate is an excellent source of Vitamin C for your skin. From relieving your face from dark spots to fine lines, it is perfect for keeping you youthful. It works the best at neutral pH and does not cause unnecessary irritation, so it’s also used by the best vitamin C serum for face.

Pros

  • Beneficial for tissue, cartilage, and bones
  • Improves the condition of osteoarthritis 
  • Aids in improving sunburn 

Cons

  • Supplements can cause allergic reactions 

Ascorbyl Palmitate

It is a fat-soluble derivative of Vitamin C, which is the best for normal to sensitive skin. As compared to other derivatives, this vitamin C is more stable in light and air. Ascorbyl palmitate does not cause much irritation on the skin and helps it to heal from within. 

Pros

  • Removes hyperpigmentation
  • Improves skin texture
  • Boosts collagen production 

Cons

  • Products can be pricey 

THD Ascorbate

It’s an oil-soluble Vitamin C derivative that is compatible with almost all skin types. It does not oxidize quickly, so you do not have to worry about wasting your money on it. THD ascorbate is one of the best Vitamin C in the market due to its properties. Not only does it solves skincare concerns, but it works well to make you glow all the time. 

Pros

  • Boost collagen production
  • Stops premature signs of aging 
  • Improves fine lines and wrinkles 

Cons

  • Products can be pricey 

Which type for the best vitamin C serum for face?

When it comes to taking care of your skin, you should never forget to add vitamin C to your daily routine. It’s a safe ingredient that not only boosts the health of your skin but gives you a glowing complexion as well. No matter if you have fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and other skin problems – Vitamin C is the answer for all! 

All the types of vitamin C mentioned above can work for sensitive, normal, dry, or other skin types. Although some of them might oxidize quicker than others, they all can work wonders for your skin. So whether you choose ascorbic acid, sodium ascorbyl phosphate, THD ascorbate, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, or some other type, it’s best to get a suitable vitamin C serum or supplement to add to your daily routine to ensure youthful and radiant skin. 

If you are wondering which particular product will suit you, it is best to do a patch test if you consider a vitamin C serum. Consider also the ingredients that come with your vitamin C serum, and maybe take a look at the best vitamin C serum with hyaluronic acid (it’s a wonder pairing worth checking out!).

Take your time to get to know the brands that are among the best vitamin C serum for face, and understand why before purchasing it!