4 Best Affordable Vitamin C Serums, All Under $90

Vitamin C isn't merely found in our diet; it's abundantly present within our skin, assisting in vital functions such as collagen synthesis and offering robust antioxidant defense against environmental and internal stressors. These stressors, like UV radiation and pollution, generate oxygen free radicals that, if left unchecked, can damage crucial skin structures. Antioxidants like Vitamin C are crucial as they neutralise these radicals, preserving the skin's health and vitality.

Now, it's worth noting that not everyone's skin agrees with Vitamin C, and that's completely fine. Think of Vitamin C as an extra flourish to your skincare 'sundae'—it enhances the whole experience, but the 'sundae' is still delightful without it. The cornerstone of a sound sun protection regimen is, and always should be, sunscreen. Vitamin C simply adds that extra layer of defense and contributes to reversing signs of skin damage and aging. This is also another reason why it's best to try out vitamin c serum first.

When we talk about essentials in skincare, we refer to the 'Holy Trinity': a cleanser, moisturiser, and sunscreen. These are your non-negotiables. From there, you might add a topical retinoid for its anti-aging and skin tone-evening properties, and then consider Vitamin C—a significant, yet not the most crucial, player.

Ascorbic acid, while potent, is also highly unstable. Exposure to elements like water, air, or light can cause it to degrade, which is why you'll often find Vitamin C products in airtight, opaque packaging. If you've ever noticed your Vitamin C serum changing colour over time, from clear to yellow or even brown, this is a telltale sign of oxidation, indicating a reduction in the product's effectiveness.

So, when do you consider a Vitamin C product past its prime? If it's turned a deep yellow or brown, it's likely time to discard it. Also, pay attention to changes in consistency—if your liquid serum becomes thicker or a cream begins to separate, these are signs that it's no longer suitable for use. Given the price point of many Vitamin C serums, it's ideal to use the entire product within three months of opening, storing it carefully away from light and heat. The best affordable vitamin c serum list is ever changing, if you start noticing something different about your current serum. Ditch it and look for the next best affordable vitamin c serum.

Let's shift gears and talk about the best affordable vitamin c serums; considering some Vitamin C serums that are not only effective but also budget-friendly. These serums often include L ascorbic acid, Vitamin E, and ferulic acid, which stabilize the Vitamin C and bolster its skin benefits.

If you prefer a serum that's less watery and more emollient, there are oil-suspended ascorbic acid options that are also well-formulated and come from reputable brands. These could be ideal for those who favor a richer texture or have drier skin.

They’re more stable and can provide a gentler approach to achieving the skin brightening and anti-aging effects you’re seeking.

When it comes to combining other skincare ingredients with your Vitamin C serum, steer clear of benzoyl peroxide and copper peptides during the same part of your routine, as they can deactivate the Vitamin C. Contrary to some misconceptions, niacinamide can be safely paired with Vitamin C. As for exfoliating acids, while they don’t destabilize Vitamin C, they can increase the potential for skin irritation due to their independent irritating effects.

In summary, while Vitamin C isn't the pinnacle of skincare, it's undoubtedly near the top of the list for additives that can enrich your routine. Whether it's for long-term collagen support or immediate skin brightening, the best affordable Vitamin C serum can be a worthy investment. But remember, it's not indispensable; a skincare regimen founded on cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection is already a robust framework for maintaining healthy skin.

Exploring the world of Vitamin C derivatives can be worthwhile, especially if ascorbic acid doesn't suit your skin. THD ascorbate and other derivatives may not have the same volume of evidence as ascorbic acid, but they offer a more stable, often gentler approach.

Ultimately, the goal is to find a Vitamin C product that you can commit to using within its effective shelf life, that works for your skin type, and that doesn't impose on your budget. Whether you choose to splurge on a high-end serum or opt for a more economical but effective product, the best affordable Vitamin C serum is out there waiting to be discovered.