Key ingredients: vitamin C complex, squalene, hyaluronic acid, phytic acid, pumpkin enzymes | Who it’s for: people with dull, uneven texture
Best for Enlarged Pores: Belif Aqua Bomb Brightening Vitamin C Cream
Why it’s worth it: Like gossip in a group chat with your best friends, skin is best when it’s extra juicy—and that’s exactly what you get from Belif’s Aqua Bomb Brightening Vitamin C Cream. This glow-boosting formula is packed with radiance-enhancing vitamin C, moisture-locking hyaluronic acid, and soothing vitamin E to deliver glassy, bouncy skin. It doesn’t stop there—this cream also smooths the look of pores, giving you that coveted smooth finish. Plus, “Vitamin C’s effectiveness increases when combined with other antioxidants, such as vitamin E,” explains New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Patricia Wexler, MD, in a previous interview with Allure. This means it essentially doubling your defense against free-radical damage.
Key ingredients: alchemilla vulgaris, ascorbic acid, ascorbyl palmitate, hyaluronic acid | Who it’s for: people with enlarged pores
Best Drugstore: RoC Multi Correxion Revive + Glow Gel Cream
Why it’s worth it: RoC is one of those brands that deliver effective, results-driven products at reasonable price ranges. Case in point: The Multi Correxion Revive + Glow Moisturizer rings in at less than $30 and features a 10% concentration of ascorbic acid (pure vitamin C) alongside soothing glycerin, peptides, and shea butter for deep yet non-irritating absorption. Best of all, it has a lightweight gel-cream texture that doesn’t feel heavy or greasy in the slightest, so you can wear it during the daytime underneath sunscreen and makeup without batting an eye.
Key ingredients: niacinamide, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid | Who it’s for: people with fine lines and wrinkles
Frequently Asked Questions
Which vitamin C cream is the best?
Look for one that pairs vitamin C with other ingredients. Vitamin C is its standout ingredient, yes, but it works beautifully alongside niacinamide. While niacinamide works to combat hyperpigmentation, minimize the look of pores, and reduce excess oil production, vitamin C targets discoloration and free radical damage for smoother, more even skin, says Dr. Yadav.
Is vitamin C cream good for older skin?
In short, vitamin C cream is great for older skin. Aside from being a potent antioxidant, vitamin C has anti-inflammatory properties that stave off discoloration, brown spots, and melasma. The ingredient is also responsible for stimulating collagen production and works well when paired with other finicky ingredients like retinol.
