Gentler in concentration and more focused on preventative skincare, the best Korean vitamin C serum comes in lightweight, fast-absorbing formulas that brighten skin and fade hyperpigmentation and scarring. Thoughtful packaging preserves their stability, while a gentle formulation helps deliver on the key tenements of glass skin: smoothness, clearness, and luminosity. Paired with the best Korean cleansing oils and toners, you’re well on your way to creating a well-rounded K-beauty regimen that places its biggest focus on restoring, maintaining, and repairing the skin barrier.
To start, there are three main forms of vitamin C: L-ascorbic acid, tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, and 3-O-Ethyl-L-ascorbic acid. All have varying levels of stability and solubility. But regardless, vitamin C has three main benefits, says David Kim, MD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist based in New York City. “For starters, it’s a great antioxidant and keeps the skin cells really healthy. It also has brightening properties, alongside UV protection, so it’s great to use during the summertime.”
Paula Brezavscek, a board-certified physician assistant, previously told Vogue as well that “vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that plays several important roles in skin health,” including helping protect the skin from environmental stressors like UV rays and pollution; supporting collagen production, and helping even out skin tone by fading dark spots and hyperpigmentation. “It’s one of the most well-studied and effective ingredients we have for brightening and protecting the skin,” Dr. Brezavscek added. To add the ingredient to your regimen, take stock of the best Korean vitamin C serums—a look at some Vogue editor and dermatologist favorites below.
In This Story
Best Stabile: CosRx The Vitamin C 23 Serum
Best With Retinol: PRMR Youth Radiance Vitatinol Serum
Best With Glutathione: Numbuzin No.5+ Vitamin Concentrated Serum
Best for Hyperpigmentation: Goodal Green Tangerine Vita C Dark Spot Serum
Best Naturally Derived: Dr. Althea Vitamin C Boosting Serum
Best With Ferulic Acid: Glow Recipe Guava Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum
Best Lightweight: Physiogel Scienceuticals Daiimune Ampoule Serum
Best Spicules Serum: VT Vita-Light Reedle Shot 100
Best for Enlarged Pores: Innisfree Green Tea Enzyme Vitamin C Brightening Serum
Best Exfoliating: Mediheal Vitamin C Brightening Serum
Everything You Need to Know
