10 Best Vitamin C Serums in Singapore (2026): Tested for Brighter, Even Skin

But Better Brighter Beginnings Vitamin C + Niacinamide Dual Serum

Vitamin C type: 3-O-ethyl ascorbic acid
Strength: 2%
Best for: Gentle daily brightening

Why it stands out: Instead of using pure L-ascorbic acid (which can sting), this serum contains 2% 3-O-ethyl ascorbic acid – a more stable, less irritating vitamin C derivative.

That means:

• Gradual, consistent brightening
• Lower risk of redness or stinging
• Better tolerance for sensitive or reactive skin

The added niacinamide helps calm skin and strengthen the barrier, making this more wearable for daily use compared to high-strength 15–20% formulas.

Who should try this: First-time vitamin C users, sensitive skin types, anyone who wants a glow without irritation, and those who prefer a simplified routine.

Texture and finish: Lightweight, hydrating, and quick-absorbing. It layers well under sunscreen and makeup. There’s a subtle citrus scent that feels fresh but isn’t overpowering.

What to consider: At 2%, this isn’t designed to aggressively fade stubborn pigmentation. If you’re targeting deep dark spots and your skin tolerates strong actives, you may prefer a higher-strength L-ascorbic acid formula.

Price: S$72 (50ml) at Shopee

Related reads:

• 9 in 10 Users Noticed Visibly Brighter Skin in Just 3 Weeks After Trying This Dual-Action Serum!
• This Serum Claims To Tackle Dull Skin and Visible Pores – Here’s What an Aesthetic Doctor Thinks After 3 Weeks

Geek & Gorgeous C-Glow 15% Vitamin C Serum

Vitamin C type: L-ascorbic acid
Strength: 15%
Best for: Budget-friendly, high-strength brightening

Why it stands out: This no-frills formula delivers 15% pure L-ascorbic acid with ferulic acid and vitamin E (the classic antioxidant trio) at a surprisingly affordable price point. It’s water-light, potent, and designed for maximum efficacy rather than luxury texture.

That means:

• Strong antioxidant protection
• Visible brightening and tone evening
• Collagen-supporting benefits

Unlike many high-strength vitamin C serums at this percentage, this one is priced accessibly, which explains why beauty enthusiasts rave about its performance-to-price ratio. However, pure vitamin C is notoriously unstable. To maintain freshness, this formula is produced in small batches and has a shorter shelf life. It’s best stored in the fridge and used consistently.

Who should try this: Experienced vitamin C users who want high potency without the premium price tag, and those comfortable managing storage for maximum freshness.

Texture and finish: Super-light and water-like. It absorbs quickly and layers well under moisturiser and sunscreen.

What to consider: Due to its low pH and high pure acid content, it may not suit sensitive or redness-prone skin. It also requires refrigeration to maintain stability.

Price: S$30 (30ml), S$7 (empty 10ml bottle to decant 5-10 days’ worth of C-Glow) on Shopee

Drunk Elephant C-Firma Day Serum

Vitamin C type: L-ascorbic acid
Strength: 15%
Best for: Brightening and photoageing concerns

Why it stands out: This 15% L-ascorbic acid serum is designed to be mixed fresh before first use, helping maintain potency and stability. Unlike many pre-mixed formulas that gradually oxidise, C-Firma is formulated to remain effective for up to a year after mixing.

That means:

• Strong antioxidant protection
• Improved brightness and firmness
• Support against UV- and pollution-related damage

It’s formulated at a low pH (2.5), which allows pure L-ascorbic acid to work effectively, but also means it may feel more active on the skin. The formula also includes fruit enzymes and supporting antioxidants to enhance radiance and address early signs of photoageing.

Who should try this: Those comfortable with pure L-ascorbic acid, anyone targeting dullness and early fine lines, and users who want a potent morning antioxidant under sunscreen.

Texture and finish: Lightweight and fast-absorbing. Some may experience mild tingling upon application, especially if new to high-strength vitamin C. Fragrance-free and free of essential oils and silicones.

What to consider: At 15% L-ascorbic acid and a low pH, this may be too strong for very sensitive or compromised skin. Introduce gradually if you’re new to active ingredients.

Price: S$120 (28ml) at Sephora

Allies of Skin 20% Vitamin C Brighten and Firm Serum

Vitamin C type: Ethylated 20% L-ascorbic acid
Strength: 20%
Best for: Experienced users targeting dullness and loss of firmness

Why it stands out: This is one of the few waterless vitamin C serums, which means it’s less prone to oxidation compared to traditional water-based formulas. It contains a high-strength 20% ethylated form of L-ascorbic acid, delivering potent antioxidant protection and faster visible brightening.

That means:

• Stronger, more intensive brightening
• Improved firmness over time
• Reduced risk of early oxidation

Unlike gentler derivative formulas, this is designed for noticeable results, especially if your skin already tolerates active ingredients well. The formula also includes orange extract to support elasticity, plus glutathione and additional antioxidants to enhance protection and reduce dullness.

Who should try this: Those already comfortable with high-strength vitamin C, anyone targeting pigmentation and early signs of ageing, and users who want a more intensive treatment formula.

Texture and finish: Thicker and more gel-like than most vitamin C serums. It may feel slightly warm upon application – a common sensation with higher concentrations. Best layered carefully in your routine.

What to consider: At 20%, this may be too strong for sensitive or reactive skin. Beginners may prefer starting with a lower concentration before working up.

Price: S$142 (30ml) at Sephora

Garnier Bright Complete 30X Vitamin C Booster Serum

Vitamin C type: 3-O-ethyl ascorbic acid (derivative)
Strength: Marketed as “30x Vitamin C” (derivative-based, exact % not disclosed)
Best for: Affordable spot-brightening and beginners

Why it stands out: This drugstore favourite is powered by 3-O-ethyl ascorbic acid, a stable vitamin C derivative designed for visible brightening with lower irritation risk. The “30x Vitamin C” claim refers to concentrated yuzu lemon extract and vitamin C derivatives — not a literal 30% pure L-ascorbic acid formula.

That means:

• Faster visible brightening for surface dark spots
• More stable than pure vitamin C
• Lower risk of stinging compared to high-strength acids

Compared to 15–20% L-ascorbic acid serums, this is positioned as a more accessible daily brightening option rather than an intensive anti-ageing treatment.

Who should try this: Those new to vitamin C, anyone targeting mild pigmentation, and users looking for a wallet-friendly brightening serum.

Texture and finish: Lightweight, watery, and non-oily. It absorbs quickly and feels comfortable under sunscreen and makeup.

What to consider: The exact vitamin C percentage isn’t disclosed, and results may be more subtle compared to high-strength L-ascorbic acid formulas.

Price: S$28.80 (30ml) on Shopee

SOME BY MI Galactomyces Pure Vitamin C Glow Serum

Vitamin C type: L-ascorbic acid
Strength: 3% (30,000 ppm)
Best for: Dull, uneven skin and gentle brightening

Why it stands out: This serum combines 3% pure L-ascorbic acid with an impressive 75% galactomyces ferment filtrate, replacing purified water entirely. The high concentration of fermented yeast extract helps boost hydration and radiance while supporting overall skin resilience.

That means:

• Brighter, more luminous-looking skin
• Improved texture and clarity
• Added hydration compared to typical vitamin C serums

Unlike high-strength 15–20% formulas, this focuses on glow and tone refinement rather than aggressive pigmentation treatment. It’s also formulated without artificial fragrance, colourants, or silicones, making it more approachable for sensitive skin.

Who should try this: Those new to pure vitamin C, anyone targeting dullness and uneven tone, and users who prefer a gentler daily brightening serum with added hydration.

Texture and finish: Lightweight, watery with a slight gel-like feel. It absorbs quickly, feels non-sticky, and leaves a fresh, hydrated glow. Light brown tint with a subtle citrus scent.

What to consider: At 3%, this is a mild concentration – suitable for maintenance and glow, but unlikely to dramatically fade stubborn pigmentation on its own.

Price: S$33.35 (30ml) on Shopee

Kiehl’s Powerful-Strength Line-Reducing Concentrate

Vitamin C type: 10.5% L-ascorbic acid + 2% ascorbyl glucoside
Strength: 12.5% total vitamin C
Best for: Brightening and early signs of ageing

Why it stands out: This cult-favourite combines pure L-ascorbic acid with a vitamin C derivative, giving you both immediate antioxidant power and longer-term stability. The addition of hyaluronic acid makes it more hydrating than many traditional vitamin C serums.

That means:

• Brighter, firmer-looking skin
• Reduced appearance of fine lines and pores
• Antioxidant protection that remains active in skin for days

Unlike lightweight, watery vitamin C serums, this has a richer, more cushiony texture that doubles almost as a smoothing primer under makeup.

Who should try this: Those targeting fine lines and loss of firmness, users who want brightening plus hydration, and anyone comfortable with mid-to-high strength vitamin C.

Texture and finish: Thick, silky, and slightly silicone-like. It absorbs quickly without greasiness and may create a mild warming sensation upon application – a common effect with L-ascorbic acid formulas. Fresh citrus scent.

What to consider: The warming sensation may not suit very reactive skin. While formulated for all skin types, those new to active ingredients should introduce it gradually.

Price: S$123 (50ml) on Shopee

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic

Vitamin C type: L-ascorbic acid
Strength: 15% L-ascorbic acid + 1% vitamin E + 0.5% ferulic acid
Best for: Advanced photoageing and environmental protection

Why it stands out: Often considered the gold standard of vitamin C serums, this patented formula combines 15% pure L-ascorbic acid with vitamin E and ferulic acid – a clinically studied trio shown to enhance antioxidant performance.

That means:

• Strong protection against UV, pollution, and environmental stress
• Improved firmness and reduced fine lines
• Brighter, more even-looking skin

It’s clinically demonstrated to reduce combined oxidative damage from UV rays, ozone, and diesel exhaust by up to 41%, making it one of the most research-backed options available.

Who should try this: Those serious about anti-ageing and sun damage, users comfortable with pure L-ascorbic acid, and anyone willing to invest in a dermatologist-favourite formula.

Texture and finish: Thin, watery, and slightly viscous with a lightweight feel. It absorbs quickly but may leave a mild tackiness that settles after layering moisturiser. The amber tone is normal for pure vitamin C formulas.

What to consider: This is one of the priciest options on the market. While highly effective, it may be too strong for very sensitive or compromised skin.

Price: S$285 (30ml) on Shopee

Sunday Riley C.E.O. 15% Vitamin C Brightening Serum

Vitamin C type: THD ascorbate
Strength: 15%
Best for: Brightening + anti-ageing in dry or mature skin

Why it stands out: Instead of using pure L-ascorbic acid, this serum contains 15% THD ascorbate, an oil-soluble and more stable form of vitamin C known for being gentler while still delivering visible brightening.

That means:

• Strong antioxidant protection
• Reduced appearance of dark spots
• Smoother-looking skin with improved firmness

Compared to traditional 15% L-ascorbic acid formulas, THD ascorbate is typically better tolerated and less likely to sting, making it a strong option for those who want high strength without the usual irritation. It also contains phytosterols to help reduce redness, saccharide isomerate for hydration and pore refinement, and a touch of glycolic acid to support mild exfoliation and glow.

Who should try this: Those targeting early signs of ageing, dullness, and uneven tone, especially if you have drier skin and want a more hydrating vitamin C formula.

Texture and finish: Lightweight but slightly richer than watery vitamin C serums. It absorbs quickly, leaving skin feeling hydrated and smooth without greasiness.

What to consider: While gentler than pure L-ascorbic acid, it’s still a high-strength formula. Those with very reactive skin may prefer starting with a lower percentage.

Price: S$82 (15ml), S$139 (30ml), and S$199 (50ml) on Sephora

Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum

Vitamin C type: Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate
Strength: 10%
Best for: Acne-prone and sensitive skin

Why it stands out: Instead of using pure L-ascorbic acid, this formula contains sodium ascorbyl phosphate, a highly stable and gentler form of vitamin C that’s well-suited for acne-prone or reactive skin.

That means:

• Brightening without high irritation risk
• Better stability compared to pure vitamin C
• A more barrier-friendly daily option

It’s boosted with vitamin E and ferulic acid, a combination often referred to as the “gold-standard antioxidant trio”, helping enhance overall antioxidant protection. Hyaluronic acid adds hydration, while konjac root and chamomile help calm visible redness.

Who should try this: Those with acne-prone or sensitive skin, anyone new to vitamin C, or users looking for a stable, everyday brightening serum without the sting.

Texture and finish: Thin, gel-like, and fast-absorbing. It layers easily under moisturiser and sunscreen. There’s a faint natural botanical scent from plant extracts, but no added synthetic fragrance.

What to consider: While 10% is effective for brightening and improving texture, results may be more gradual compared to high-strength L-ascorbic acid formulas. If you’re targeting stubborn pigmentation quickly, a stronger concentration may work faster.

Price: S$34.17 (30ml) on iHerb