5 Editors Discover Why Vitamin C is Skincare's Golden Ingredient

When it comes to Vitamin C, there is a lot of information out there. And as beauty enthusiasts and POPSUGAR editors we had a few questions of our own. How to use it topically? Do I use it daily? For how long? Is it supposed to feel that way on my skin?! Lucky for you, we were willing to offer ourselves up as guinea pigs and test a few of the most popular Vitamin C products available at Sephora. Each of us researched the options and chose a product that would help target our particular skincare concerns. From fine lines and dull skin, to dark spots and hyperpigmentation, keep reading to see how this ingredient does it all!

"Whenever I mention to someone that I'm concerned about fine lines, I can literally see their eyes roll. But it's a serious problem and if you don't start taking preventative measures in your 20s, your 30s will be a bust. I decided I wanted to add a Vitamin C serum to my morning routine because of all the benefits — radiance, even texture, antioxidant protection, exfoliation — what's not to love? I think my main concern was how my normally sensitive skin would react to such a potent formula in the Kiehl’s Since 1851 Powerful-Strength Line-Reducing Concentrate 12.5% Vitamin C, but I had nothing to worry about. I just add a few pumps to clean, toned skin in the morning. Then I top it off with a lightweight moisturizer and finish with a generous dose of SPF. With so many active ingredients working on your skin, it's always a good idea to add that extra layer or protection even if it's just for your 10 minute commute. It's amazing what a difference this has made to the texture of my skin! Suddenly everything feels firmer and smoother, and the few fine lines I noticed popping up around my eyes and forehead have started to fade."

"I've tried Vitamin C products in the past, but never really used them religiously enough to see results. My skin is on the dry side, it's very fair and freckles easily, and can look a little dull. Like most women, having clear, radiant skin is a goal for me, and now in my 30s, I'm trying to get preventative and integrate firming products into my routine, too. I'd heard really good things about the Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare C + Collagen Brighten & Firm Vitamin C Serum and seen the rave reviews online, so it's been on my list to try. One pump was enough to lightly coat my face. I feared it was going to leave a tacky-feeling residue behind, but it dried so fast. I was amazed at the way my skin looked instantly tighter, smoother, and more radiant in just one use. Healthy looking, I guess, is the best way to describe it. The results have only improved over time, and I'm now using it religiously in the morning since I do feel like I see an instant pick-me-up for a more sculpted and clear complexion."

"I've had my eye on the OLEHENRIKSEN Truth Serum for a while and I'm so glad I finally got to try. I'm always seeking out products to brighten my face. I loved that this serum went on like a gel, but didn't leave my skin sticky. Unlike other products with Vitamin C, the Truth Serum didn't leave behind an unpleasant lingering scent. It was also super easy to use! I applied it on clean skin then followed up with a moisturizer twice a day. After a few applications my skin felt noticeably brighter and more radiant. In the morning, I was left with supple skin that was definitely more hydrated. If you have combination skin with a particularly oily T-zone, like me, the formula is also fast-absorbing and won't feel heavy and make your face feel greasy."

"I have to admit, I'm somewhat of a lazy skincare junkie. I love experimenting with masks and am in a totally committed relationship with my favorite products, but it takes a lot of motivation to add something to my regular routine, or try specific ingredients like Vitamin C. But once I realized how smooth Peter Thomas Roth's Potent-C Power Serum made my skin feel, I knew it would become one of my new staples. Right off the bat, I was surprised it didn't smell overwhelmingly citrus-y, but rather had a very subtle orange peel scent. The creamy texture seemed unique for a serum, but it melted seamlessly into my face and one pump left me with the perfect amount of product. After consistently using it morning and night, I noticed that my skin was not only a bit brighter (I think my complexion can tend to look a little dull) but more even-toned as well. I'm also excited to see the long-term effects as I keep using it — like firmness and anti-aging benefits."