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VITAMIN C SERUMS EXPLAINED: HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT ONE FOR
YOUR SKIN

Vitamin C has become one of the most talked-about ingredients in skincare. From brightening dull complexions to supporting collagen production, it’s a powerhouse antioxidant with proven benefits.

Yet with so many Vitamin C serums on the market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Different concentrations, ingredient lists, and price points can make choosing the right one for your skin confusing.

In this guide, we’ll break down what Vitamin C really does, how to spot a well formulated serum, and how to select one that suits your skin type.

At 1.62 (One Point Six Two), we believe skincare should be science backed, transparent, balanced and effective.

BLOG

VITAMIN C SERUMS EXPLAINED: HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT ONE FOR
YOUR SKIN

Vitamin C has become one of the most talked-about ingredients in skincare. From brightening dull complexions to supporting collagen production, it’s a powerhouse antioxidant with proven benefits.

Yet with so many Vitamin C serums on the market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Different concentrations, ingredient lists, and price points can make choosing the right one for your skin confusing.

In this guide, we’ll break down what Vitamin C really does, how to spot a well formulated serum, and how to select one that suits your skin type.

At 1.62 (One Point Six Two), we believe skincare should be science backed, transparent, balanced and effective.

WHAT DOES VITAMIN C ACTUALLY DO
FOR YOUR SKIN?

Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that helps neutralize unstable molecules that accelerate skin aging. When used consistently, Vitamin C serums can:

  • Brighten and even out skin tone
  • Support collagen production for firmer-looking skin
  • Fade dark spots and post-acne marks
  • Strengthen the skin’s natural barrier
  • Enhance the protective power of sunscreen

In short, Vitamin C helps reveal a smoother, more radiant complexion but results depend heavily on the quality and stability of the formula.

WHAT DOES VITAMIN C ACTUALLY DO
FOR YOUR SKIN?

Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that helps neutralize unstable molecules that accelerate skin aging. When used consistently, Vitamin C serums can:

  • Brighten and even out skin tone
  • Support collagen production for firmer-looking skin
  • Fade dark spots and post-acne marks
  • Strengthen the skin’s natural barrier
  • Enhance the protective power of sunscreen

In short, Vitamin C helps reveal a smoother, more radiant complexion but results depend heavily on the quality and stability of the formula.

WHY ALL VITAMIN C SERUMS AREN’T THE SAME

Not all Vitamin C serums deliver the same results. The most effective and research-supported form is L-Ascorbic Acid, but it’s also highly unstable and can lose potency when exposed to light or air.

A well formulated serum will stabilize Vitamin C through supporting ingredients, pH balance, and packaging that limits oxidation.

Key things to look for:

  • Concentration: Between 10–20% delivers optimal benefits without irritation.
  • pH Level: Around 3.0–3.5 for better absorption.
  • Packaging: Dark, air-tight bottles to preserve freshness.
  • Supporting Ingredients: Hydrating or soothing components like aloe vera and hyaluronic acid reduce sensitivity.

WHY ALL VITAMIN C SERUMS AREN’T THE SAME

Not all Vitamin C serums deliver the same results. The most effective and research-supported form is L-Ascorbic Acid, but it’s also highly unstable and can lose potency when exposed to light or air.

A well formulated serum will stabilize Vitamin C through supporting ingredients, pH balance, and packaging that limits oxidation.

Key things to look for:

  • Concentration: Between 10–20% delivers optimal benefits without irritation.
  • pH Level: Around 3.0–3.5 for better absorption.
  • Packaging: Dark, air-tight bottles to preserve freshness.
  • Supporting Ingredients: Hydrating or soothing components like aloe vera and hyaluronic acid reduce sensitivity.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT VITAMIN C SERUM FOR YOUR SKIN TYPE

Dry or Dehydrated skin

What to Look For:

Serums with humectants such as hyaluronic acid

Tips:

Apply moisturizer afterward to seal in hydration

Oily or Combination skin

What to Look For:

Lightweight, non-sticky texture

Tips:

Use in the morning before SPF

Sensitive skin

What to Look For:

Moderate strength (10–15%) with soothing ingredients like aloe vera

Tips:

Patch-test and build tolerance gradually

Mature or Pigmented skin

What to Look For:

Potent formula (15–20%) with antioxidants

Tips:

Consistency over time gives best brightening results

Whatever your skin type, start slowly and pair Vitamin C with sunscreen daily (SPF). This combination maximizes results and protection.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT VITAMIN C SERUM FOR YOUR SKIN TYPE

Dry or Dehydrated skin

What to Look For:

Serums with humectants such as hyaluronic acid

Tips:

Apply moisturizer afterward to seal in hydration

Oily or Combination skin

What to Look For:

Lightweight, non-sticky texture

Tips:

Use in the morning before SPF

Sensitive skin

What to Look For:

Moderate strength (10–15%) with soothing ingredients like aloe vera

Tips:

Patch-test and build tolerance gradually

Mature or Pigmented skin

What to Look For:

Potent formula (15–20%) with antioxidants

Tips:

Consistency over time gives best brightening results

Whatever your skin type, start slowly and pair Vitamin C with sunscreen daily (SPF). This combination maximizes results and protection.

FORMULATION
QUALITY: THE REAL DIFFERENCE MAKER

A serum’s effectiveness depends on more than concentration. The supporting formulation — pH, antioxidants, hydration agents, and preservatives — determines how well Vitamin C penetrates and remains stable.

That’s why two serums with the same percentage can perform very differently. It’s not about finding the cheapest or most expensive option — it’s about finding a formula that’s balanced, stable, and kind to your skin.

FORMULATION
QUALITY: THE REAL DIFFERENCE MAKER

A serum’s effectiveness depends on more than concentration. The supporting formulation — pH, antioxidants, hydration agents, and preservatives — determines how well Vitamin C penetrates and remains stable.

That’s why two serums with the same percentage can perform very differently. It’s not about finding the cheapest or most expensive option — it’s about finding a formula that’s balanced, stable, and kind to your skin.

WHY WE CREATED
1.62 VITAMIN C 15% SERUM

At 1.62, we designed our Vitamin C 15% Serum to deliver potency without compromise. Our formula combines 15% stabilized L-Ascorbic Acid with Aloe Vera and Hyaluronic Acid — ingredients that hydrate, calm, and support barrier health.

This balance ensures visible brightness and firmness while minimizing the irritation that often comes with high-strength Vitamin C.

Every ingredient in our formula is EU-grade and pharmaceutical quality, chosen for purity, safety, and performance. This ensures that each batch meets high standards for consistency and stability — something you can feel from the very first application.

We avoid parabens, silicones, and synthetic fragrances — focusing instead on clean, high-performance ingredients that deliver real results.

Choosing the right Vitamin C serum doesn’t have to be complicated. Once you understand how concentration, formulation, and supporting ingredients work together, you can make an informed choice tailored to your skin.

If you’re looking for a balanced, effective, and skin-friendly formula, explore 1.62 Vitamin C 15% Serum — science-driven skincare that helps your skin glow with confidence.

WHY WE CREATED
1.62 VITAMIN C 15% SERUM

At 1.62, we designed our Vitamin C 15% Serum to deliver potency without compromise. Our formula combines 15% stabilized L-Ascorbic Acid with Aloe Vera and Hyaluronic Acid — ingredients that hydrate, calm, and support barrier health.

This balance ensures visible brightness and firmness while minimizing the irritation that often comes with high-strength Vitamin C.

Every ingredient in our formula is EU-grade and pharmaceutical quality, chosen for purity, safety, and performance. This ensures that each batch meets high standards for consistency and stability — something you can feel from the very first application.

We avoid parabens, silicones, and synthetic fragrances — focusing instead on clean, high-performance ingredients that deliver real results.

Choosing the right Vitamin C serum doesn’t have to be complicated. Once you understand how concentration, formulation, and supporting ingredients work together, you can make an informed choice tailored to your skin.

If you’re looking for a balanced, effective, and skin-friendly formula, explore 1.62 Vitamin C 15% Serum — science-driven skincare that helps your skin glow with confidence.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT VITAMIN C SERUMS

1. What does Vitamin C do for your skin?

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps brighten dull skin, even tone, support collagen production, and protect against free radical damage from UV exposure and pollution. With consistent use, it promotes smoother, firmer, and more radiant-looking skin.

2. What percentage of Vitamin C is most effective?

Most dermatologists recommend a concentration between 10–20% for visible results. 15% offers an optimal balance of potency and tolerance — high enough to brighten and firm the skin, yet gentle enough for most users.

3. Can Vitamin C irritate the skin?

Pure L-Ascorbic Acid, the most active form of Vitamin C, can occasionally cause mild tingling or redness, especially at higher concentrations. To minimize irritation, choose a stabilized formula with soothing ingredients like aloe vera or hyaluronic acid, and start with alternate-day use if your skin is sensitive.

4. Can I use Vitamin C and niacinamide together?

Yes — Vitamin C and niacinamide can be safely used together. In fact, they complement each other: Vitamin C brightens and protects, while niacinamide calms, strengthens, and refines texture. You can layer them (Vitamin C first, then niacinamide) or use one in the morning and the other at night.

5. When should I apply Vitamin C serum?

Apply Vitamin C serum in the morning after cleansing and before moisturizer and sunscreen. Its antioxidant properties enhance your SPF’s protection against environmental stressors throughout the day.

6. How long does it take to see results from Vitamin C?

Most people notice a brighter, more even complexion within 4–8 weeks of consistent use. Improvements in firmness and dark spots typically appear over several months with daily application and proper sun protection.

7. How should I store Vitamin C serum?

Vitamin C is sensitive to light and air, which can cause it to oxidize and lose effectiveness. Choose products in dark, airtight bottles, and store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If the serum darkens significantly or changes scent, it may be time to replace it.

8. What skin types can use Vitamin C serum?

Vitamin C suits most skin types, including dry, oily, and combination. Sensitive skin types should start with 10–15% concentrations and look for formulas that include hydrating or calming ingredients to reduce potential irritation.