Dermatologist Explains Vitamin C in Skincare & Favorite Affordable Vitamin C Serums | Dr. Sam Ellis

Do you need to use vitamin C in your skincare routine? What does vitamin C even do? What vitamin C serum is best? As a dermatologist, I get these questions all the time, so I'm talking all about vitamin C in skincare in this video. Share your favorite vitamin C product in the comments!
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SHOP:
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic*: go.shopmy.us/p-977590
L'oreal Paris Revitalift Vitamin C Serum*: go.shopmy.us/p-977586
Maelove the Glow Maker Serum*: go.shopmy.us/p-977594
Timeless Skincare 20% Vitamin C + E Ferulic Acid Serum*: go.shopmy.us/p-977597
Cerave Skin Renewing Vitamin C Serum*: go.shopmy.us/p-977601
Revision Skincare C+ Correcting Complex 30%*: go.shopmy.us/p-977602
Skinbetter Alto Advanced Defense and Repair Serum: go.shopmy.us/p-977606
Shop more of my favorite products here: shopmy.us/drsamanthaellis
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Website: www.mybeautymd.com/
CHAPTERS:
00:00 Intro
00:29 About Vitamin C
01:41 Topical Vitamin C
03:43 Skincare Essentials
04:15 Ascorbic Acid
07:35 Favorite Vitamin C Serums
10:56 Vitamin C Derivatives
14:40 Vitamin C Tips
17:22 Subscribe!
DISCLAIMER: The information in this video is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician. Some of the links in this description may be affiliate links (marked with *). Affiliate links help support my KZbin channel so I can continue to create fun, informational skincare videos for you. Also, some products may have been received as PR. Thanks for watching!

[@aprilj6159]

Cereve vitamin c is awesome and affordable and the tube lasts a long time.

[@bobbiek984]

I have been using the Timeless vitamin c for probably 6 years now. I keep it in my refrigerator and have not had any issues with changing color or texture. I will say that when I first started using vitamin c, I just kept it in my bathroom cabinet and over time I noticed oxidation sooner. That’s when I started storing in the refrigerator. Also I have been lucky to find timeless on Amazon !!!😊

[@sailorgrlie]

This one broke me out immediately. Maelove Glow Maker has been a winner in my routine.

[@zoeberry33]

I love Maelove and Timeless

[@zoeberry33]

@@chadh6855 I always buy straight from Timeless. They frequently have sales

[@rosemarysemprez1265]

Timeless is my favorite 10%

[@skinme2340]

Same! I have been using it for 4 years and I love it!!!

[@lenorelopez748]

Great information. Thank you!!

[@itouchten]

I use Timeless. Thank you for this video.

[@lyndseyrullman7349]

Very informative. When I get some extra funds I will look into purchasing the Timeless product!

[@cynthialopez2084]

I love how you use illustrations to explain products to us. Thank you for educating us. ❤

[@territimmons8482]

I use Timeless for my Vitamin C, love it!!

[@Truffoire]

Your skin looks perfect! cant wait to try them out

[@frankr.]

Dr. Ellis, you offer the most articulate explanations. Thank you for the always valuable information!

[@christinemack2153]

I've tried many and go back to Timeless as budget friendly. You are so eloquent and knowledgeable, thank you for your time!

[@gladysgonzales3268]

Thanks for educating me on the vitamin C's and they're difference. I use the timeless vitamin c been using this for years.

[@ginar51]

Love you and your videos. Can you talk about copper peptides?

[@jasonginenthal7275]

During autumn/winter, I like the L'Oreal vitamin c since it's oil-based and more moisturizing. For spring/summer, I go for either Maelove or Timeless!

[@rosej9686]

I love and continue to repurchase the Timeless Vitamin C serum. 😍

[@robertlouisebaker-hyde1267]

Skinceuticals is overpriced. Thanks but no thanks. Timeless is as effective at a very affordable price. Airless pump and opaque packaging. Absolutely love it.

[@catherinewheeler7498]

Thank you for your this video, very informative. 😘

[@myblueheaven81]

I am so glad you posted this video and mentioned what cleanser to avoid before vitamin C. Last year I listened to another person that recommended to use a glycolic acid cleanser before applying vitamin C and my face wasn't a fan so stopped using it using it after bottle was empty.. Now after watching your video I may use Timeless again, but this time without the glycolic cleanser and see if my skin handles it better. Thank you.

[@gettingthatlove419]

You are so well spoken, Dr. Ellis! Amazingly laid out, thank you!! Personally I enjoy the Drunk Elephant C-Firma. It’s a nice dupe of Skinceuticals (in fact they got sued for trying to copy the formula). I know a lot of folks find Drunk Elephant problematic for whatever reason, but I’m still a fan. However, I’m in the processing building up my tolerance for prescription Tretinoin, so I had to stop all other actives (BHAs, AHAs, and vitamin c). I’m hoping once I’m nice and settled with that ingredient, I can slowly incorporate vitamin c back into my my routine, but for now it’s just too much. I can only tolerate one at a time. Thanks again for your video!!

[@elizabethvanmeter3217]

I alternate between Timeless and Maelove. I am trying to make choices I can sustain and Skinceuticals is way out of my budget. If someone gave me some, I’d love to try it, but I don’t see that happening anytime soon. 😊 Thanks for your thoughtful, interesting, informative content! 😊

[@melissagalech3649]

I also use Timeless! I'm so glad you said that it enhances sunscreen because I think that is a big seller for me. The reason I might want to apply it at night as well is because it might get broken down a little bit by the UV rays and free radicals from pollution and other debris that lands on our face throughout the day. Thank you for this video!

[@slhilliard]

Good morning. Curious where copper peptides and AHAs would fit in your list of necessary(ish) skincare products... thanks for your content!

[@lind5180]

Informative. Thanks ❤️

[@traepalmer]

My skin doesn't like low-pH after shaving, so I like THD or ATIP in the morning after shaving (stacked with other antioxidants). My skin is dry, and I really like the emollient bases in which most of those two derivatives tend to be formulated. Really, the only place I've found where I can slide in ascorbic acid is on nights where I use AHAs: I can layer an anhydrous AA suspension over it, and it does give my skin a glow and plumped-out effect, similar to what THD and ATIP do, but it and AHAs need to be spaced a minimum of 8 hours after shaving or their low pHs will cause a pretty bad rash over anywhere I've shaved 😅

[@pammckenzie1132]

I now use Timeless and love it. I keep it in the fridge. I have purchased the pricey one twice and both times it was already yellowish.

[@jenniferpetty5238]

I have Dermatomyositis which was misdiagnosed as rosacea years ago. I gotta say, the rash does respond better to the Alto defense and is lightening up without irritation in addition to the oral meds I take for it.

[@annebrun4628]

I use Timeless vit C, because of the packaging, airless and opaque, and I keep it in my fridge. Thank you for your videos, always very interesting.

[@laly6980]

I have been using Timeless 20% on and off because I was having some irritation until they came with 10% which is perfect! No problems at all!

[@veronicaivanova]

Thank you for this video! What do you think of the LRP vitamin C serum?

[@urnumberonefan22]

Thank you for this video!! 😇

[@kateherbert3050]

Thank you such a great informative video ❤ any chance you can review the aspect skincare range? Lv to get your thoughts on this skincare line I am using

[@lisawilson2701]

Timeless 20 % has helped my hyperpigmentation a lot I'll always use it

[@drpeggyhudson]

I’ve been using SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic every morning for about 15 years. Love it!!! ❤ 7:59

[@Nosdollgia]

CE Ferulic by Skinceauticals is my absolute favorite. One of the only vitamin c products that doesn’t irritate my skin.

[@victoriawhipple4729]

Excellent Vit C review---well done & appreciated Dr. Ellis. Confirmed my belief in the product which I use everyday in the AM. Use the Timeless product and am very happy with it---price is quite affordable & tolerate just fine.

[@balto1217]

Your thoughts on the Sunday Riley Vitamin C please!

[@nikkibrown8353]

As an aesthetician and skin care junkie I have to say Dr. Monica Scheel brightening vitamin C serum and Revision vitamin C are the best ones I’ve found.

[@mariescott2820]

I use Peter Thomas Roth Potent-C which is a 20% THD vitamin C. I do love the SC vitamin C but it always goes bad with too much left. If it stayed fresh longer I would buy it. I wish they sold it in smaller bottles. I’ve been happy with the PTR vitamin C though but not sure if it is as effective. The price is decent and it doesn’t go bad. I might try the Revision one next to see if I notice a difference with that one.

[@phouavaj]

I have used skinceuticals vitamin c before for about a year and it works. A couple of times ordered the vitamin c serum not directly from skinceuticals and it came already oxidized so I stopped using vitamin c for a while. A couple years later I found Angie hot and flashy on KZbin and she got me to try the timeless version of vitamin c. I have been using it ever since and notice a difference in my skin brightness and melasma, similar to the skinceuticals. Both work for me. The timeless brand lasts longer because of the container, the container minimizes the exposure to air. Whereas skinceuticals requires you to open the jar and dispenses the serum in a dropper form.

[@elijahmorris6314]

What are your opinions on the cosrx vitamin C 23 serum? It uses L-ascotbic acid alongside super vitamin E, looking at the ingredient list I’m confident in its antioxidant ability but do you think it would be effective at actually getting into the skin to boost collagen production?

[@graceng3871]

My favorite Vit-C serum will be Regimen Lab and Geek & Gorgeous 😊

[@summerintherockies9530]

I just ordered Timeless Skincare 20% Vitamin C + E Ferulic Acid Serum as that it is very rare to find anything in four ounces. Hopefully I consume it before it goes bad, but I will keep it in a a drawer and away from light. Thank you, Dr. Ellis!

[@db-gb5xi]

Geek and Gorgeous is supposed to have a good vit c and Versed has a couple of products with THD, their auto-save serum and their weekend glow moisturizer.

[@imandegano511]

Thank you for the knowledge you share! I’ve been loving Powerful Strength Kiehl's Vitamin C Serum. It is formulated with 12.5% Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid. What are you thoughts on Kiehl’s? Thank you!

[@patty4393]

I’ve been using Dr. Brenner Vitamin C serum for the past year and it’s made a huge difference in my skin.

[@RichardExeter]

I've been using 'Skin Deva' 20% l-ascorbic acid vit c+e with ferulic-acid serum...Keep it in the fridge and it's a very reasonable price too...Tried quite a few and this is my fave..Just wish it was easier to get in the UK.... :)

[@yvonneadrian734]

My favorite is Truth Treatment thd I mix it with Osmosis retinaldehyde once a week at night I love the results. My daytime Vitamin C is MaeLove.

[@davidle3567]

Watching this video as I apply my Timeless 20%! My other favorite is the Regimen Lab Vitamin X which has LAA with a ton of other antioxidants! So good.

[@db-gb5xi]

Yes, the Regimen Lab Vit X seems like it would be a good affordable option for those who can't do the SkinBetter one.

[@halinaboriszova8580]

Dr Ellis, what’s your opinion on Perricone MD CCC+ Ferulic Brightening Complex 20%? And Vitamin C Ester in general? Is it worth switching to it? I currently use Skinceuticals and have a rosacea prone skin. Thank you for reply!

[@lisa9916]

Timeless Vit C is my go to!😊👍🏻

[@danaconnor8255]

My favorite is Skinceuticals 10AOX...it's less than half the price of CE Ferulic

[@DallasNatureLover]

Loving the Peter Thomas Roth Potent C with 20% THD, other than the smell. Never enjoyed vitamin c serums when I used L Ascorbic acid ones. Using the much less expensive Vanicream Vitamin C with 5% THD on neck and chest.

[@angelapotter2754]

Hi Dr. Ellis, thank you so much for this video on Vit C! Extremely informative! Have you ever used the Vivier c e ferulic? I love this Vit c and how it makes my skin feel and look!

[@DrSamEllis]

I have a long time ago!

[@angelapotter2754]

@@DrSamEllis oh that’s great! Did you like it as much as Skincueticals? Which one would you recommend?

[@Jennifer-ou5me]

Great info! Sending this to my mom, lol. Currently using Skinceuticals CE Serum and so far I like it, but was very afraid to try after I had been using Paula's Choice! I was at the end of my PC serum, then developed a reaction where my ENTIRE face got swollen, red and patches of dry skin. Went to a derm and had to remove all skincare and test each product on my inner elbow. Has anyone else had a reaction to the PC Vitamin C?

[@JoanaCarina]

Thank you for the video 😊 do you no longer recommend the Finacea Azelaic acid 15% cream?

[@daniellemeuleman2398]

I love the Acure Vit C. It is THD Acsorbate and ferulic acid. I really see benefits with this.

[@KingdomIsNow]

Acure is very popular in Australia. It only costs $16.00. Everybody loves Acure.

[@BlueJean1019]

I’ve been using Timeless 20% CEF for several years now. I have noticed that the formula is much more stable since they changed the design of the bottle to eliminate air. My current bottle is a few months old, and the serum is still clear when I pump it into the palm of my hand. I do keep it in the refrigerator as well. I have not tried any of the other ones but would be open to trying the Maelove. The Skinceuticals CEF is just out of my budget but since it was the OG I can understand why you would want to stick with it. Thanks for your informative presentation!~Regina~

[@iwillstom]

Timeless lasted me forever storing it in the fridge. It was only slightly pale yellow by the time I finished the bottle. The problem was I didn’t notice any improvement in pigment or brightness. Like not even a little bit.

[@CecilPie]

Can you do a dedicated video on copper peptides?

[@brirose230]

I recently finished my first bottle of the Timeless Vitamin C (20%), which was my first experience using any vitamin C. Even though I have sensitive skin, I didn’t have any bad reaction despite using it every day from the start. I just really didn’t like the feel of it - I just felt like I was rubbing water on my face. As a result I haven’t repurchased and have been looking for something else but am having trouble finding an alternative (that is cruelty free, fragrance free and affordable).

[@nataliap4299]

Lilfox Haute C is the best!!! I’m surprised no one talks about this

[@karinafaro4155]

Have you tried La Roche-Posay 10% Pure Vitamin C Face Serum? How does it compare with the other products you mentioned?

[@luzguerrero1530]

Thank you for the good information. Is vitamin incompatible with titanium dioxide?.

[@nataliehughes4143]

Hi, Dr. Sam. Plz recommend a sunscreen for the face that wears well under makeup. Ty in advance..

[@ZAKAT00123]

I have been using vitamin c in the morning since my late 20s so just about 30 years ago. Adding peptides in the morning and not sure if it should go on before or after the c? What is your recommendation. Thank you from Boston, MA

[@tarapeterson4489]

I'm very new to Vitamin C in a skincare routine so I'm doing some research before i make a purchase. I was gifted a bottle of "Scentuals Vitamin C Facial Serum" and would love to hear your opinion of it maybe just based on the ingredients? I know it's very much on the lower end of the price range compared to the ones you mentioned but would still love a professional opinion. Thanks!

[@parinazaz4044]

What are your thoughts on the Sephora brand vitamin C+E?

[@sandiolives4114]

The COSRX Vitamin C didn't go brown on me, I used it for 5 months and always had it in the refrigerator. It's cruelty free and $25.

[@heathersams5303]

Timeless completely changed my skin. I no longer struggle with acne at all!

[@DrSamEllis]

So happy for you!

[@hwin743]

Super helpful. Thank you! I’ve tried Maelove (didn’t see results), Skinceuticals (did see results but slightly irritated my skin I think), and keep coming back to Revision for the results + no irritation. On another note, could you do an advanced sunscreen video, where you talk about whether sunscreen is needed when the UV level is 0-2 for the whole day? Sunscreen often irritates my rosacea prone skin and so it would be nice to skip on days (or specific hours of the day) when I actually don’t need it. Not to mention the cost of sunscreen. And how to reapply sunscreen over makeup once or twice or even three times per day? And which sunscreens and techniques are best for reapply over makeup? And maybe do you really really need sunscreen after 5?

[@robyncoward2999]

😊

[@nancypadilla3509]

I was using skinceuticals Vit C a while ago and decided to stop because as soon as it started getting yellow, my skin was very irritated. I am using the vit c from dermatology. My skin love it❤️

[@MYG79X]

And skinceuticals raised the price for the Vit C from 169 to 182.....

[@rosenivanov7028]

Hi, which one would be the best for oily skin?

[@elizabethlisafischer2861]

Thank you so much for this great information! Just wanted to add that in my family, Grandma, mom and my self, we've always used Johnson & Johnson baby wash & shampoo as a cleanser. Both mom and grandma always looked years younger than their age so that is why I started using it in high school. Just wanted to hear what your thoughts are.

[@nobodynothing2594]

J&J is in billion dollar lawsuit for their cancer cases sing baby powder etc. For years they’ve been culprits 😂

[@Snuzzled]

It sounds like great skin is in your genes, and you'll have even better skin if you use a better, less harsh cleanser.

[@frankie9953]

Thoughts on the Truth Treatment THC Vit C? My Dr. Dennis Gross was basically this burnt orange color when I got it. I kept using it because I assumed it was okay...dang. Should've just retuned it.

[@sebastianvictoria2923]

Hi doctor. Im using vitamin C + hyaluronic acid and neurosensine cream from La Roche Posay. Do you hace any comments about that formulation? Thanks

[@jossrichards-daniels1692]

I’m about to start incorporating vitamin c in my morning routine, but I use CeraVe’s Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser, which has 4% benzoyl peroxide. Is it okay to still use them at the same time because it gets rinsed off as a cleanser? So glad to have found your videos!!

[@dlopes27]

I have the same question too

[@sandraperry4221]

Love the Skinceuticals C E Ferulic, makes my skin look brighter and more youthful. I would like to incorporate a retinoid to my skincare regimen but not sure which product is best (that won’t irritate my skin). Also, included in my skincare regimen SkinMedica Advanced Essential Serum ( usually using at night). The cost has become excessive and am wondering is this product worth the cost or is their a better product?

[@magpiesneedle2575]

If this helps, I was using Tretinoin (Dermatica/in UK) which is prescription level. After 8 months the benefits did not outweigh the negatives. I did some research and watched some channels I trust and am using retinaldehyde. It is the closest to prescription level as it only has to convert in the body to pure. But it is more gentle. What I use is Medik8 Crystal Retinal. What is good about the brand that it’s is very clear and has 5 levels of strength. The 1 is for sensitive for skin. Otherwise level 3 is the starting point, then, 6, 10:and 20 (only available through clinical consultation). I’ve used several things and I and my skin are happy with this. Remember everyone’s skin is different. Oh, each level becomes more expensive, and here in the UK level 3 is £49 (sorry don’t know conversations), BUT each tube will last 3 months, so £13 a month, not so bad. Good luck ✌🏼

[@stephenknight6562]

Dr. Have you not tried Paula’s resist serum in the dark blue bottle??

[@cristels5927]

Greetings Dr Sam- I use a cleanser with benzoyl peroxide in the morning, tone, and then apply my Phlorentin CF is that ok?

[@galato4234]

Please share your thoughts about Vichy Liftactiv Vitamin C Skin Brightening 15%. Thank you.

[@Joy-wx5wd]

Dr Karam’s Vit C is an amazing product!

[@elmajahan1256]

Where can I get this product?

[@donteverfckwithmyvibe]

I started using skinceuticals ce ferulic a little over a year ago. The results are not immediate, but people began complimenting me on my skin a few months in. It will go on sale 10 or 15% off once or twice a year, so try to purchase then, but I think it's worth it.

[@Linallarii]

Do u find it irritating? Or sting?

[@donteverfckwithmyvibe]

@@Linallarii no

[@jayedwardsuk5984]

Does Vit C actually degrade Peptides? I'm using l Ascorbic Acid powder mixed with two other ingredients I apply then wiat then add peptides, non copper. I'm conflicted although I do use both every morning...

[@LuMonsa.27]

Girls, I use Monsia's Perfect 10 a lot, it's essential for cleansing oily residue and removing makeup, the best thing is how soft and moisturized it leaves your skin. I wouldn't change it for anything, I recommend them💗😄

[@hasiburrahman4272]

You are so gorgeous

[@stephaniemaynard8450]

I haven’t watched this yet (at a docs appt so definitely will later!) but took a look at the products you mentioned…I didn’t see It Cosmetics there. I happened down a rabbit hole last night and discovered they just launched a Vit C serum for night time use. Has this crossed your radar yet? Is It Cosmetics a brand you ever use/recommend?

[@cynthialopez2084]

They use so much fragrance in their products. 😢

[@rashn2065]

I have sun spots that I have been trying to correct since 4 years. I am using mandelic acid, azealic acid, sunscreen but don't see any visible changes in them Do I need to get some procedures done at the dermatologist to fade them and keep using skincare at home to prevent them ? Or do these products actually work and make the sunspots fade ? I would like to put my money where it gets me the most benefit. I hope you see my comment 🤗

[@mirandagraham1935]

What do you think Anfisa an-dew? I recently switched from skinbetter alto to an-dew.

[@jcb0990]

Thank you for the helpful video! If you have time to answer questions, can a vitamin C serum be used after a benzoyl peroxide face wash?

[@DrSamEllis]

I generally recommend using them at separate times of day to prevent possible oxidation!

[@jcb0990]

@@DrSamEllis thank you very much for your reply and recommendation!

[@rochellescrivener961]

Does it actually make a significant difference to redness? I had dermaplaning done a few days ago and she told me that I have some damage to my skin barrier and have some redness (which I’ve noticed lately too) and recommended a vitamin c serum to correct it.

[@ELP1017]

Surprised to see no comments about vitamin c causing breakouts. I can't use any skincare with vit c in it without having horrible breakouts that take forever to clear up. My skin just does not like it.

[@anga8122]

Hi Dr Ellis!! Is it possible that ascorbic acid gives you blackheads?? I feel like after a couple of weeks of using it I get blackheads in weird places like the middle of the cheek. It only happens with ascorbic acid, other forms of vitamin c like thd won’t do that to me. Thank you Dr!

[@donnaaddy7265]

Your opinion of Drunk Elephant’s Vitamin C? Excellent educational video. Thank you

[@urbanfabchic]

I like Glow Maker from Mae Love, but will try Inde Wilde Vit C. Heard about it from Doctorly. It was one of Dr. Shah’s favorite products of the year.

[@truthful2293]

Will using an essence prior to applying ce/f help with further penetration of the vitamin C or will it interfere with its efficacy?

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Hi, is it unsafe to apply vitamin c complex serum to our forearm? I love this stuff!

[@DrSamEllis]

Not at all

[@Roll587]

Do you think the tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate in the Allies of Skin Peptides and Antioxidants moisturizer is enough for a morning vitamin c? Or should a separate product be used? Thanks for all the info!

[@Rubye269]

Would do you mean with enough? If you just want added protection from antioxidants, yes. If you deal with melasma or some other skin conditions where vitamin c can help probably consider a extra serum. A good concentration is between 10% (for sensitive skin) and 20%.

[@michelecarroll7335]

Thoughts on Mad Hippie?

[@manelkhalfaoui3167]

Can we transfer the vitamine C serums from dropper packaging to a pump packaging we buy on our ones without alerting the product and what would be the best recommendation for pump packagings ?

[@rohinijacob4756]

I use skin assistance brand vitamin c , it’s oil based. I have dry skin. Is it a good brand.

[@alicenorris7060]

GM, How do you know which SkinCeuticals product to use, CE ferulic or Phloretin CF.

[@db-gb5xi]

Dr Jenny Liu has a video reviewing all of their vit c serums.

[@AngelWings1983]

What is your opinion of Ordinary’s Vitamin C powder being added to a moisturizer or a serum ? It is the most affordable form of Vitamin C

[@HairFanatics]

I've been using the Ordinary L asorbic powder for a number of years. I mix it with the Ordinary's Resveratrol 3% and Matrixl 10% HA. Be mindful about the amount of powder you mix; too much will feel gritty on the skin. I have reccomend this to many clients who don't mind being a "mixologist," and unless you have sensitive skin, you too may have good results.

[@laurieswanson1595]

Hi there. Have y tried or like drmtly vit cef