Does vitamin C serum work?

What we can tell you today: how thoroughly this has been studied.

Well studied

5 studies, including one that brings together the results of several trials in people.

5 Repeated evidence 1 study

3 Small study in people 4 studies

This says how thoroughly something has been studied — not whether it works for you. What each study actually found is in the study itself, and in the plain-language write-ups we are adding.

Appears under: Skin aging

The studies

5 Repeated evidence Efficacy of topical vitamin C in melasma and photoaging: A systematic review.
2023 · Journal of cosmetic dermatology · 139 participants
3 Small study in people A clinical evaluation of the efficacy and tolerability of a novel topical antioxidant formulation featuring vitamin C, astaxanthin, and fermented turmeric.
2026 · Journal of cosmetic dermatology · 32 participants
3 Small study in people Anti-aging and brightening effects of a topical treatment containing vitamin C, vitamin E, and raspberry leaf cell culture extract: A split-face, randomized controlled trial.
2020 · Journal of cosmetic dermatology · manufacturer helped fund this
3 Small study in people Fractional microneedle radiofrequency with the application of vitamin C, E, and ferulic acid serum for neck skin rejuvenation: a prospective, double-blinded, split-neck, placebo-controlled trial.
2025 · The Journal of dermatological treatment · 31 participants
3 Small study in people Advances in dermatology using DNA aptamer "Aptamin C" innovation: Oxidative stress prevention and effect maximization of vitamin C through antioxidation.
2021 · Journal of cosmetic dermatology