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When cold and flu season hits, one of the most popular ways to support immunity is by getting enough vitamin C. Whether you take it as a daily supplement, sip it in a fresh fruit-and-vegetable juice, or enjoy a classic tablet dissolved in water, vitamin C has proven to be a powerful ally. As an antioxidant, it helps neutralize free radicals—unstable molecules that can damage cells and weaken the immune system. By reducing this oxidative stress, vitamin C supports your body’s natural defenses and helps keep your cells functioning at their best.

But what about using vitamin C for your skin? Similar to the way it works within your body, applying a vitamin C serum to your skin “fights harmful free radicals (toxins) that come in contact with your skin from external sources like air pollution, or from inside the body as a result of normal processes like your metabolism,” explains Harvard Health Publishing. 

In addition to being a powerful antioxidant, topical drugstore vitamin C serums can also help to fade age spots, eliminate the appearance of wrinkles and more. With so many products on shelves to choose from, we’ve gathered a few of our favorite—and most affordable!—vitamin C serums you can find. 

The e.l.f. vitamin c serum is an affordable staple

We can always count on e.l.f. to deliver high quality products at a low price, and their Bright Icon Vitamin C + E + Ferulic Serum is an affordable addition to your skincare routine. At just $17, this product claims to reduce the appearance of dark spots as well as smooth and even out skin tone and texture. You can find it at Ulta, CVS, Target or on Amazon.  

L’Oreal comes through with a powerful drugstore vitamin C serum

For years, L’Oreal has been rolling out affordable products with real results, and their L’Oreal Paris Revitalift 12% Vitamin C + E + Salicylic Serum for $28 packs a punch. The Vitamin C in this serum protects your skin against free radicals, while the salicylic acid promises “younger-looking skin.” Try it out for yourself when you purchase from Target or Amazon ($31). 

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Keep it simple with CeraVe vitamin C

CeraVe has been recommended by dermatologists for years, and their Skin Renewing Vitamin C Serum is a great addition to their lineup. Fragrance free and gentle, even those with sensitive skin types can enjoy the benefits of this serum—though always be sure to patch test before trying out a new product. Costing between $24 and $29 depending on where you buy, you can find this serum at Target, Walgreens or Ulta.

The Ordinary makes a fan-favorite serum

Over the last few years, The Ordinary has risen in popularity due to their effective yet affordable products—and their Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2% Serum with Pure L-Ascorbic Acid is no exception! For just around $8, you can enjoy all the benefits this product has to offer. Find it at Ulta or Sephora. 

Keep it classic with Vanicream drugstore vitamin C

There’s a reason why Vanicream has been your grandmother’s go-to for years! Vanicream Vitamin C Face Serum with Ceramides for Sensitive Skin is gentle, effective and won’t leave your credit card crying. Find it at Target for just $18. 

Beautiful, radiant skin doesn’t have to come with a luxury price tag. With these affordable vitamin C serums, you can give your skin the nourishment and protection it deserves—all while staying true to your budget. Here’s to glowing skin and feeling confident in the skin you’re in!

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