Vitamin C

Vitamin C is the antioxidant most worth building a routine around. It supports the look of brighter, more even skin, helps defend against daily environmental stress, and over time improves the appearance of dark spots and dullness. It's a morning ingredient, used under SPF, the two work together, with vitamin C neutralizing free radicals that sunscreen alone doesn't catch. Look for stable formulations, store them away from light and heat (vitamin C oxidizes , if your serum turns dark orange, it's past its best), and introduce gradually if your skin is sensitive. It pairs beautifully with niacinamide and hyaluronic acid. For tone and spots specifically, see our Pigmentation & Dark Spots edit.