Like I said above, skin tints aren’t normally my thing. There are a select few that I like, but even then, I tend to wear a bit of concealer underneath because they just don’t offer the amount of coverage that I like. As someone who struggles with acne, hyperpigmentation, and texture, skin tints can sometimes accentuate that and merely put a sheer coating over it. I tried this one out in the hope that I would find a winner and could potentially ditch the foundation.
U Beauty’s definitely does what it says—it’s extremely hydrating and breathable, so I really liked that aspect. It’s also really easy to blend into the skin and can definitely be built up, but I found that it wasn’t groundbreaking enough to change my mind about skin tints. I still wore a bit of concealer with this formula, which helped, but I think the coverage was just a tad too sheer for me. Granted, I only gave it a test for a day, so maybe I’ll find that I really love it after building up coverage another time.
Overall, though, it’s definitely one of the best skin tints I’ve used, and the formula is creamy and lightweight. If you are really into skin tints, I would definitely recommend this one, as it offers a great color match and gives your skin a nice dewy appearance. With a little bronzer, it even adds subtle warmth and radiance to the skin.
The inspiration behind the serum: “Initially, we did not set out to build a skincare brand. We set out to understand what was happening on Ann Marie’s skin when she noticed lightened patches on her back. During that exploration, we discovered a novel compound called malassezin, which can target hyperpigmentation while also improving the skin’s moisture barrier function. Ultimately, we decided that the highest and best use for malassezin was to formulate it into a revolutionary consumer skincare product to target dark spots and skin damage caused by aging.” — Mike Einziger, co-founder, Mother Science
What makes it unique: “Molecular Hero Serum is unique because it contains our proprietary ingredient, malassezin, which is totally new to skincare. Novel ingredients are extraordinarily rare in the consumer world because they are rare to discover and challenging to develop. The serum can replace many of the products consumers are currently using for skin brightening and globally improve skin texture and the skin’s moisture barrier. It’s unprecedented for one serum to be so versatile and effective.” — Ann Marie Simpson Einziger, co-founder, Mother Science
How long it took to develop: “We spent over six years of research and development to ensure that malassezin was both safe and effective. Science takes time when conducted with rigor, so we worked at the speed of science. We went above and beyond the standard battery of product testing. The process of scientific discovery is something we love. It literally kept us awake at night, and we would wake each other up to share papers or talk about study results. Our mantra as a couple is to learn and share as much as we can. We learned a lot more about malassezin than we ever could have imagined, and we’re excited to share what we learned with the world.” — Einziger
How malassezin works: “Malassezin is a naturally occurring molecule found on skin with dramatic brightening and dark-spot benefits. Malassezin works through a novel mechanism of action to address hyperpigmentation in three ways. It reduces excess melanin production, decreases melanin transport to the upper layers of skin, and minimizes melanin transfer to skin cells. Additionally, malassezin improves the skin’s moisture barrier, improving the texture of skin and enabling skin to hold onto more moisture.” — Pearl Grimes, MD, chief dermatologist, Mother Science
How it differs from vitamin C: “Most dark-spot ingredients are tyrosinase inhibitors, but malassezin is not a tyrosinase inhibitor and instead works through a completely novel mechanism to decrease the appearance of dark spots and improve texture, fine lines, and wrinkles. Malassezin is a 10-times more powerful antioxidant than vitamin C. It helps neutralize free radicals, which in turn reduces the appearance of lines and wrinkles and helps prevent the formation of future dark spots. Malassezin is also completely stable whereas common brightening ingredients such as vitamin C degrade quickly when exposed to air and light.” — Grimes
Page Six may be compensated and/or receive an affiliate commission if you buy through our links.
When it comes to celebrity-approved beauty buys, SkinStore has plenty of discounts in store.
And you won’t have to be friends with a star to save during the retailer’s Friends & Family sale — all you’ll need is the promo code FRIENDS for 30% off some of A-listers’ favorite skincare, haircare and makeup finds.
Among the over 5,000 products on deep discount? Everything from a Kylie Jenner-approved contouring formula to products featured in our roundups of celeb-loved vitamin C serums and face masks.
Below, shop eight on-sale finds tried and tested by everyone from Hailey Bieber to Kim Kardashian.
But with the sale ending on April 18 at 9 a.m. ET — and buzzy products already selling out — be sure to snap up the savings fast.
SkinStore
Want Hailey Bieber’s beauty secrets, stat? The star called the original version of this vitamin C serum a “holy grail” product that “changed [her] skin” in a YouTube video. This iteration comes packed with SPF, in addition to vitamin C.
SkinStore
Jennifer Aniston and Kate Hudson both reportedly use this facial toning device on their famous faces. Save over $80 on the at-home tool, which claims to combat “wrinkles and sagging skin,” per the product description.
SkinStore
While Kylie Jenner admitted in a recent Vogue “Beauty Secrets” video that she’s wearing a “lot less” makeup these days, this foundation still made the cut for her new, pared-down routine. She swiped some on with a brush, using it as a “very thin bronzer” for contouring.
SkinStore
Even Carrie Bradshaw needs her beauty sleep. Sarah Jessica Parker showed off her bedside table on Instagram Stories in 2021, giving followers a glimpse of this popular blend of lavender, chamomile and vetiver.
Sulwashoo
Kristen Bell loves this mask so much, she just can’t “Let It Go” without squeezing out every last drop. “I press the mask back together because it’s still juicy and use it again in a couple of days, so I can at least get two uses out of it and I feel a little bit better about the price tag,” she once told Self, calling the product ” the best I’ve ever come across.”
SkinStore
Celebrity hairstylist Antoinette Hill used this tool — which has drawn comparisons to the Dyson Airwrap — to perfect Zendaya’s swept-back updo at the 2022 Oscars.
SkinStore
April flowers can come in the form of hand cream, thanks to this discounted rose-filled moisturizer loved by stars like Julia Roberts and Jennifer Lopez.
SkinStore
Brooke Shields once said she treats her famous arches to this bestselling Grande Cosmetics serum, which is packed with vitamins, peptides and amino acids.
If you ask virtually any dermatologist or skin expert out there about powerhouse skin ingredients, we’d bet the big bucks that vitamin C would make the cut.
In fact, the dermatologist we consulted said it’s the “OG of antioxidants.”
The ultra-powerful nutrient, impressively, is incorporated into several serums on the market and, like an Oreo, is the “good stuff” in the middle (following your best cleanser and preceding your creamy moisturizer, of course).
“Serums are great because they are vehicles for the actives that you use on your skin for intentional skincare- the practice of using a product to make a change in your skin,” board-certified dermatologist and founder of Visha Skincare, Purvisha Patel, MD, told the Post.
Best known for its natural brightening effects, vitamin C has been put through clinical trials and proven to aid in a variety of feel-good benefits, too, which Dr. Patel outlines — along with everything to know about using a vitamin C serum — ahead of listing the 18 best vitamin C serums we tested.
What are the benefits of vitamin C?
“Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that prevents free radicles from breaking down collagen and elastin,” Dr. Patel explains. “You can tell if your serum is working after a week of using.”
She adds that your skin should be “smoother, softer and more glowy” and “maybe a few dark spots lighter, as if you have had an exfoliation” upon consistent use.
“Over months there should be a decrease in dark spots and a thickening of the skin,” she adds. “There may be fewer breakouts as well.”
Are all vitamin C serums created equal?
No, not all vitamin C serums are on the same level of efficacy. This is because vitamin C is labeled as an “unstable ingredient,” with serums containing L-ascorbic acid being the most active form of the vitamin.
“L ascorbic acid is the water-soluble form [of vitamin C],” Dr. Patel explains. “It’s most easily absorbed by the skin, unstable in sunlight and air (oxidizes) and is tricky in formulation; this results in the different qualities of vitamin C serums.”
Dr. Patel adds that esterified vitamin C is “much more stable in air and sunlight and not as irritating, but not as strong as L ascorbic acid.” That said, the difference in serum qualities “depends on concentration, formulation and packaging,” according to Dr. Patel.
How do I choose a vitamin C serum suited for my skin type?
Dr. Patel outlines different skin types and key ingredients to look for in a vitamin C serum:
Dry or sensitive skin: Use a vitamin C serum with rose hip seed extract, sea buckhorn oil or vitamin E to help soothe the skin
Oily skin: Use a non-water-based serum (opt for a creamier one instead) to help prevent the serum from evaporating
Acne-prone skin: Look for retinol, AHAs and BHAs, along with anti-bacterial properties
Mature skin: Look for ferulic acid, retinol, vitamin E and skin discoloration correctors
How often should I use a vitamin C serum?
To follow the dermatologist-recommended skincare routine of cleanser, serum, moisturizer and sunscreen, Dr. Patel recommends using a serum twice daily.
How we tested vitamin C serums
I’ve been testing 26 vitamin C serums for months on my dry to sensitive skin. Though — and confirmed by Dr. Patel — using a vitamin C-infused moisturizer is a less irritating formulation than a serum, I found 17 of the best serums that didn’t irritate my skin, highlighted pros and cons to help guide your decision (recommendations we would give IRL) and a list of some serums we tested that didn’t make the cut.
Here are some helpful things to note before reading our tried-and-true favorites:
Everyone has different skin types: As highlighted by Dr. Patel above, skincare ingredients depend on the skin type itself. This review is based on my skin (dry and sensitive) though, using Dr. Patel’s expertise as a compass, we grouped some of our favorites into other skin types.
You don’t have to splurge to confer benefits: The best vitamin C serum isn’t necessarily the most expensive, per Dr. Patel. “A lot of times the extra cost of a skincare product has to do with exorbitant or fancy packaging, with packaging not being a good indicator of the quality of product inside.”
Talk to your doctor if you’re experiencing any serious issues: Though we consulted with a dermatologist to give you an edit of the best vitamin C serums, everyone’s skin is different. Speak with your doctor if you have any underlying conditions or concerns before using a serum.
Pros: The smoothest serum tested; has a pump dispenser; gave my skin a balanced, clear and healthy glow
Cons: Fragrance may be too profuse for some, though I found it refreshing
Glow Recipe’s Vitamin C Dark Spot Treatment Serum isn’t our favorite just because of its pretty pink packaging and the word “glow” in its name. This is the crème de la crème of serums because it nourished my skin, left it balanced and left no irritation.
Not only does it come out pink (!!!) but it also is a certified Clean at Sephora product, vegan and includes guava, tranexamic and ferulic acids and five forms of vitamin C to brighten and naturally glow the skin.
Pros: Super hydrating, has a fresh scent that smells like lotion, has a roller application that massages your skin
Cons: None to speak of
As a close second, La Roche-Posay’s Pure Vitamin C Face Serum is delightful. I was impressed with its ability to instantly nourish my skin and absolutely loved its roller application that’s a step-up from the potion-like serum dispensers that tend to be too runny.
This serum has a fresh scent that even those who prefer no fragrance would love. And, we have no complaints.
Pros: Has a pump dispenser, little to no fragrance, makes the skin look balanced and bright, has a gentle firming effect toward the outer corner of the eyes, super nourishing
Cons: None to speak of
Rounding out this edit of the top three best serums is Biossance’s Squalane + 10% Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum. Not only is its luxe packaging fit for your bathroom counter at all times but it also made my skin look incredibly balanced and bright.
This serum even had a firming effect near the outer corner of my eyes, which is likely effective for anyone with crow’s feet. Additionally, its moisturizer-like consistency and impressive eradication of dark spots make it lovely for sensitive skin types.
Pros: Lightweight, super nourishing, easy to blend, balances the skin, spa-like quality
Cons: None to speak of
If I could bottle up Dr. Barbara Sturm’s The Good C Vitamin C Serum and take it with me everywhere, I seriously would.
Though up there in price, this serum is impeccable and delivers spa-like quality I didn’t know existed. Specifically, it’s best designed for sensitive skin types because it includes aloe vera, hyaluronic acid and vitamin C — the major triage of skin soothers, per dermatologists.
Pros: Lightweight, great for sensitive skin, offers the skin a dewy glow
Cons: None to speak of
When I first realized the Herbivore Botanicals NOVA 15% Vitamin C + Turmeric Brightening Serum existed, I jumped for joy. Turmeric is a superfood ingredient that my cousin adds to his oatmeal each morning, and I had a good hunch this formulation was going to be a ‘superfood’ for my skin — and I was right.
Notably, this gentle vitamin C serum helps target dullness and dark spots, along with an uneven skin tone, bringing a cocktail of benefits to your skin’s surface. It’s worth every penny and a wonder for sensitive skin.
Pros: Provides a glistening effect to the skin, perfectly and precisely drops the serum onto your face
Cons: Pricey, has a slightly strong smell
Meet the cult-favorite of all vitamin C serums. SkinCeuticals’ C E Ferulic with 15% L-Ascorbic Acid is a tried-and-true favorite of many and it made our cut because of its inclusion of L-Ascorbic Acid — the most tangible form of vitamin C, per dermatologists.
Though not our all-time fave, it does feel raw and real when using. It made my skin truly glisten and the on-the-dot application was one of the best we’ve seen.
Pros: Dermatologist-approved skincare brand, has a fresh scent, brightens problem areas and hydrates the skin
Cons: Impractical packaging
Oh, CeraVe, how I love you so. I’ve been using the brand’s cleanser for years and wasn’t surprised at the slightest when its Skin Renewing Vitamin C Serum was one of the ones to come up on top.
Notably, its fresh scent just makes you want to use it every day and it effectively brightened and nourished my skin. For less than $40, you can’t go wrong.
Pros: Amazing at brightening the skin, has a pump dispenser, great for waking your skin up in the morning, has a pump protector for no spills (which is great for travel)
Cons: None to speak of
When I first came across Farmacy’s 10% Waterless Vitamin C Serum, I knew I was going to like it. A serum that includes vitamin C and up-cycled tangerine peel? Sounds like facial heaven.
As someone with dry skin, this is the best for this skin type because it includes ascorbic acid and 1% alpha arbutin (a brightening active that targets dark spots) that nourished my skin to the T. Though it’s not the only serum in this edit that works well on dry skin, it’s a thirst-quenching one I kept resorting back to.
Pros: Consistent at brightening and hydrating, works well on sensitive skin, smooth and refreshing
Cons: None to speak of
Tula’s Brightening Treatment Drops are literal drops of ocean-cool refreshment onto your skin. It’s the serum I would choose if I need to really wake up in the morning and over time, gives some of the best, glowy results.
Pros: Incredibly refreshing; has a clear, fresh and subtle scent; brightened my entire face; has a pump dispenser
Cons: None to speak of
Containing AHAs (which Dr. Patel recommends for those struggling with acne), Tatcha’s Violet-C Brightening Serum was an all-around great brightener, refresher and nurturer to my skin. Not to mention, its packaging is divine.
Pros: Gave my skin a your-skin-but-better natural luminescence
Cons: Has a fairly strong scent
StriVectin has gained a fan following for its anti-aging properties, notably for its Super-C Retinol Brighten & Correct Vitamin C Serum containing — you guessed it — retinol, a powerhouse ingredient to help reverse and correct signs of aging.
Though I’m in my early 20s, I enjoy using a retinol-based product every now and then to protect my skin. I enjoyed its natural glisten that wasn’t too shimmery, too.
Pros: Has a sweet citrus scent, gives your skin an immaculate brightness that stood out from the rest
Cons: May be too shiny for some
Mario Badescu certainly knew what he was doing when his Vitamin C Serum was born. Wow is an understatement; I expected it to work well, but I was floored when I noticed how bright and glowy it left my skin.
It did, however, leave my skin a bit shinier than I’d like after using, but if you want to see great brightening effects, this serum is your best bet.
Cons: Requires some mixing before use (but it’s fun, we promise)
I’ve been one of Drunk Elephant’s No. 1 fans for years and have been using the C-Firma Fresh Day Serum regularly since I wrote a review on the product. It turns you into a bathroom mixologist and has one of the freshest, high-quality formulations yet.
Aside from its revitalized feel, it always leaves my skin plump and healthy, which is the ideal texture before catching those ZZZs.
Pros: Smooth, fragrance-free, great for blurring out pores and treating problem areas
Cons: Could be more hydrating
Kiehl’s Since 1851 has a Powerful-Strength Vitamin C Serum that lives up to its confident name. Despite it not being the most hydrating we tested, it applies super smoothly and, in turn, helps mitigate the appearance of pores and treat problem areas (fine lines, we’re looking at you) simultaneously.
Pros: Has a plump, thick texture that’s ultra-hydrating, has a pump dispenser, great at balancing out the skin tone
Cons: None to speak of
Murad’s Vita-C Glycolic Brightening Serum is a dream come true for anyone who’s been looking for a cloud-like serum that’s thick but not clumpy. It’s so hydrating, thanks to its jelly consistency, and was impressively effective at making some red spots on my face look polished and balanced.
Pros: Has the best consistency we tested; good at giving an all-around, sweet glow
Cons: Has a slightly strong floral scent, but nothing unusable
Rose Inc. shocked me with its ability to produce a natural-looking glow. Seriously, if you happen to skip your cleanser and moisturizer one day and just use the brand’s Radiant Reveal Clean Brightening Vitamin C Serum, you’ll be A-OK.
It’s not too thick and not too runny, so it’s the Goldilocks winner of serums. Plus, its packaging is minimal and sealed, anti-bacteria safe.
Pros: Incredible at eliminating dark spots on consistent use, brightens the skin well, sleek packaging, precise application
Cons: None to speak of
Nobody likes dark circles and when you need it most (*cough cough* all-nighters), Josie Maran’s Argan Bright Skin Vitamin C Serum is the one we recommend most.
Despite not having chronically dark circles or spots, I did notice a difference underneath my eyes when I used it consistently. And, for less than $70, I would have guessed it was more than $100.
Razor burn is truly the worst. Whether it’s on your legs, chest, neck, or face, it’s never fun. But what if you could kiss razor burn goodbye?
Well, there isn’t a fool-proof way to eliminate nicks and scrapes, as razor burn has to do with your skin, hair, and sensitivity. But, it also has to do with the type of grooming products you use. That’s why we scoured the web for the best shaving creams for men.
Top brands such as Aveeno, Gilette, and Kiehl’s dominated our searches, and real-life customers were there to back up their skincare claims.
Find our full list of the best men’s shaving creams for razor burn, ingrown hairs, and sensitive skin below. Just remember, even though it worked for someone doesn’t mean it will be your perfect match. So always read ingredients, check out reviews, and patch test the product before applying it all over.
Target
Men, if you have sensitive skin, this is the shaving gel for you. It’s made without alcohols or dyes and only provides the most comfortable and closest shave. The formula also softens stubble and protects against razor burn and minor irritations.
Customer review: “Great smooth feeling after shaving. My wife and I both use it. Great for sensitive skin. Target has the best price for two-packs unless you order bulks online.”
ULTA Beauty
Smooth on this Kiehl’s shave cream and say hello to this all-encompassing product. The menthol provides the skin with an instant refreshing feeling, the camphor helps combat oily skin and the sesame oil helps soften the skin.
Customer review: “I have a touch beard and oily skin so It can be hard to find a shaving cream that does not clog my pores but still gives me a close shave. Kiehl’s Ultimate Brushless Shave Cream White Eagle is the answer. A close no-nick shave. Love this product!”
Gilette
Cleanse and nourish your facial hair at the same time with King C. Gillette shave gel. You can shave and edge your beard with ease while the transparent non-foaming gel allows for full transparency. Lubricants also actively protect your skin the entire shave.
Customer review: “I have tried different shaving gels and foam. I have not tried a clear shaving gel before, but I got King C. Gillette Transparent shaving gel. You don’t have to use a whole lot to cover all of your face. The gel didn’t dry out my skin like the foam does or have a strong smell like other shaving gel. Made shaving easier, cleaner, and my face and neck don’t have razor burn at all.”
Amazon
This Cremo shave cream is truly next level. It’s “impossibly slick” formula leaves skin smooth while providing you with an impeccably close, comfortable shave.
Customer review: “I have been using Cremo Shave Cream for years. I absolutely love it. I first used the Classic, then went to the Refreshing Mint and now I tried the Silver Water & Birch; which is now my absolute favorite scent for first thing in the morning. I highly recommend Cremo, the tube literally lasts for months.”
Target
This seven-ounce Aveeno shave gel with oat is made to hydrate and protect the skin. So kick razor bumps and irritation to the curb. Instead, welcome oat, vitamin E and moisturizing lubricants with open arms.
Customer review: “Even just one use, I loved the lather and also really love that it’s fragrance-free. The oat component is super awesome since shaving my face is tough on my skin. Highly recommend!”
Target
Barbasol is a classic, and sometimes that’s exactly what you need. It features a thick and rich formula that lathers onto the skin.
Customer review: “Love this product! I’ve been using Barbasol for years. Great product for both men and women leaving a smooth clean shave.”
Amazon
Bath & Body Works is known for its captivating fragrances, and now, its shave gels. Made with a blend of cedar leaf, amber must, black pepper, aloe, and witch hazel, this gel provides a protective cushion for your face. So go ahead and shave away!
Customer review: “My husband says this is the best shaving cream he’s ever used. I originally bought this as a stocking stuffer and two months later he tells me he needed more.”
The Body Shop
Tested on men and not animals, The Body Shop shaving cream softens whiskers to give you a smooth post-beard shave or stubble-eliminator. Best of all, it’s formulated with maca root to keep your skin moisturized and soft.
Customer review: “This softens the whiskers and allows a smooth shave. Great finish with skin feeling smooth and refreshed every time.”
Dollar Shave Club
No one likes a harsh, rough shave. Nicks and cuts are never fun. Thankfully, Dollar Shave Club’s shave cream leaves skin soft and hydrated, which minimizes irritation, tugging, and pulling.
Customer review: “I’ve been shopping around for a good shaving cream for a while. Most felt like thin lotion that left my face feeling scratched and irritated. This one is a thick, cushioned cream that somehow made my shave even closer than any other product. It also has some menthol in it, so it gives a nice minty tingle during and after the shave.”
Amazon
With Harry’s, your razor will glide with ease to give you a close shave. Best of all, the cream sits close to your face allowing you to see where you’ve been and where you’re going.
Customer review: “Nice shaving cream. It has a slight eucalyptus cooling sensation that makes me think some guys or gals won’t be able to use it if they have highly sensitive skin. I liked it and use other mentholated products so it was familiar to me. Most shaving cream makes my skin break out with pimples, but this one doesn’t. It doesn’t actually lather much, but it provides a smooth and close shave without drying out your skin. I use a small dab in the palm of one hand, then use a wet hand to emulsify it between my hands then apply it to my face and neck. Very nice product.”
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
Cookie
Duration
Description
cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics
11 months
This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional
11 months
The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary
11 months
This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-others
11 months
This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance
11 months
This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
viewed_cookie_policy
11 months
The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
