Category Archives: Dermatology

I Entered A Beauty Pageant At 57 To Feel Better About Myself. That’s Not Exactly What Happened.

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While it’s not exactly accurate to say it was a voice from the grave that commanded me to drop out of the Mrs. America pageant, it’s not exactly a lie, either. The truth lies somewhere in between and involves a questionable photographer, a threat from a friend to disown me, and a dingy bra once worn by Ivana Trump. But for five days, I was Cathy Alter, your Mrs. Georgetown DC.

It started from a place of insecurity — never a good thing in competition. My 11-year-old son, Leo, and I were sharing a late lunch at a British-style pub in Washington’s Dupont Circle. As we sat demolishing our mozzarella sticks, I took a moment to check my phone for emails. Maybe it was my text neck, or maybe Leo had never seen me in severe profile, but whatever the case, he reached over and grabbed the hunk of loose flesh residing below my chin (a wattle, a friend would helpfully explain).

“What’s that?” he asked, tugging on it like an udder.

I don’t remember how I answered him. But I do remember trying not to cry or ask my son if he was some kind of sociopath.

“I feel bad about my neck,” Nora Ephron confessed, in the opening essay and 2006 book of the same name.

“Our faces are lies and our necks tell the truth,” she wrote. “You have to cut open a redwood tree to see how old it is, but you wouldn’t have to if it had a neck.”

These days, at 57, it’s hard not to look in the mirror without thinking about how my reflection has changed. It’s me but not me. The face is certainly mine, just more gutted, the area underneath my eyes carved out by a wood gauge. It’s less feminine, somehow, and more Founding Fathers, especially when my hair is pulled back in a Jefferson braid. We won’t discuss my burgeoning FUPA.

To accept this image would be the healthiest way to proceed. The most empowering thing I could do for myself would be to love the marionette mouth, the nasolabial folds, the “elevens” between my brows, the time stamps that make this face uniquely mine. To say, to sing, to emblazon on a T-shirt: Here I am, world! A middle-aged woman with declining looks and a soft body!

Instead, I went home and sobbed to my husband, Karl.

“All boys should think their mothers are the most beautiful women in the world,” I said through my tears. “And it’s clear that Leo does not.”

“Well,” Karl said, “what can you do about it?”

I couldn’t tell if he was answering me rhetorically or expecting me to come up with an action plan.

And I did have a plan. Or, more accurately, a wild impulse that stomped on any attempt at levelheadedness.

“I’ll tell you what I’m going to do,” I told him. “I’m going to enter a beauty pageant — and win.”

The author, who is freaked out by birds, and her son, Leo, when he was a toddler.
The author, who is freaked out by birds, and her son, Leo, when he was a toddler.

Courtesy of Cathy Alter

When I was growing up in Connecticut, my parents threw an annual Miss America party where guests bet on the contestants as if the young women were racehorses. It was the hottest ticket in town. Friends arrived in evening gowns and tuxedos, tossed $20 into the pot, and rooted for their “girl” while tearing down the 49 others.

My mother, a 6-foot-tall beauty with a penchant for red lips and backless suede dresses, could be especially vicious, taking note of a competitor’s “thunder thigh” or “unfortunate underbite” or describing a pair of straight-on nostrils as looking like “the Holland Tunnel.”

As the owner of the hippest clothing boutique the Bermuda-bag-carrying women of our sleepy town had ever seen, my mother was a true arbiter of style and presentation. By midnight, everyone was tanked and the guest who got closest to choosing the evening’s winner paraded around in a homemade sash and dime-store crown, both courtesy of my mother.

Now, decades later, I found a slew of pageants on Pageant Planet, a website that consolidates local and regional contests including Miss Earth USA, Mr. Crimson and Cream, and the pageant I wound up entering, Mrs. DC America. There were pageants for veterans, for senior citizens (I’m still a few years away from that one), for full-figured women, and one that sounds like a meta version of itself, The Empowered Woman pageant. If I were to create a montage of the contestants I saw across the site, the result would look like the b-rolls from all the Real Housewives franchises in existence.

The rules to enter the Mrs. DC America pageant were straightforward. If you were married, you could enter — which meant I could potentially be competing with child brides. Contestants are judged in three categories: the interview, the evening gown and the swimsuit. As if striding across the stage in a bathing suit and high heels wasn’t terrifying enough, there would be an opening dance number. With choreography. The winner of Mrs. DC would go on to represent the District of Columbia at the national Mrs. America Pageant in Las Vegas.

The next morning, I called one of the pageant directors. After a bit of chitchat, I learned that I had a little less than five weeks to prepare for the event, which would be held at a community center over an hour away, in Frederick, Maryland. Somehow, I’d imagined that I’d have at least a year to get ready, both physically and mentally. Now things were becoming both very real and very surreal.

“What do you want your sash to say?” she asked.

When I hesitated, baffled by her question, she clarified. “Where do you live in Washington?”

Which is how I appointed myself Mrs. Georgetown DC, after forking over a deposit of $250 (the entire cost of entry was $750) and promising to schedule a headshot with the official pageant photographer within the week.

The author and her parents, Susan and Elliott Alter, in a photo taken on the author's Sweet 16 and Susan’s 40th birthday. "The theme of the party, held in my mom’s old high school gym, was a 1950s prom," the author writes.
The author and her parents, Susan and Elliott Alter, in a photo taken on the author’s Sweet 16 and Susan’s 40th birthday. “The theme of the party, held in my mom’s old high school gym, was a 1950s prom,” the author writes.

Courtesy of Cathy Alter

I immediately launched into overdrive, making a to-do list like I was planning my wedding. Each action item begot new actions. I made an appointment for highlights, but did I also want to talk about hair extensions? How much were hair halos? (What were hair halos?!) There was no time to sit and reflect on who I was fast becoming.

I called the photographer and asked him what I’d need to bring to the photo shoot. Everything on his list included the word glitzy. Also, he advised, “Wear something that either shows your cleavage or your shoulders but not both. That’s just overkill.”

He suggested I buy a bag of rhinestones and glue them onto my bathing suit, which, for some reason, he kept calling a “one-piece bikini.”

“Are you going to photograph me in a bathing suit?” I asked him.

“No,” he said. “I just wanted to tell you about rhinestones.” His parting advice, worthy of its own bedazzled T-shirt was, “Go glam or go home.”

My friends were divided on my new title. Some had a field day at my expense. “Can your bathing suit be Victorian or come with a turtleneck?” asked one. “Does AARP have a beauty pageant?” asked another, choking back laughter. One emailed me an Amazon link for Preparation H, which has famously been used to tighten bags under the eyes. “Maybe you can use this on your butt, too,” was the subject line.

Others were more perplexed.

“It’s ironic that you’re looking for acceptance and confidence in the very place designed not to give it,” said one of my closest friends, expressing concern.

A few were outraged. When I met a friend and former editor, she pounded on the table. “You can’t do this!” she said, holding her fist up for another strike. “What does this say about the progress we’ve been making as women?”

She brought up how precarious it is to be female in the wake of Roe v. Wade and the gutting of abortion rights and the horrible message about appearance that I would be sending to Leo. She told me she wasn’t sure if she could be my friend if I went through with the pageant.

Still another saw me as a champion just for entering: “You’ve been given a bigger stage, to stand up for all people who feel less than. You’re saying, ‘I’m here, I made it, and so can you.’”

I had been Mrs. Georgetown for two days before the idea of competing began to seem like a genuinely half-baked idea. What the heck was I doing? And what sort of message was I sending to myself? To my husband? To Leo? (“Do you think I could win?” I had asked the poor kid, who immediately looked to Karl for a clue before answering, “It depends on the competition.”)

The author’s mother on the day of her Sweet 16 party. "That dress still hangs in the closet of the family home in Connecticut," the author writes.
The author’s mother on the day of her Sweet 16 party. “That dress still hangs in the closet of the family home in Connecticut,” the author writes.

Courtesy of Cathy Alter

I’ve always had a complicated relationship with beauty. As their ruthless Miss America parties suggest, my parents placed great value on physical appearance. When we were little, my father used to chase my younger brother and me around our swimming pool with a spray bottle of Sun In hair lightener. After growing up poor, eating mayonnaise sandwiches and fending for himself, having golden-haired, sun-kissed children who looked like they belonged in the Kennedy compound was, for him, an emblem of success.

My mother’s guiding principle was that it was more important to look good than to feel good. When I was in high school, she sat me down and gently explained that because I was no natural beauty — “no Christie Brinkley” were her words — I’d always have to wear makeup.

I was on the tender cusp of womanhood, and my mother’s grim appraisal took root in my soul. Before dementia completely robbed her of the ability to speak, the last clear words my mother said to me were, “How about some blush?”

On my third day as Mrs. Georgetown, I decided it was time to try on evening gowns at my favorite consignment shop in D.C. Even though the saleswomen aren’t permitted to mention the origin stories of their merchandise, I’ve gotten in pretty good with some of the staff and have been able to wheedle out some details.

Along these lines, I wound up in the dressing room with what I knew was an evening gown once worn by Ivana Trump by a designer whose name I didn’t recognize. It was $125 and the color of tomato sauce from a can, with a mermaid silhouette, red jewels scattered down the front, and about 40 miles of tulle. When I unzipped it, I saw there was a grimy Calvin Klein strapless bra sewn inside, size 36C, and I had a sudden pang, knowing such a private detail about Ivana. My mother, too, wore a 36C. Placing my own breasts inside the bra — and being this close to its original owner — was surprisingly intimate.

I looked at myself in the dressing room mirror, trying and failing to imagine myself striding across a stage in a conference center in Frederick, Maryland, giving a royal wave, chest out, smile aided by Vaseline on my teeth, hammertoes screaming at the straps of my stilettos.

I heard a voice.

“Take it off,” it said. “It’s not you,” it said.

Whether it was my mother speaking or Ivana, it didn’t matter. The dress wasn’t me. And neither, I realized, was the pageant.

My mother often warned me about falling for a pretty face. “Looks fade,” she had said after a man with movie star looks obliterated my heart. She could have been talking about her own vulnerabilities around appearance and aging. It was the way I knew that, despite her critical eye, even she recognized deep down that there were things more valuable than looks. My mother would have been unsparing in her assessment of my chances in the pageant (none) and in my decision to enter it (dumb).

The author and her mother, taken on the author’s wedding day in 2006.
The author and her mother, taken on the author’s wedding day in 2006.

Courtesy of Cathy Alter

What good is beauty, anyway? It was surely a burden for my mother, who tried mightily to keep up appearances until that weight shifted to my father. He became her de facto makeup artist as she sat strapped in a wheelchair, unable to perform her own ministries, her hands clenched in rage.

After watching him spoon-feed her lunch (“Now, now,” he’d say whenever she tried to bite his fingers), the sight of him dabbing her lips with her trademark Love That Red made me reevaluate my own definition of devotion — of obligation. In the face of the inevitable, my father’s tacit efforts broke my heart.

On my final day as Mrs. Georgetown, I phoned the pageant director and dropped out of the race.

“Did something happen?” She sounded aghast, like maybe I had microderm-ed my face off.

“I don’t have the full support of my family and friends,” was my excuse, which approached the truth, at least partially.

The woman who went on to wear my Mrs. Georgetown sash, I learned later, was from Rockville, Maryland. In her official pageant headshot, she looks a little like a Facetuned Jennifer Coolidge.

The pageant fell on the same weekend as my father’s 90th birthday. Home in Connecticut, I showed my father a photo of my “replacement.”

“Good thing you dropped out,” he said. “You didn’t stand a chance.”

“Grandpa!” Leo looked at my face, concerned.

“Thanks for your vote of confidence,” I said, lightly punching his arm and reassuring myself that limitations are not heritable.

Later that night, Leo slipped me a note before bedtime. It read, in part, “I love you for yourself. I love your sweet, sweet, heart. Though you are beautiful, it’s what is inside that counts.”

It is a note I wish my mother would have written and dropped in the mail, addressed to herself.

Cathy Alter’s articles and essays have appeared in O, the Oprah Magazine, The Cut, Wired, and The Washington Post, among others. She is the author of “Virgin Territory: Stories From the Road to Womanhood,” the memoir “Up for Renewal: What Magazines Taught Me About Love, Sex, and Starting Over,” and “CRUSH: Writers Reflect on Love, Longing, and the Lasting Power of Their First Celebrity Crush.” She lives in Washington, D.C.

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So You Have Wrinkles But Don’t Want Botox. What Are Your Options?

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Aging gracefully means something different for everyone. When it comes specifically to skin care, some turn to Botox while others embrace a mature look. Then there are those who fall somewhere in between.

If you’re not interested in something as invasive ― or expensive ― as Botox but want to do something to improve the appearance of your skin, we (and dermatologists) have good news: There are plenty of ways to minimize fine lines and wrinkles without injectables.

Here’s how injectables work, in case you’re still wondering.

According to Dr. Jeannette Graf, a board-certified dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York, Botox works by relaxing “specific muscles in the face to decrease lines that are caused by repeated movements to create “a lifted, relaxed look.”

In a story previously published by HuffPost, cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Peterson Pierre explained that Botox is produced from the same toxin that causes botulism: “The signal from the nerve to the muscle telling it to flex is blocked by Botox, thereby relaxing the muscle and improving lines and wrinkles.”

There are several other injectables that produce a similar effect, including Dysport, Xeomin, Jeveau and Daxxify. Dr. Dustin Portela, a board-certified dermatologist at Treasure Valley Dermatology in Idaho, explained that these injectables “all use the same active agent as Botox, botulinum toxin type A,” but have different carrier proteins that cause them to work a little differently.

None of these injectables remove wrinkles permanently, but if they are used regularly they can continue to soften lines “by decreasing repeated movements, which can cause them to deepen again,” Graf said.

Are there less-invasive procedures that work just as well as Botox?

If you aren’t opposed to a procedure but don’t want to use neurotoxins (Botox), there are alternatives. But Graf said that “nothing can take the place of a neurotoxin,” so no one should expect the same result as Botox with other treatments.

However, she explained that “rejuvenation procedures such as laser resurfacing, chemical peels and microneedling can be helpful in diminishing the look of lines while improving overall skin aging” without the use of neurotoxins.

Can topical products reduce the appearance of wrinkles?

Those who don’t want to, or can’t, use more invasive procedures can take steps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles at home. Portela advised that “nothing you apply topically will have the same effect as Botox.” Nevertheless, Graf said that “retinol is a good anti-aging ingredient” because it “boosts collagen production and can prevent fine lines and wrinkles after a period of long-term use.”

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It has a gentle-yet-effective formula that won’t cause irritation and helps smooth and brighten skin.","source":"","title":"CeraVe skin renewing retinol serum","type":"image","summary":"","badge":"","cta":[{"text":"Get it from Target for $25.99.","url":"https://goto.target.com/c/2706071/81938/2092?subId1=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Fcerave-skin-anti-aging-renewing-retinol-face-serum-for-fine-lines-wrinkles-and-skin-brightening-fragrance-free-1oz%2F-%2FA-16600972%3Fref%3Dtgt_adv_XS000000%26AFID%3Dgoogle_pla_df%26fndsrc%3Dtgtao%26DFA%3D71700000012735304%26CPNG%3DPLA_Beauty%252BPersonal%2BCare%252BShopping_Local%257CBeauty_Ecomm_Beauty%26adgroup%3DSC_Health%252BBeauty%26LID%3D700000001170770pgs%26LNM%3DPRODUCT_GROUP%26network%3Dg%26device%3Dc%26location%3D1022762%26targetid%3Dpla-895745642360%26ds_rl%3D1246978%26ds_rl%3D1248099%26gclid%3DCjwKCAjwrqqSBhBbEiwAlQeqGvWGjhDoIL056Ybj_SqxW2qPcLtngZp-roUArkUceVixNb6Uzcq49BoCcEYQAvD_BwE%26gclsrc%3Daw.ds","ampPositionInUnit":7,"positionInSubUnit":11}],"meta":null,"credit":"Target","creditUrl":"Target","authorship":{"author":{"id":"000000000000000000000000","bio":{},"urls":{},"urlName":{"text":"","transliterated":""}}},"thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"624c5567210000485450564a.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"Great for most skin types, beginners and those with sensitive skin, CeraVe’s offering includes an encapsulated, time-released retinol along with moisturizing, skin-repairing ingredients like ceramides, niacinamide and hyaluronic acid. It has a gentle-yet-effective formula that won’t cause irritation and helps smooth and brighten skin.","credit":"Target","height":1080,"width":1080,"ops":""},"textWrap":"wrapped","imagePositionInUnit":6,"imagePositionInSubUnit":9,"authors":[],"isLiveblogSlide":false},"provider":null},{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/624c54851e0000026b1b1eb7.png","queryParams":{},"width":1080,"height":1080,"credit":"Dermstore","creditUrl":"https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=29069&awinaffid=837483&campaign=&clickref=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&ued=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dermstore.com%2Fskinmedica-retinol-complex-0.5%2F11289677.html%3Futm_egbu%3DEverything%2BElse%2BSmart%2BShopping%2B-%2BHP%2B%2F%2BPF%26utm_egb%3D%26utm_ega%3D%26utm_egc%3DEverything%2BElse%2BSmart%2BShopping%2B-%2BHP%2B%2F%2BPF%26gclid%3DCjwKCAjwrqqSBhBbEiwAlQeqGlgUiMibVPhiLwN4MuV_IpGrn_cRLCDoR4gzpGJcZL0HpBlGkrPTRhoCz84QAvD_BwE%26gclsrc%3Daw.ds&platform=pl"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"624c5487e4b068157f7ca628","caption":"This option is best for those who know their skin can tolerate high levels of active ingredients. SkinMedica’s night lotion is formulated with multiple different strengths of retinol to help rejuvenate the skin and diminish the appearance of fine lines. Algae extract keeps skin soft, hydrated and protected against free-radical damage.","source":"","title":"SkinMedica age defense retinol complex","type":"image","summary":"","badge":"","cta":[{"text":"Get it from Dermstore for $78.","url":"https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=29069&awinaffid=837483&campaign=&clickref=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&ued=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dermstore.com%2Fskinmedica-retinol-complex-0.5%2F11289677.html%3Futm_egbu%3DEverything%2BElse%2BSmart%2BShopping%2B-%2BHP%2B%2F%2BPF%26utm_egb%3D%26utm_ega%3D%26utm_egc%3DEverything%2BElse%2BSmart%2BShopping%2B-%2BHP%2B%2F%2BPF%26gclid%3DCjwKCAjwrqqSBhBbEiwAlQeqGlgUiMibVPhiLwN4MuV_IpGrn_cRLCDoR4gzpGJcZL0HpBlGkrPTRhoCz84QAvD_BwE%26gclsrc%3Daw.ds&platform=pl","ampPositionInUnit":5,"positionInSubUnit":8}],"meta":null,"credit":"Dermstore","creditUrl":"Dermstore","authorship":{"author":{"id":"000000000000000000000000","bio":{},"urls":{},"urlName":{"text":"","transliterated":""}}},"thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"624c54851e0000026b1b1eb7.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"This option is best for those who know their skin can tolerate high levels of active ingredients. SkinMedica’s night lotion is formulated with multiple different strengths of retinol to help rejuvenate the skin and diminish the appearance of fine lines. Algae extract keeps skin soft, hydrated and protected against free-radical damage.","credit":"Dermstore","height":1080,"width":1080,"ops":""},"textWrap":"wrapped","imagePositionInUnit":4,"imagePositionInSubUnit":6,"authors":[],"isLiveblogSlide":false},"provider":null},{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/624c53762100005ca050563e.png","queryParams":{},"width":1080,"height":1080,"credit":"Alastin Skincare","creditUrl":"https://go.skimresources.com?id=38395X987171&xs=1&xcust=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&url=https%3A%2F%2Falastin.com%2Fproducts%2Frenewal-retinol%3Fvariant%3D29495894801%26currency%3DUSD%26utm_medium%3Dproduct_sync%26utm_source%3Dgoogle%26utm_content%3Dsag_organic%26utm_campaign%3Dsag_organic%26gclid%3DCjwKCAjwrqqSBhBbEiwAlQeqGjXqQFRpJLh8QGV9sweO2bTHyTi3Z7k0aQ4ZwH4SDEFC6kAvjqCnQxoCnTAQAvD_BwE"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"624c5378e4b0e44de9c75965","caption":"Alastin’s retinol cream is available in two strengths, 0.25 and 0.5, so you can start with the lighter strength if necessary. 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It includes oat extract and antioxidants to help calm and soothe the skin while protecting against dehydration with powerful hydrators.","source":"","title":"Alastin renewal retinol","type":"image","summary":"","badge":"","cta":[{"text":"Get it from Alastin Skincare for $64.","url":"https://go.skimresources.com?id=38395X987171&xs=1&xcust=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&url=https%3A%2F%2Falastin.com%2Fproducts%2Frenewal-retinol%3Fvariant%3D29495894801%26currency%3DUSD%26utm_medium%3Dproduct_sync%26utm_source%3Dgoogle%26utm_content%3Dsag_organic%26utm_campaign%3Dsag_organic%26gclid%3DCjwKCAjwrqqSBhBbEiwAlQeqGjXqQFRpJLh8QGV9sweO2bTHyTi3Z7k0aQ4ZwH4SDEFC6kAvjqCnQxoCnTAQAvD_BwE","ampPositionInUnit":3,"positionInSubUnit":5}],"meta":null,"credit":"Alastin Skincare","creditUrl":"Alastin Skincare","authorship":{"author":{"id":"000000000000000000000000","bio":{},"urls":{},"urlName":{"text":"","transliterated":""}}},"thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"624c53762100005ca050563e.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"Alastin’s retinol cream is available in two strengths, 0.25 and 0.5, so you can start with the lighter strength if necessary. 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Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair retinol moisturizer

The Best Retinol Creams, According To A Dermatologist

Portela also recommended using products with vitamin C to help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, hyaluronic acid to help “plump up” the skin, niacinamide to help improve skin texture, and peptides to stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture.

<div class="js-react-hydrator" data-component-name="Slideshow" data-component-id="4910" data-component-props="{"index":17,"contentListType":"slideshow","id":"641485c0e4b00c3e60738583","title":"The Most Effective Vitamin C Serums, According To Dermatologists And Reviewers","enhancements":{"fonts":{"primary":{},"accent":{},"caption":{}}},"dek":"","view":"slideshow","lastPublishedAt":"2023-05-15T19:44:10Z","slides":[{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/641485371f00001a0099a1f2.png","queryParams":{},"width":1080,"height":1080,"credit":"Amazon"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"641485e6e4b0bc5cb6500fff","caption":"Sr. Shopping Writer Lourdes Uribe is absolutely devoted to this powerful vitamin C serum. Her esthetician recommended adding it to her lineup, and now she can’t imagine her skin without it. It’s an oil-based vitamin C-rich serum that not only has the potential to help reduce typical signs of aging like fine lines, wrinkles and sun damage, but can help to reduce scarring as well. While it costs a pretty penny, she thinks it’s absolutely worth it. A little goes a long way, making it less of a financial burden than one might imagine. It’s definitely worth the splurge.

Promising review: \"Love this stuff. It might be a tad expensive, but it has done wonders for my skin to even it out and make it so smooth. Lines seem to have almost vanished (I’m 57). I have sensitive skin and this was not harsh, nor did it break out my skin. VERY happy with this product and would recommend this to anyone with sensitive skin who wants their skin to feel soft and look radiant. I get SO many compliments on my skin. Have been using for 5 months and will continue to do so.” — Kindle customer","source":"","title":"iS Clinical Super Serum Advance","type":"image","summary":"","badge":"","cta":[{"text":"$150 at Amazon","url":"https://www.amazon.com/CLINICAL-Super-Serum-Advance-fl/dp/B009QZEHAO?tag=thehuffingtop-20&ascsubtag=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a%2C-1%2C-1%2Cd%2C0%2C0%2Chp-fil-am%3D0%2C0%3A0%2C0%2C0%2C0","ampPositionInUnit":45,"positionInSubUnit":83,"isAmazonLink":true}],"meta":null,"credit":"Amazon","creditUrl":"","authorship":{"author":{"id":"000000000000000000000000","bio":{},"urls":{},"urlName":{"text":"","transliterated":""}}},"thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"641485371f00001a0099a1f2.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"Sr. Shopping Writer Lourdes Uribe is absolutely&nbsp;devoted to this powerful vitamin C serum. Her esthetician recommended adding it to her lineup, and now she can&rsquo;t imagine her skin without it. It’s an oil-based vitamin C-rich serum that not only has the potential to help reduce typical signs of aging like fine lines, wrinkles and sun damage, but can help to reduce scarring as well. While it costs a pretty penny, she thinks it&rsquo;s absolutely worth it. A little goes a long way, making it less of a financial burden than one might imagine. It&rsquo;s definitely worth the splurge.

Promising review:&nbsp;\"Love this stuff. It might be a tad expensive, but it has done wonders for my skin to even it out and make it so smooth. Lines seem to have almost vanished (I&rsquo;m 57). I have sensitive skin and this was not harsh, nor did it break out my skin. VERY happy with this product and would recommend this to anyone with sensitive skin who wants their skin to feel soft and look radiant. I get SO many compliments on my skin. Have been using for 5 months and will continue to do so.&rdquo; &mdash;&nbsp;Kindle customer","credit":"Amazon","height":1080,"width":1080,"ops":""},"textWrap":"wrapped","imagePositionInUnit":44,"imagePositionInSubUnit":80,"authors":[],"isLiveblogSlide":false},"provider":null},{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/6414854a1f0000310099a1f6.png","queryParams":{},"width":1080,"height":1080,"credit":"Sephora"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"641485ffe4b00c3e6073861c","caption":"This serum has an very high 20% concentration of vitamin C, plus mild fruit AHAs to act as gentle exfoliators and Japanese Angelica root extract that softens, smooths and helps to counterbalance and enhance the effects of vitamin C.

Promising review: \"This is the only serum I’ve ever used during the day that truly makes a difference. I have really sensitive skin but I can use this everyday and I actually see my skin brighter, smoother, less redness and over all improvement. I used the whole bottle before writing a review but honestly 2 weeks in I saw noticeable results. I’m scared to switch to any other vitamin c serum now!\" — iz95","source":"","title":"Tatcha Violet-C Brightening serum","type":"image","summary":"","badge":"","cta":[{"text":"$89 at Sephora","url":"https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=Zb4jl9GtVeY&mid=2417&u1=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fviolet-c-brightening-serum-vitamin-c-aha-P439058","ampPositionInUnit":43,"positionInSubUnit":79}],"meta":null,"credit":"Sephora","creditUrl":"","authorship":{"author":{"id":"000000000000000000000000","bio":{},"urls":{},"urlName":{"text":"","transliterated":""}}},"thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"6414854a1f0000310099a1f6.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"This serum has an very high 20% concentration of vitamin C, plus mild fruit AHAs to act as gentle exfoliators and&nbsp;Japanese Angelica root extract that softens, smooths and helps to counterbalance and enhance the effects of vitamin C.

Promising review: \"This is the only serum I&rsquo;ve ever used during the day that truly makes a difference. I have really sensitive skin but I can use this everyday and I actually see my skin brighter, smoother, less redness and over all improvement. I used the whole bottle before writing a review but honestly 2 weeks in I saw noticeable results. I&rsquo;m scared to switch to any other vitamin c serum now!\" &mdash; iz95","credit":"Sephora","height":1080,"width":1080,"ops":""},"textWrap":"wrapped","imagePositionInUnit":42,"imagePositionInSubUnit":77,"authors":[],"isLiveblogSlide":false},"provider":null},{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/641485222500001e0062f41a.png","queryParams":{},"width":1080,"height":1080,"credit":"Sephora"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"641485cce4b0a3902d3058c2","caption":"There are tons of vitamin C serums on the market, but this pick previously recommended by Dr. Brendan Camp, a board-certified dermatologist in New York, is a powerful, effective option for anyone looking to amp up their routine. It can help tackle sun damage, dark spots, lines, dullness and more.

\"Vitamin C serums neutralize the free oxygen radicals, which are unstable oxygen molecules that can damage cellular structures like DNA, lipids, and proteins. Used on a regular basis, they can also help brighten skin and reduce the appearance of sunspots,\" Camp said.

Promising review: \"Road to clear skin. I agree that this product have a strong scent but it goes away after applying moisturizer. However this is one of the best vitamins c I’ve used. It’s been 1 month, my dark spots are fading quickly. Make sure to use sunscreen. This product works! Won’t stop buying.\" — Jaiivee","source":"","title":"Dr. Dennis Gross 15% Vitamin C Firm & Bright serum","type":"image","summary":"","badge":"","cta":[{"text":"$85 at Sephora","url":"https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=Zb4jl9GtVeY&mid=2417&u1=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fvitamin-c-lactic-15-firm-bright-serum-P501169","ampPositionInUnit":41,"positionInSubUnit":76}],"meta":null,"credit":"Sephora","creditUrl":"","authorship":{"author":{"id":"000000000000000000000000","bio":{},"urls":{},"urlName":{"text":"","transliterated":""}}},"thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"641485222500001e0062f41a.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"There are tons of vitamin C serums on the market, but this pick&nbsp;previously recommended by&nbsp;Dr. Brendan Camp, a board-certified dermatologist&nbsp;in New York, is a powerful, effective option for anyone looking to amp up their routine. It can help tackle sun damage, dark spots, lines, dullness and more.

\"Vitamin C serums neutralize the free oxygen radicals, which are unstable oxygen molecules that can damage cellular structures like DNA, lipids, and proteins. Used on a regular basis, they can also help brighten skin and reduce the appearance of sunspots,\" Camp said.

Promising review: \"Road to clear skin. I agree that this product have a strong scent but it goes away after applying moisturizer. However this is one of the best vitamins c I&rsquo;ve used. It&rsquo;s been 1 month, my dark spots are fading quickly. Make sure to use sunscreen. This product works! Won&rsquo;t stop buying.\" &mdash; Jaiivee","credit":"Sephora","height":1080,"width":1080,"ops":""},"textWrap":"wrapped","imagePositionInUnit":40,"imagePositionInSubUnit":72,"authors":[],"isLiveblogSlide":false},"provider":null},{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/641485482300003900573e3a.png","queryParams":{},"width":1080,"height":1080,"credit":"Dermstore"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"641485fbe4b0fef15243bf76","caption":"If you’re into skin care, you’ve likely heard people sing the praises of this cult-favorite serum, and with good reason. The SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic serum has been hailed by dermatologists for its ability to help lighten fine lines, firm skin, provide environmental protection and brighten a dull complexion. The stabilized formulation means all ingredients are working at the peak of their powers, in tandem with each other.

Promising reviews: \"I have tried many vitamin c serums and keep coming back to this one. It’s been highly effective on my skin, and while it’s pricey the results have been well worth it. One thing I have especially noticed is that it helps fade my acne scars pretty quickly.\" — GG

\"When I first bought this, I was so apprehensive because of the price. But it really is amazing! You have to use it consistently for a few weeks to see the results, but it’s worth it. My skin has never looked better. A little goes a long way, so the price is worth it.\" — Emma","source":"","title":"SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic acid serum","type":"image","summary":"","badge":"","cta":[{"text":"$182 at Dermstore","url":"https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=29069&awinaffid=837483&campaign=&clickref=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&ued=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dermstore.com%2Fskinceuticals-c-e-ferulic-with-15-l-ascorbic-acid-vitamin-c-serum-30ml%2F11289609.html&platform=pl","ampPositionInUnit":39,"positionInSubUnit":71}],"meta":null,"credit":"Dermstore","creditUrl":"","authorship":{"author":{"id":"000000000000000000000000","bio":{},"urls":{},"urlName":{"text":"","transliterated":""}}},"thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"641485482300003900573e3a.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"If you’re into skin care, you’ve likely heard people sing the praises of this cult-favorite serum, and with good reason. The SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic serum has been&nbsp;hailed by dermatologists&nbsp;for its ability to help lighten fine lines, firm skin, provide environmental protection and brighten a dull complexion. The stabilized formulation means all ingredients are working at the peak of their powers, in tandem with each other.

Promising reviews:&nbsp;\"I have tried many vitamin c serums and keep coming back to this one. It&rsquo;s been highly effective on my skin, and while it&rsquo;s pricey the results have been well worth it. One thing I have especially noticed is that it helps fade my acne scars pretty quickly.\" &mdash;&nbsp;GG

\"When I first bought this, I was so apprehensive because of the price. But it really is amazing! You have to use it consistently for a few weeks to see the results, but it&rsquo;s worth it. My skin has never looked better. A little goes a long way, so the price is worth it.\" &mdash;&nbsp;Emma","credit":"Dermstore","height":1080,"width":1080,"ops":""},"textWrap":"wrapped","imagePositionInUnit":38,"imagePositionInSubUnit":67,"authors":[],"isLiveblogSlide":false},"provider":null},{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/641485442300001900573e38.png","queryParams":{},"width":1080,"height":1080,"credit":"Amazon"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"641485f8e4b0bc5cb6501029","caption":"This award-winning serum from Revision Skincare is an excellent way to get smooth, glowy and even skin. It helps to support the skin’s natural production of vitamins C and E and can help to correct the effects of sun damage and free radicals.

Promising review: \"I found my miracle. It really works for me! For years like I mean forever I have been searching for the right product. I have very sensitive skin and I suffer from hyperpigmentation. I even went to a dermatologist and nothing worked. I saw this on Instagram and I thought to give it a try. It was very expensive but I was desperate. And now I don’t regret it. I bought the facial wash and I apply this treatment every night. The amazing thing is that, I saw the difference within a week. Now I am slowly buying other products and would create a routinely regimen for my face.\" — Verified user","source":"","title":"Revision Skincare C+ Correcting Complex 30%","type":"image","summary":"","badge":"","cta":[{"text":"$170 at Amazon","url":"https://www.amazon.com/Revision-Skincare-Correcting-Complex-30/dp/B07TJ8W931?tag=thehuffingtop-20&ascsubtag=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a%2C-1%2C-1%2Cd%2C0%2C0%2Chp-fil-am%3D0%2C0%3A0%2C0%2C0%2C0","ampPositionInUnit":37,"positionInSubUnit":66,"isAmazonLink":true}],"meta":null,"credit":"Amazon","creditUrl":"","authorship":{"author":{"id":"000000000000000000000000","bio":{},"urls":{},"urlName":{"text":"","transliterated":""}}},"thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"641485442300001900573e38.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"This award-winning serum from Revision Skincare is an excellent way to get smooth, glowy and even skin. It helps to support the skin’s natural production of vitamins C and E and can help to correct the effects of sun damage and free radicals.

Promising review: \"I found my miracle.&nbsp;It really works for me! For years like I mean forever I have been searching for the right product. I have very sensitive skin and I suffer from hyperpigmentation. I even went to a dermatologist and nothing worked. I saw this on Instagram and I thought to give it a try. It was very expensive but I was desperate. And now I don&rsquo;t regret it. I bought the facial wash and I apply this treatment every night. The amazing thing is that, I saw the difference within a week. Now I am slowly buying other products and would create a routinely regimen for my face.\" &mdash;&nbsp; Verified user","credit":"Amazon","height":1080,"width":1080,"ops":""},"textWrap":"wrapped","imagePositionInUnit":36,"imagePositionInSubUnit":64,"authors":[],"isLiveblogSlide":false},"provider":null},{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/64148541250000190062f420.png","queryParams":{},"width":1080,"height":1080,"credit":"Sephora"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"641485f5e4b0cfde25c49072","caption":"This powerful serum from Paula’s Choice is formulated with 15% vitamin C, vitamin E, ferulic acid, hyaluronic acid and peptides that can help to fade away sun damage and hyperpigmentation as well as post-acne scarring while moisturizing and smoothing the skin.

Promising reviews: \"Products gives a good glow, notice a difference when I forget to apply in the morning. I have very sensitive skin and this product does not irritate my skin at all. Apply a SPF after, always.\" — tdkh

\"Great addition to skincare routine. This is my first time using vitamin C and it’s been almost three weeks since I started. I have dry skin and adding this to my everyday routine has been a game changer. My skin looks brighter and looks/ feels smoother.\" — gigiatsephora
","source":"","title":"Paula’s Choice C15 Vitamin C Super Booster","type":"image","summary":"","badge":"","cta":[{"text":"$55 at Sephora","url":"https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=Zb4jl9GtVeY&mid=2417&u1=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fpaula-s-choice-c15-vitamin-c-super-booster-P469506","ampPositionInUnit":35,"positionInSubUnit":63}],"meta":null,"credit":"Sephora","creditUrl":"","authorship":{"author":{"id":"000000000000000000000000","bio":{},"urls":{},"urlName":{"text":"","transliterated":""}}},"thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"64148541250000190062f420.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"This powerful serum from Paula’s Choice is formulated with 15% vitamin C, vitamin E, ferulic acid, hyaluronic acid and peptides that can help to fade away sun damage and hyperpigmentation as well as post-acne scarring while moisturizing and smoothing the skin.

Promising reviews: \"Products gives a good glow, notice a difference when I forget to apply in the morning. I have very sensitive skin and this product does not irritate my skin at all. Apply a SPF after, always.\" &mdash; tdkh

\"Great addition to skincare routine. This is my first time using vitamin C and it&rsquo;s been almost three weeks since I started. I have dry skin and adding this to my everyday routine has been a game changer. My skin looks brighter and looks/ feels smoother.\" &mdash; gigiatsephora
","credit":"Sephora","height":1080,"width":1080,"ops":""},"textWrap":"wrapped","imagePositionInUnit":34,"imagePositionInSubUnit":59,"authors":[],"isLiveblogSlide":false},"provider":null},{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/6414853f1f00001c0099a1f4.png","queryParams":{},"width":1080,"height":1080,"credit":"Maelove"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"641485f0e4b0bc5cb6501017","caption":"Considered by many skin care enthusiasts to be an affordable alternative to SkinCeuticals’ cult-fave serum above, this option from Maelove is full of vitamins C and E, ferulic acid and hyaluronic acid. It provides long-lasting hydration as well as all the benefits that come along with a powerful vitamin C serum.

Promising reviews: \"So many c serums out there, but Maelove is wonderful. I stopped using SkinCeuticals. Maelove is less expensive and the serum does give me a clean tight glow.\" — Kay B.

\"My derm recommended this product and even he was impressed! Works just as well if not better than that very expensive brand we all know. I’m thrilled that I found maelove!!\" — Erica M.

\"Glowing skin. I love the texture! I noticed my skin looked a lot more alive, less dull and brightened within a couple of days. I use this consistently every morning after I wash my face.\" — Danielle K.","source":"","title":"Maelove Glow Maker antioxidant serum","type":"image","summary":"","badge":"","cta":[{"text":"$29.95 at Maelove","url":"https://go.skimresources.com?id=38395X987171&xs=1&xcust=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&url=https%3A%2F%2Fmaelove.com%2Fproducts%2Fthe-glow-maker","ampPositionInUnit":33,"positionInSubUnit":58}],"meta":null,"credit":"Maelove","creditUrl":"","authorship":{"author":{"id":"000000000000000000000000","bio":{},"urls":{},"urlName":{"text":"","transliterated":""}}},"thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"6414853f1f00001c0099a1f4.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"Considered by many skin care enthusiasts to be an affordable alternative to SkinCeuticals’ cult-fave serum above, this option from Maelove is full of vitamins C and E, ferulic acid and hyaluronic acid. It provides long-lasting hydration as well as all the benefits that come along with a powerful vitamin C serum.

Promising reviews: \"So many c serums out there, but Maelove is wonderful. I stopped using SkinCeuticals. Maelove is less expensive and the serum does give me a clean tight glow.\" &mdash; Kay B.

\"My derm recommended this product and even he was impressed! Works just as well if not better than that very expensive brand we all know. I’m thrilled that I found maelove!!\" &mdash; Erica M.

\"Glowing skin.&nbsp;I love the texture! I noticed my skin looked a lot more alive, less dull and brightened within a couple of days. I use this consistently every morning after I wash my face.\" &mdash; Danielle K.","credit":"Maelove","height":1080,"width":1080,"ops":""},"textWrap":"wrapped","imagePositionInUnit":32,"imagePositionInSubUnit":51,"authors":[],"isLiveblogSlide":false},"provider":null},{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/6414853c2300003700573e36.png","queryParams":{},"width":1080,"height":1080,"credit":"Sephora"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"641485e9e4b01ea5cd8dcd81","caption":"Don’t sleep on the power of eye serums! Camp is also fan of this particular antioxidant-rich option from Kiehl’s, which is as hydrating as it is effective at improving the look of lines and discoloration.

\"Eye creams and serums maintain and help prevent the delicate skin around the eyes from showing your true age,\" Camp told us previously. \"Products with vitamin C or retinol are effective for encouraging collagen production and minimizing the appearance of wrinkles.\"

Promising reviews: \"Perfect Hydrating and Moisturizing Serum. This is the perfect serum for me because prepares my skin to put on my eye cream. It is so hydrating and moisturizing. Love it and I wish I had found it before. I don’t have dark circles, so I don’t know about this matter.\" — Zabrina","source":"","title":"Kiehl’s vitamin C eye serum","type":"image","summary":"","badge":"","cta":[{"text":"$55 at Sephora","url":"https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=Zb4jl9GtVeY&mid=1237&u1=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nordstrom.com%2Fs%2Fkiehls-since-1851-powerful-strength-dark-circle-reducing-vitamin-c-eye-serum%2F5582306","ampPositionInUnit":31,"positionInSubUnit":50}],"meta":null,"credit":"Sephora","creditUrl":"","authorship":{"author":{"id":"000000000000000000000000","bio":{},"urls":{},"urlName":{"text":"","transliterated":""}}},"thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"6414853c2300003700573e36.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"Don’t sleep on the power of eye serums! Camp is also fan of this particular antioxidant-rich option from Kiehl’s, which is as hydrating as it is effective at improving the look of lines and discoloration.

\"Eye creams and serums maintain and help prevent the delicate skin around the eyes from showing your true age,\" Camp told us previously. \"Products with vitamin C or retinol are effective for encouraging collagen production and minimizing the appearance of wrinkles.\"

Promising reviews: \"Perfect Hydrating and Moisturizing Serum. This is the perfect serum for me because prepares my skin to put on my eye cream. It is so hydrating and moisturizing. Love it and I wish I had found it before. I don’t have dark circles, so I don’t know about this matter.\" &mdash; Zabrina","credit":"Sephora","height":1080,"width":1080,"ops":""},"textWrap":"wrapped","imagePositionInUnit":30,"imagePositionInSubUnit":48,"authors":[],"isLiveblogSlide":false},"provider":null},{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/641485341f00005b0099a1f0.png","queryParams":{},"width":1080,"height":1080,"credit":"The Inkey List"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"641485e2e4b0bc5cb6500fee","caption":"Ideal for sensitive skin or those who are only just beginning to dabble in active ingredients, this serum from The Inkey List is as powerful and effective as it is gentle. Vitamin C and plant-derived epidermal growth factors can help smooth, brighten and tighten the appearance of skin.

Promising review: \"Wonderful for Brightening. I have very sensitive skin, and have tried countless vitamin c serums. This is the only one that doesn’t burn when I apply, and leave my skin covered in red bumps. My skin looks brighter since I’ve started using this, and more plump. I feel like I can get away with wearing way less makeup on a daily basis since starting this.\" — miaaaa96","source":"","title":"The Inkey List 15% vitamin C and EGF serum","type":"image","summary":"","badge":"","cta":[{"text":"$15.99 at Sephora","url":"https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=Zb4jl9GtVeY&mid=2417&u1=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fthe-inkey-list-15-vitamin-c-egf-brightening-serum-P455368","ampPositionInUnit":29,"positionInSubUnit":47}],"meta":null,"credit":"The Inkey List","creditUrl":"","authorship":{"author":{"id":"000000000000000000000000","bio":{},"urls":{},"urlName":{"text":"","transliterated":""}}},"thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"641485341f00005b0099a1f0.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"Ideal for sensitive skin or those who are only just beginning to dabble in active ingredients, this serum from The Inkey List is as powerful and effective as it is gentle. Vitamin C and plant-derived epidermal growth factors can help smooth, brighten and tighten the appearance of skin.

Promising review: \"Wonderful for Brightening. I have very sensitive skin, and have tried countless vitamin c serums. This is the only one that doesn&rsquo;t burn when I apply, and leave my skin covered in red bumps. My skin looks brighter since I&rsquo;ve started using this, and more plump. I feel like I can get away with wearing way less makeup on a daily basis since starting this.\" &mdash; miaaaa96","credit":"The Inkey List","height":1080,"width":1080,"ops":""},"textWrap":"wrapped","imagePositionInUnit":28,"imagePositionInSubUnit":45,"authors":[],"isLiveblogSlide":false},"provider":null},{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/6414859a2300001b00573e3c.png","queryParams":{},"width":1080,"height":1080,"credit":"U Beauty"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"64148602e4b0cfde25c49088","caption":"If you’re more interested in a powerful blend as opposed to a serum that is primarily focused on vitamin C, try this compound from U Beauty. It fights free radicals, sun damage, dullness and more with both retinol and vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, mandelic acid and much more to leave skin soft, smooth and vibrant. It’s definitely a significant splurge, but reviewers say it’s worth it.

Promising review: \"I’ve been using so many products on my skin for years to help with redness, pores, texture, fine lines… You name it and nothing has ever come close to this resurfacing compound!!!! It has everything you need in one bottle. The price is definitely worth it without having to get Botox or pricey fillers!!\" — Angel B.","source":"","title":"U Beauty Resurfacing Compound","type":"image","summary":"","badge":"","cta":[{"text":"$228 at U Beauty","url":"https://prf.hn/click/camref:1011lwXM5/pubref:-6413808ae4b0cfde25c3dada/destination:https://ubeauty.com/products/resurfacing-compound","ampPositionInUnit":27,"positionInSubUnit":44}],"meta":null,"credit":"U Beauty","creditUrl":"","authorship":{"author":{"id":"000000000000000000000000","bio":{},"urls":{},"urlName":{"text":"","transliterated":""}}},"thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"6414859a2300001b00573e3c.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"If you’re more interested in a powerful blend as opposed to a serum that is primarily focused on vitamin C, try this compound from U Beauty. It fights free radicals, sun damage, dullness and more with both retinol and vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, mandelic acid and much more to leave skin soft, smooth and vibrant. It’s definitely a significant splurge, but reviewers say it’s worth it.

Promising review: \"I’ve been using so many products on my skin for years to help with redness, pores, texture, fine lines… You name it and nothing has ever come close to this resurfacing compound!!!! It has everything you need in one bottle. The price is definitely worth it without having to get Botox or pricey fillers!!\" &mdash; Angel B.","credit":"U Beauty","height":1080,"width":1080,"ops":""},"textWrap":"wrapped","imagePositionInUnit":26,"imagePositionInSubUnit":42,"authors":[],"isLiveblogSlide":false},"provider":null},{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/6414852c1f00001b0099a1ee.png","queryParams":{},"width":1080,"height":1080,"credit":"Glow Recipe"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"641485dae4b01ea5cd8dcd55","caption":"Looking for a silky, gel-like serum that won’t feel heavy or sticky but is still full of all the aforementioned doctor-recommended ingredients? You might want to give this Glow Recipe serum a shot. It’s formulated with five kinds of vitamin C, guava, tranexamic acid and ferulic acid that can leave skin more glowy and even.

Promising review: \"I wear this everyday, my face looks brighter, healthier and I can tell its made a big difference on my skin. I have acne prone skin and lots of sun damage. Which helped both. Only thing that needs to improve is the bottle of the serum. By the time I’m done with it I have to take out the pump and hit the bottle on my hand lol. same goes with the eye guava eye serum bottle.\" — Jaqueline G.","source":"","title":"Glow Recipe Guava vitamin C dark spot serum","type":"image","summary":"","badge":"","cta":[{"text":"$45 at Glow Recipe","url":"https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=999&u=2986930&m=75102&afftrack=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&urllink=www.glowrecipe.com%2Fproducts%2Fguava-vitamin-c-dark-spot-serum","ampPositionInUnit":25,"positionInSubUnit":41}],"meta":null,"credit":"Glow Recipe","creditUrl":"","authorship":{"author":{"id":"000000000000000000000000","bio":{},"urls":{},"urlName":{"text":"","transliterated":""}}},"thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"6414852c1f00001b0099a1ee.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"Looking for a silky, gel-like serum that won’t feel heavy or sticky but is still full of all the aforementioned doctor-recommended ingredients? You might want to give this Glow Recipe serum a shot. It’s formulated with five kinds of vitamin C, guava,&nbsp;tranexamic acid&nbsp;and ferulic acid that can leave skin more glowy and even.

Promising review: \"I wear this everyday, my face looks brighter, healthier and I can tell its made a big difference on my skin. I have acne prone skin and lots of sun damage. Which helped both. Only thing that needs to improve is the bottle of the serum. By the time I’m done with it I have to take out the pump and hit the bottle on my hand lol. same goes with the eye guava eye serum bottle.\" &mdash; Jaqueline G.","credit":"Glow Recipe","height":1080,"width":1080,"ops":""},"textWrap":"wrapped","imagePositionInUnit":24,"imagePositionInSubUnit":38,"authors":[],"isLiveblogSlide":false},"provider":null},{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/6414852f2500001e0062f41e.png","queryParams":{},"width":1080,"height":1080,"credit":"Ilia"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"641485dee4b01ea5cd8dcd5f","caption":"I had to throw this pick into the mix myself, because it’s perfect for those just starting to dip their toes into skin care. It’s a multitasking serum that is full of delicious active ingredients recommended by dermatologists, like vitamin C and niacinamide, while also functioning as both an SPF and a foundation, adding a touch of color to the skin.

Promising review: \"One of my favorite Ilia Products. I love subbing this out for the Super Serum Skin Tint a couple of times a week, especially during the summer or on days when I just want very light coverage. It gives your skin a glowy radiance and an extra dose of vitamin C. A little goes a long way. I find that when I wear Beyond C, I end up wearing less make-up because it provides such a natural, healthy and fresh look. I just combine it with brow gel and lip oil. It also saves me from needing a vitamin C serum those days!\" — Summer","source":"","title":"Ilia C Beyond Triple serum SPF 40","type":"image","summary":"","badge":"","cta":[{"text":"$64 at Ilia","url":"https://iliabeauty.nhuie7.net/c/2706071/679082/10539?subId1=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&u=https%3A%2F%2Filiabeauty.com%2Fproducts%2Ftone-3","ampPositionInUnit":23,"positionInSubUnit":37}],"meta":null,"credit":"Ilia","creditUrl":"","authorship":{"author":{"id":"000000000000000000000000","bio":{},"urls":{},"urlName":{"text":"","transliterated":""}}},"thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"6414852f2500001e0062f41e.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"I had to throw this pick into the mix myself, because it’s perfect for those just starting to dip their toes into skin care. It’s a multitasking serum that is full of delicious active ingredients recommended by dermatologists, like vitamin C and niacinamide, while also functioning as both an SPF and a foundation, adding a touch of color to the skin.

Promising review: \"One of my favorite Ilia Products. I love subbing this out for the Super Serum Skin Tint a couple of times a week, especially during the summer or on days when I just want very light coverage. It gives your skin a glowy radiance and an extra dose of vitamin C. A little goes a long way. I find that when I wear Beyond C, I end up wearing less make-up because it provides such a natural, healthy and fresh look. I just combine it with brow gel and lip oil. It also saves me from needing a vitamin C serum those days!\" &mdash; Summer","credit":"Ilia","height":1080,"width":1080,"ops":""},"textWrap":"wrapped","imagePositionInUnit":22,"imagePositionInSubUnit":35,"authors":[],"isLiveblogSlide":false},"provider":null},{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/6414852523000039004479e5.png","queryParams":{},"width":1080,"height":1080,"credit":"Sephora"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"641485d0e4b01ea5cd8dcd3a","caption":"You really can’t go wrong with Drunk Elephant. The brand uses high-quality ingredients that users love, regardless of which product it might be. This serum includes vitamin C, ferulic acid, and vitamin E, all of which balance each other out and can improve uneven skin tone, fine lines and wrinkles and brighten the skin while fighting free-radicals.

Promising review: \"My absolute favorite. I love this serum so much! My skin feels so much nicer after I use it! If you’re looking for a product that makes your skin feel smooth, firmer, and add a glow then this is amazing! (Great for anyone).\" — smstew","source":"","title":"Drunk Elephant C-Firma Fresh day serum","type":"image","summary":"","badge":"","cta":[{"text":"$78 at Sephora","url":"https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=Zb4jl9GtVeY&mid=2417&u1=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fc-firma-day-serum-P400259","ampPositionInUnit":21,"positionInSubUnit":34}],"meta":null,"credit":"Sephora","creditUrl":"","authorship":{"author":{"id":"000000000000000000000000","bio":{},"urls":{},"urlName":{"text":"","transliterated":""}}},"thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"6414852523000039004479e5.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"You really can’t go wrong with Drunk Elephant. The brand uses high-quality ingredients that users love, regardless of which product it might be. This serum includes vitamin C, ferulic acid, and vitamin E, all of which balance each other out and can improve uneven skin tone, fine lines and wrinkles and brighten the skin while fighting free-radicals.

Promising review: \"My absolute favorite. I love this serum so much! My skin feels so much nicer after I use it! If you&rsquo;re looking for a product that makes your skin feel smooth, firmer, and add a glow then this is amazing! (Great for anyone).\" &mdash; smstew","credit":"Sephora","height":1080,"width":1080,"ops":""},"textWrap":"wrapped","imagePositionInUnit":20,"imagePositionInSubUnit":32,"authors":[],"isLiveblogSlide":false},"provider":null},{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/641485182500003e0062f418.png","queryParams":{},"width":1080,"height":1080,"credit":"Dermstore"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"641485c5e4b01ea5cd8dcd1a","caption":"I’m a huge Sunday Riley lover and it’s not surprising to me that this serum is a fan favorite. This powerful and high-quality vitamin C serum was specifically formulated to target dark spots, signs of aging and more, leaving skin smooth and soft. Glycolic acid, a BHA, provides chemical exfoliation while stabilizing the vitamin C, refining and supporting the skin’s luminosity.

Promising review: \"I purchased the smaller size to try this out, and decided to purchase the regular size. My skin responds really well to this product. It doesn’t sting and makes my skin appear refreshed and hydrated. More like a lightweight lotion than a serum, in my opinion, but I really like that about it.\" — Meena","source":"","title":"Sunday Riley C.E.O. 15% Vitamin C Brightening Serum","type":"image","summary":"","badge":"","cta":[{"text":"$85 at Dermstore","url":"https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=29069&awinaffid=837483&campaign=&clickref=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&ued=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dermstore.com%2Fsunday-riley-c.e.o.-15-vitamin-c-brightening-serum-30ml%2F11588282.html&platform=pl","ampPositionInUnit":19,"positionInSubUnit":31}],"meta":null,"credit":"Dermstore","creditUrl":"","authorship":{"author":{"id":"000000000000000000000000","bio":{},"urls":{},"urlName":{"text":"","transliterated":""}}},"thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"641485182500003e0062f418.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"I’m a huge Sunday Riley lover and it’s not surprising to me that this serum is a fan favorite. This powerful and high-quality vitamin C serum was specifically formulated to target dark spots, signs of aging and more, leaving skin smooth and soft. Glycolic acid, a BHA, provides chemical exfoliation while stabilizing the vitamin C, refining and supporting the skin’s luminosity.

Promising review: \"I purchased the smaller size to try this out, and decided to purchase the regular size. &nbsp;My skin responds really well to this product. It doesn’t sting and makes my skin appear refreshed and hydrated. &nbsp;More like a lightweight lotion than a serum, in my opinion, but I really like that about it.\" &mdash; Meena","credit":"Dermstore","height":1080,"width":1080,"ops":""},"textWrap":"wrapped","imagePositionInUnit":18,"imagePositionInSubUnit":28,"authors":[],"isLiveblogSlide":false},"provider":null},{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/64148529250000190062f41c.png","queryParams":{},"width":1080,"height":1080,"credit":"Sephora"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"641485d5e4b0bc5cb6500fcb","caption":"Perfect for people with sensitive skin or for someone who wants to start with a lower dosage, this 10% vitamin C serum includes vitamin E to soften the skin and squalane to deeply hydrate and soften.

Promising reviews: \"I’ve been using this product for a month now, and OMG hello bright skin! My skin has never looked so bright & glowy! This is a MUST HAVE in your collection! My sensitive skin needs gentle products, and FAB is my joy grail skin, body & haircare brand!\" — makeupandmomlif

\"Love this serum. It’s so light and soaks in right away. Lays great under moisturizer and makeup! Skin instantly looks brighter!\" — Bri092918","source":"","title":"First Aid Beauty 10% vitamin C brightening serum","type":"image","summary":"","badge":"","cta":[{"text":"$50 at Sephora","url":"https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=Zb4jl9GtVeY&mid=2417&u1=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2F10-vitamin-c-brightening-serum-P500756","ampPositionInUnit":17,"positionInSubUnit":27}],"meta":null,"credit":"Sephora","creditUrl":"","authorship":{"author":{"id":"000000000000000000000000","bio":{},"urls":{},"urlName":{"text":"","transliterated":""}}},"thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"64148529250000190062f41c.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"Perfect for people with sensitive skin or for someone who wants to start with a lower dosage, this 10% vitamin C serum includes vitamin E to soften the skin and squalane to deeply hydrate and soften.

Promising reviews: \"I’ve been using this product for a month now, and OMG hello bright skin! My skin has never looked so bright &amp; glowy! This is a MUST HAVE in your collection! My sensitive skin needs gentle products, and FAB is my joy grail skin, body &amp; haircare brand!\" &mdash; makeupandmomlif

\"Love this serum. It&rsquo;s so light and soaks in right away. Lays great under moisturizer and makeup! Skin instantly looks brighter!\" &mdash; 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iS Clinical Super Serum Advance

The Most Effective Vitamin C Serums, According To Dermatologists And Reviewers