Vitamin C serums are a dime a dozen these days, but finding one that’s effective and affordable can be hard. Thanks to elf, now we have a great option under $20 at the drugstore!
Say hello to the new elf Bright Icon Vitamin C serum! This new brightening serum is formulated with a triple threat of 15% vitamin C, 1% vitamin E and 0.5% ferulic acid — the powerhouse trio that made SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic serum an icon in the skincare world!
Of course, it’s not the exact same formulation at the exact same acidic pH (which is important for efficiency) as the SkinCeuticals serum but the key ingredients are same.
Great for all skin types, the new elf Bright Icon Vitamin C serum helps visibly brighten, even out skin tone, soothe skin, reduce the look of dark spots and give skin a firm look.
Ingredients:
Water (Aqua), Dipropylene Glycol, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Glycerin, Ascorbic Acid, Laureth-23, Ethoxydiglycol, Tocopherol, Panthenol, Ferulic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Hydroxide, Bisabolol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol, Xanthan Gum, Hippophae Rhamnoides Oil
Key Ingredients
- 15% Vitamin C: A fan favorite ingredient for a reason! This powerhouse antioxidant helps even skin tone, visibly brightens dullness, and boosts overall radiance. It’s one of the most coveted ingredients in skincare—and with good reason: it works! This serum uses a combination of Ascorbic Acid (pure vitamin C) and 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid (vitamin C derivative)
- 1% Vitamin E: Vitamin C’s perfect partner-in-glow. This antioxidant helps defend against environmental stressors while nourishing your skin.
- 0.5% Ferulic Acid: A behind-the-scenes skin booster that packs a punch. This antioxidant not only helps defend against free radicals, but also helps to enhance both Vitamin C and Vitamin E benefits.
- Bisabolol: A calming, plant-derived ingredient that helps soothe skin—ideal for anyone needing a little extra TLC!
elf Bright Icon Vitamin C Serum Review
Texture-wise, this serum has a lightweight formula that absorbs quickly. It doesn’t feel greasy, sticky or tacky and gives my skin a subtle glow. There is no weird smell or fragrance, which is always a plus for me. I use this serum in the morning on clean, dry skin (face and neck, of course) Then I follow it up with a moisturizer w/sunscreen and makeup. It layers perfectly under my SPF and makeup, without any pilling issues.
If you’re new to Vitamin C or have sensitive skin, start with using this serum a few times a week, then work your way up to everyday use depending on how your skin reacts. That’s because this is a high-strength vitamin C formula and your skin might need to build up tolerance. I have been using vitamin C serums for a few years now, so I have had no issues incorporating this serum in my everyday morning routine.
As with any vitamin C serum, it’s best to use this product in the morning (vitamin C also boosts your sunscreen’s effectiveness!) And don’t layer it with retinoids or benzoyl peroxide—they don’t play nice together.
I also avoid using a vitamin C serum with AHAs or BHAs together in the same routine. I just use any exfoliating serum or treatment at night after cleansing and then apply a rich moisturizer/cream and face oil to finish my routine. And yeah, make sure to store the vitamin c serum bottle in a cool, dark place to help keep it fresh and potent.
Bottom Line
Powered by a skin-loving cocktail of Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Ferulic Acid and soothing Bisabolol, elf Bright Icon Vitamin C serum works well to brighten skin, improve uneven skin tone and smooth the look of your skin for a healthier, radiant complexion. Lightweight and fast-absorbing with a non-greasy finish, it layers beautifully under your moisturizer or SPF and makeup. Not to mention, the formula is non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores), vegan and cruelty-free.
At only $16, it’s a great affordable alternative to the expensive high-end options. Who said you can’t get glowing skin on a budget?!!
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