11 Best Vitamin C Serums In Malaysia 2022 (For Brightening & Anti-Aging)

Make up can cover blemishes but the best vitamin C serums in Malaysia 2022 can resolve what you’re trying to cover up in the first place!

Like blemishes, hyper pigmentation, acne scars, the start of wrinkles, dull skin, etc. But since vitamin C serums are not inherently shelf-stable and can range from RM35-100 for a small 30ml bottle:

Be sure to check out the recommendations below for the best vitamin c serums you can get from the drugstore too!

Table Of Contents:

• How To Choose The Best Vitamin C Serum
• 11 Best Vitamin C Serum In Malaysia
• What’s A Vitamin C Serum?
• What Are The Benefits Of Using Vitamin C Serum?
• How To Test Your Skin Sensitivity To A New Vitamin C Serum
• When & How To Use A Vitamin C Serum

How To Choose The Best Vitamin C Serum

1. Vitamin C Form

Vitamin C can come in a host of forms, all with different names:

• L-ascorbic acid
• ascorbyl palmitate
• magnesium ascorbyl phosphate
• tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate
• sodium ascorbyl phosphate

But the one you want (i.e. most effective), is L-ascorbic acid.

It should be among the top 5 ingredients in the list! And as you might already know, ingredients are usually sorted in order from most to least!

2. Concentration

The minimum concentration for a good vitamin C serum is 8%. Anything between 10 and 20% is better still (*2)!

Note: Higher concentration than 20% does not result in further benefits.

However, sensitive skin types can opt for 5% concentration. A lower concentration is gentler on the lips too as the skin on your lips is much thinner than the rest of your face!

PS: There are lip balms that contain vitamin C too.

3. Ingredients

Vitamin E (tocopherol) should also be in the ingredient list too! Along with glutathione and ferulic acid – Each of these have their own unique benefits for optimum vitamin C absorption and function!

4. Packaging

Vitamin C is sensitive to the environment (e.g. heat, light and air).

Hence, the best way to package it is in a dark glass bottle topped with a dropper cap. Rather than a pump! Unless the pump features an airless design!

Tubes are fine too. As long as the packaging is airtight!

5. Other Criteria To Look Out For:

• Water-free formula – water makes ascorbic acid unstable (i.e. degrades faster)
• Expiry date (expired vitamin C is dark orange or brown)
• Low pH level around 2.5 to 3.5

11 Best Vitamin C Serum In Malaysia 2022

• Best Overall – Timeless 20% Vitamin C + E + Ferulic Acid Serum
• Most Effective (20% L-ascorbic acid) – By Wishtrend Pure Vitamin C 21.5% Advanced Serum
• Best For Dry Skin – Paula’s Choice Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum
• Best For Oily Skin – Timeless 20% Vitamin C + E + Ferulic Acid Serum
• Best For Lightening Hyperpigmentation – Some By Mi Galactomyces Pure Vitamin C Glow Serum
• Best Natural (For Sensitive Skin) – Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum
• Best Budget Vitamin C Serum – Melano CC Vitamin C Brightening Essence
• Best Drugstore Option – Garnier Light Complete Vitamin C Booster Serum
• Most Stable – Melano CC Vitamin C Brightening Essence
• Most Comfortable – Ruruberry 5% Ethyl Ascorbic Acid

1. Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum

Best Natural (For Sensitive Skin)

Many Americans swear by their Mad Hippie products. Free from harmful chemicals, the Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum is gentle on sensitive skin with soothing ingredients like chamomile and aloe vera!

Those with sensitive skin have not experienced any irritation or redness with the Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum, even with long-term use.

There are many repeated purchases from those who love the smell and consistency of this vitamin C serum.

Most reveal that  they are impressed with the results – Skin looks brighter with reduced discoloration, skin feels smoother, and there might be a reduction in the occurrence of breakouts too.

Since it is suitable for almost all skin types, the Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum serum is worth a shot for those who want to reduce brown pigmentation on their face!

Those who struggle with wrinkles, fine lines, lusterless skin, and uneven skin texture may also see some benefits but the effects aren’t quick or immediate. Allow up to a month to see any positive effects!

Pros:

• Paraben-free, sulfate-free, alcohol-free, silicone-free, fragrance-free
• Contains vitamin E and ferulic acid
• May reduce signs of aging and dark spots
• Suitable for all skin types (including sensitive skin)
• Light texture and quickly absorbed

Cons:

• Expensive
• L-ascorbic acid is not the main ingredient

2. Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop

A product of South Korea, the beloved Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop may brand itself as hypoallergenic and suitable for sensitive skin as it has 5% concentration of vitamin C.

But just be aware that the formula does contain lavender oil and orange oil – both are known skin irritants for sensitive skin types!

If you don’t have sensitive skin, and need a product that tackles uneven and dull skin complexion:

Most users are pleased with this product, owing to that fact that it makes their skin brighter and more hydrated! Some even experienced improvement with dark spots and acne scars.

However, there is a risk of allergic reactions and tiny bumps forming after use. And many observe a slight tingling or burning sensation upon application.

And for those with oily skin, use this product sparingly as it can be quite greasy.

Note: To use the vitamin C serum, apply the serum (half of the dropper) onto your skin before massaging it in with clean hands.

Plus, the hot weather in Malaysia means you must use the Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop up as quickly as you can! Due to the rapid oxidation process, a few users had to dispose of their unfinished product.

Note: Keep this one in the fridge so it can last longer!

Pros:

• Absorbs well
• Brightens complexion
• Hydrating ingredients (butylene glycol, sodium hyaluronate, propylene glycol)
• Paraben-free, sulfate-free, alcohol-free, silicone-free
• Evens out skin texture
• May improve dark spots and acne marks

Cons:

• Water based formula in a clear bottle
• May reduce dark spots but not acne scars
• Unstable product and quick oxidation
• May not be suitable for sensitive skin (risk of allergic reaction)

3. Garnier Light Complete Vitamin C Booster Serum

Best Drugstore Option

Garnier’s Light Complete Vitamin C Booster Serum is best for oily skin types or those prone to acne.

As it has salicylic acid and lemon fruit extract! That does however, mean that it’s not suitable for sensitive skin since these ingredients can irritate skin.

Other than its budget-friendly price, users also like that it refreshes and brightens the skin. And for those with acne scars or dark pigmentation, this serum has improved their overall complexion!

Additionally, the Garnier Light Complete Vitamin C Booster Serum absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a heavy or sticky feel behind.

But only if you use the right amount – too much can leave your pores clogged and lead to breakouts!

And for some, there are no observable changes even after one bottle! But at least the Garnier Light Complete Vitamin C Booster Serum is not expensive!

Thus, the Garnier Light Complete Vitamin C Booster Serum is our pick for the top drugstore vitamin C serum.

Pros:

• Halal
• Paraben-free, sulfate-free, silicone-free
• Affordable
• May reduce dark spots and acne scars

Cons:

• Contains alcohol
• Contains fragrance (Linalool and Limonene)
• Overuse can lead to clogged pores

4. Timeless 20% Vitamin C + E + Ferulic Acid Serum

Best Overall & Best For Oily Skin

For a pretty penny, the clear Timeless 20% Vitamin C + E + Ferulic Acid Serum lightens dark spots in weeks!

Its light feathery consistency allows for quick absorption. Plus, it assists in diminishing those pesky dark spots and acne marks!

The Timeless 20% Vitamin C + E + Ferulic Acid Serum is a suitable candidate for all skin types, including those with acne-prone skin. Try it out if you want to reduce signs of aging and minimize wrinkles and fine lines.

However, it does oxidize very fast in Malaysian weather. So keep it in the fridge!

Note: Use it within 3 months.

Other than that, there are no glaring flaws for this product. It keeps skin radiant and glowing. And for some, it does lighten spots and marks on the face!

Moreover, it notably posses a lightweight non-greasy texture. And those with sensitive skin report no signs of irritation post-use. But to be safe, always do a patch test first!

Both the By Wishtrend Pure Vitamin C 21.5% Advanced Serum and Timeless 20% Vitamin C + E + Ferulic Acid Serum have a vitamin C concentration of 20% in water-based formulas (less stable) but the By Wishtrend Pure Vitamin C 21.5% Advanced Serum is cheaper.

However, one advantage the Timeless 20% Vitamin C + E + Ferulic Acid Serum has over the By Wishtrend Pure Vitamin C 21.5% Advanced Serum is that it has all 3 – L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Ferulic Acid as the main ingredients.

For that, the Timeless 20% Vitamin C + E + Ferulic Acid Serum is our overall winner for the best vitamin C serum in Malaysia. Even if it’s one of the most pricey and has a water-based formula!

Pros:

• Paraben-free, fragrance-free and dye-free
• Cruelty-free
• Has tocopherol and ferulic acid to accompany the L-Ascorbic Acid
• Effective in lightening marks, spots, and scars
• Lightweight texture

Cons:

• Water based formula (Less stable and oxidizes quickly)
• Pump has a tendency to leak

5. Melano CC Vitamin C Brightening Essence

Most Stable & Best Budget Vitamin C Serum

Another water-based vitamin C serum:

The Melano CC Vitamin C Brightening Essence is a Japanese product with both ascorbic acid and ascorbyl palmitate to help fade acne scars and reduce the appearance of dark spots!

Perfect for those who want spotless fair skin with a healthy glow!

However, because of its greasier consistency:

Some users who have sensitive skin or struggle with pimples experience breakouts post-use. Other critics say they don’t see any lightening or brightening effects.

Yet some remark that the Melano CC Vitamin C Brightening Essence clears up their skin and gives it a more radiant glow! With improvements in spots and scars after merely 2-3 weeks’ of use!

What makes this product unique from this list of vitamin C serums however, is its packaging. The sealed tip at the end of each tube will hinder the oxidation process. And keep the serum effective for longer periods of time!

This makes the Melano CC Vitamin C Brightening Essence one of the most stable vitamin C serums you can get.

Besides this, the Melano CC Vitamin C Brightening Essence is one of the more affordable vitamin C serums on the market. You can try it if you don’t have acne-prone or sensitive skin.

Pros:

• Paraben-free, sulfate-free, alcohol-free, silicone-free
• Affordable
• Has vitamin E too
• Packaging slows down oxidation process
• Fights dark spots and post-acne marks

Cons:

• Contains fragrance
• Slightly sticky
• May lead to breakouts or irritation (not suitable for acne-prone or sensitive skin)

6. The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%

Avoid using this product if you have oily skin as it does have some comedogenic ingredients.

Otherwise, The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres all the way from Canada does a great job in lessening scars and balancing out your skin tone!

However, this vitamin C serum has an unusual texture which is rough and grainy (due to the powder form of the ascorbic acid). Plus it may not sit well on your skin. So use a small amount, and preferably at night.

And for those with sensitive skin, do be careful too as some report reactions such as redness and bumps post-application!

Many also notice a tingling sensation that can be quite uncomfortable. And they recommend ceasing the product if it burns or stings.

So if you can tolerate the way The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres serum feels (and smells) and don’t experience initial discomfort, you can use it to help minimize pores and smooth out uneven skin texture to produce a natural glowing look!

Another cool thing about The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres serum is that the vitamin C is relatively more stable in its water-free suspension formula!

Pros:

• Paraben-free, sulfate-free, water-free, alcohol-free, oil-free, silicone-free, nut-free
• Vegan, gluten-free, cruelty-free
• 23% L-Ascorbic Acid powder in water-free suspension
• Enhances glow and improves uneven skin
• May minimize pores

Cons:

• Smells weird
• Grainy texture
• May cause allergic reaction (bumps and redness)
• Runny texture (you may accidentally squeeze out too much)
• May cause tingling or slight burning sensation

7. Some By Mi Galactomyces Pure Vitamin C Glow Serum

Best For Lightening Hyperpigmentation

Some By Mi Galactomyces Pure Vitamin C Glow Serum will bring a glow to your skin without leaving a sticky or oily feeling!

The brand claims that the galactomyces content moisturizes skin and boosts elasticity!

Note: The oxidation process is fast for this product! Store the serum in a refrigerator to slow down oxidation.

It surprisingly can improve hyperpigmentation – if you’re lucky, you’ll notice dark spots fading. Wrinkles and fine lines are also less visible.

And you should observe a brighter and smoother complexion after consistent use of the Some By Mi Galactomyces Pure Vitamin C Glow Serum too.

But for some, the vitamin C serum may cause breakouts.

While others find that the Some By Mi Galactomyces Pure Vitamin C Glow Serum does not irritate their sensitive skin. Patch testing is still always recommended beforehand.

Note: This brand has a great face serum for acne-prone skin too!

Pros:

• Paraben-free, sulfate-free, alcohol-free, silicone-free
• Smells nice (citrus)
• Free of artificial fragrances and colors
• Free from animal products

Cons:

• May irritate sensitive skin (contains lavender oil and fragrance)
• Water based (prone to oxidation)
• May cause breakouts

8. Ruruberry 5% Ethyl Ascorbic Acid

Most Comfortable

Ruruberry 5% Ethyl Ascorbic Acid introduces another new derivative of vitamin C, ethyl ascorbic acid or EAC:

This form of vitamin C is more stable when exposed to air. And yes the pH level is higher (ph 4.6±) than other vitamin C serums.  But more compatible with the skin’s natural pH.

We like that the formula consists of hydrating ingredients (sodium hyaluronate, glycerin and squalene), other anti-oxidants, and many naturally soothing ingredients (e.g., aloe, witch hazel water, etc) as well!

Users appreciate the non-greasy consistency of this product. And note that it absorbs easily and leaves no residue or sticky feel.

There may be improvements in terms of adding clarity to skin complexion and fading dark spots.

However, many are not big fans of the packaging. Because of its slightly thicker and creamier texture, the serum gets trapped in the dropper which makes application a little frustrating.

So if the feel of the serum is important to you, you might find the Ruruberry 5% Ethyl Ascorbic Acid a comfortable option for a vitamin C serum in Malaysia. It’s affordable too and contains other beneficial plant-based ingredients.

Pros:

• Alcohol free
• Herbal scent
• Reasonable price point
• Also with ferulic acid
• Water based
• Many antioxidants (centella, polygonum cuspidatum root extract, rosemary leaf, etc)
• With brightening ingredient, licorice too

Cons:

• Pump dispenser is sold separately
• Serum gets stuck in dropper

9. By Wishtrend Pure Vitamin C 21.5% Advanced Serum

Most Effective (20% L-ascorbic acid)

There’s 20% concentration of ascorbic acid in the By Wishtrend Pure Vitamin C 21.5% Advanced Serum.

All-in-one, the brand claims that this product whitens, moisturizes, repairs, and evens skin!

And after a few months of using it, many see an improvement in acne scars and other blemishes! It makes the complexion more radiant and smoother too.

Even then, this serum has its bad points. Firstly, some dislike the strong ‘orangey’ smell. And the oxidation process is very fast if you keep it out of the fridge.

Other than that, because of its high vitamin C concentration:

It may sting or burn the skin a little upon application. Hence, those with sensitive skin should be extra cautious. Especially so if they incorporate this in their daytime regime.

In fact, the brand recommends using sunblock with SPF of at least 30 when using this product in the day.

It’s a matter of weighing faster results and risk of skin irritation and fast oxidation with the By Wishtrend Pure Vitamin C 21.5% Advanced Serum.

If you don’t mind taking some risk, you might find the By Wishtrend Pure Vitamin C 21.5% Advanced Serum to be one of the most effective vitamin C serums you have tried.

Pros:

• Paraben-free, sulfate-free, alcohol-free, silicone-free
• Not sticky
• Brightens skin tone
• Diminishes spots and marks

Cons:

• The packaging alone is not reliable at preserving the serum (Fast oxidation)
• Some may not be fond of the smell
• Slight stinging or burning sensation upon application

10. ArtNaturals Anti-Aging Vitamin C Serum

ArtNaturals Anti-Aging Vitamin C Serum absorbs well. And has ingredients like witch hazel, aloe leaf juice and chamomile to calm irritated skin.

Many users with sensitive skin are happy that this product moisturizes the skin and fades sunspots without being irritating!

Moreover, it enhances the glow of your skin and can even reduce redness for acne-prone skin! Reviewers also note that it aids in boosting skin elasticity. And gives them a youthful complexion!

However, it may sting a little when you use it. And may cause your skin to breakout, according to some negative reviews. There are users who experience dry flaky skin after using this too.

Furthermore, the overly watery consistency may make application tough.

That said, those with dull aging skin may still want to give the ArtNaturals Anti-Aging Vitamin C Serum! With patience, skin will eventually look more even and radiant!

Pros:

• Has ferulic acid
• Paraben-free, sulfate-free, alcohol-free, silicone-free
• Increases skin elasticity and youthfulness
• Adds radiance and lightens dark spots or marks

Cons:

• Water-based serum (not as stable)
• May dry out skin (for dry skin types)
• May cause skin to breakout

11. Paula’s Choice Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum

Best For Dry Skin

This heavyweight antioxidant serum from Paula’s Choice is chock full of a lot of goodies:

Among these are vitamin A, C and ceramides – and these are great for hydration and brightening!

The texture of the Paula’s Choice Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum is a gel and despite being oil-free, it feels very heavy and greasy on the skin (if you put too much) although this does not hinder how it absorbs into the skin.

So those with dry skin will definitely benefit from the Paula’s Choice Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum.

And because of its thick, silicone-like consistency, it can be used as a primer as it gives a smooth texture to your skin under make up.

However, if you would rather have a vitamin C serum with a lighter consistency, we suggest the Timeless 20% Vitamin C + E + Ferulic Acid Serum over the Paula’s Choice Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum.

It’s also worth noting that the Paula’s Choice Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum can cause breakouts. To prevent this, simply mix it with your regular moisturizer before applying it onto your face.

Note: Always do a patch test first!

This aside, a lot of users find that the Paula’s Choice Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum smooths and brightens their complexion. It is especially great at keeping the skin hydrated!

As a final note, the Paula’s Choice Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum may be very well worth the investment if you have a larger budget, dry skin and no troubles with fungal acne.

Note: Some of the ingredients such as bearberry extract and palm oil may aggravate conditions like fungal acne.

Pros:

• Oil-free, alcohol-free, fragrance-free
• Hydrates skin well
• Visibly brightens skin
• Great for dry skin types
• Makes a good primer
• Press pump packaging keeps everything sanitary

Cons:

• Thick consistency with a heavy feel
• May cause skin to breakout – thus, not suitable for those with fungal acne
• Expensive

What’s A Vitamin C Serum?

As the very term suggests, this is a serum containing vitamin C that you can apply on your skin as part of your daily beauty routine.

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is not just for boosting your immune system (like probiotics) or for healthy gums and teeth!

This vitamin is vital for skin growth and repair. It helps with collagen production too.

And since collagen is what gives your skin its elasticity, vitamin C is a popular anti-aging ingredient in the best whitening creams and eye creams!

What Are The Benefits Of Using Vitamin C Serum?

Other anti-aging benefits of Vitamin C:

• All skin types can use it
• Brightens and evens out your skin tone
• Lightens hyper pigmentation
• Fades under-eye circles
• Acts as an anti-oxidant against sun damage (*1)
• Retains moisture in your skin

With so many potential benefits, you’ll be tempted to include a vitamin C serum as part of your skincare routine in Malaysia!

How To Test Your Skin Sensitivity To A New Vitamin C Serum

Do the patch test:

1. Dab a small amount into the crook of your arm
2. Leave it there for 24 hours
3. Stop using the product if you start seeing redness, a rash or hives on your skin

Note: L-ascorbic acid may cause irritation in sensitive skins. If so, the next form you can try is magnesium ascorbyl phosphate.

When & How To Use A Vitamin C Serum

A vitamin C serum can be used in the morning on a clean face after using your facial cleanser and toner.

Wait a good minute before applying your moisturizer. Followed by sunscreen (at least SPF 30) before heading outdoors because UV light makes vitamin C less effective!

Thus, it’s advisable to use your vitamin C serum at night instead of daytime.

Also be sure to avoid using products containing benzoyl peroxide or niacinamide together with your vitamin C serum! As these particular chemicals actually make vitamin C less potent.

Note: Formulas containing niacinamide were formally though to reduce the efficacy of the vitamin C.

There’s no problem with using your serum twice a day. But for higher concentrations, this is actually pointless! As the skin can only absorb so much!

Conclusion

If your skin can take it, the best vitamin C serum in Malaysia 2022 should include L-ascorbic acid, vitamin E and ferulic acid!

Vitamin C expires fast so prolong the life of your vitamin C serum by keeping it in the fridge!

Further reading:

• 15 Best Shampoos In Malaysia 2022
• 15 Best Cleansing Oils In Malaysia 2022
• 13 Best Hair Tonics In Malaysia 2022
• 13 Best Breast Pumps In Malaysia 2022
• 15 Best Eye Creams In Malaysia 2022