6 Of The Best Vitamin C Moisturisers To Hydrate And Illuminate

We’re about to cross a line we never thought we’d cross. And that is? Suggesting that you skip your vitamin C serum. There’s no doubt about it, a good vitamin C serum will visibly brighten your skin as it fades acne scars and pigmentation. However, for certain skin types, it might cause some irritation in the process.

When used in higher concentrations, vitamin C can trigger our skin to become red, irritated and on occasion, peel. If this sounds like you and you’ve been avoiding vitamin C altogether, it might be worth sussing out whether your skin is better suited to a vitamin C-enriched moisturiser instead. 

Or, if you’re someone with a passion for streamlining their skin care routine, then you’ll love the idea of combining your vitamin C hit and moisturiser into one simple and ultra-hydrating step.

What is the difference between a vitamin C serum and vitamin C moisturiser?

Mainly, the consistency. A serum is a thinner liquid that typically contains a higher concentration of vitamin C. Vitamin C moisturisers, on the other hand, contain the brightening ingredient also known as L-ascorbic acid, but are formulated into a cream that is designed to boost hydration (while also being gentler on skin). Plus, if you’ve found your vitamin C serum causes your foundation to pill, a moisturiser might be a more suitable option to pair with your makeup.

Our favourite vitamin C moisturisers….

Paula’s Choice C5 Super Boost Moisturizer

Introducing the newest addition to the Paula’s Choice Super Booster family: the C5 Super Booster Moisturiser. This gel-cream moisturiser works to deliver the firming and brightening benefits of a vitamin C serum while simultaneously strengthening the skin’s barrier and injecting a 24-hour dose of hydration. 

$63 at Paula’s Choice 

Trilogy Vitamin C Moisturising Lotion

We say: If it’s a boost in overall brightness that you’re after, we (heavily) suggest daily use of Trilogy’s Vitamin C Moisturising Lotion. The combination of vitamin C with daisy extract and rosehip oil helps to keep the skin looking illuminated and free from lingering and stubborn pigmentation.

You say: “I have always been one that watches on while others thrive with reaping the benefits of vitamin c in skincare products. No matter what I’ve used, be it serum or face cream without a doubt I break out. After using this for a week I’ve found my skin really likes this moisturising lotion and have found my skin stays hydrated all day, does not become oily at all and looks radiant.” – Saffy86

Want to know more? Read Trilogy Vitamin C Moisturising Lotion reviews here…

$27.99 at Chemist Warehouse

Sunday Riley C.E.O. Vitamin C Rich Hydration Cream

No vitamin C roundup is complete without a product from Sunday Riley’s best-selling C.E.O range. In particular the 5 per cent vitamin C and lime pearl-infused rich cream. Offering targeted anti-ageing properties paired with gentle exfoliation, the Rich Hydration Cream leaves skin looking bright and bouncy.

$98 at MECCA

Olay Niacinamide + Vitamin C Moisturiser

We say: Brighten, correct and hydrate with Olay’s dermatologist-tested moisturiser. This lightweight cream combines two of our all-time favourite skin care ingredients, niacinamide and vitamin C, to deliver instant radiance without the greasy residue. 

You say: “After application, my skin feels so hydrated and plump. Even though the formula is very light and does not feel sticky at all. It provides the right amount of moisture, even during the winters. After a continued use for nearly two months, I can see that the acne marks are now much lighter.” – aarti007

Want to know more? Olay Niacinamide + Vitamin C Moisturiser read reviews here…

$50.99 at Chemist Warehouse

Essano Vitamin C Brightening SPF 15 Moisturiser

We say: It may be lightweight in texture, but this formula is heavy-hitting when it comes to efficiency. Essano’s radiance-boosting moisturiser contains vitamins A, B, and C to rejuvenate dull, tired skin. The result? A smooth and glowing complexion.

You say: “After using the whole regimen, my skin is looking fantastic! My complexion appears brighter, firmer, more lifted & wide-awake – & remains blemish-free. The moisturiser sinks in quickly without leaving a greasy feel.” – Misfortunat8

Want to know more? Read Essano Vitamin C Brightening SPF 15 Moisturiser reviews here…

$19.49 at Chemist Warehouse

La Roche-Posay Redermic C10 Anti-Ageing Moisturiser

We say: This one is less suited to sensitive skin types and more suited to those seeking to streamline their routine. The multi-purpose cream combines 10 percent pure vitamin C with hyaluronic acid and vitamin E to brighten dark spots and combat fine lines and wrinkles.

You say: “This feels light on my skin even though my skin feelings incredibly seriously nourished. It feels like it keeps my skin feeling cared for especially in my areas that are ageing faster like around my eyes.” – Clearcrystalwater 

Want to know more? Read La Roche-Posay Redermic C10 Anti-Ageing Moisturiser reviews here…

$59.49 at Chemist Warehouse

Have you tried any of these vitamin C moisturisers? If not, would you like to?