Vitamin C is a powerhouse ingredient in the skincare world, offering brightening, protective and skin-boosting benefits. If you’re someone with sensitive skin, though, you know that the idea of slathering on a vitamin C serum might sound like a one-way ticket to redness and irritation.

Sephora, Nordstrom

“Topical vitamin C can increase collagen production and reduce or prevent dark spots, but it can be irritating because of its acidic nature that can disrupt the skin’s natural barrier, especially in those who have sensitive skin,” said Dr. Jodi LoGerfo, a board-certified dermatologist.

Thankfully, experts say you can get the glow without the sting. The key? Choosing formulas that balance potency with soothing, skin-loving ingredients. We asked top dermatologists to share the vitamin C serums they actually trust to keep a reactive dermis happy. (We’ve also included a few editor’s picks at the end: products that I use and trust for my own sensitive skin.)

See the lineup ahead.

1. These glow-inducing drops

Sephora

Made up of a 20% vitamin C blend, this serum makes it possible to brighten and protect your complexion without running the risk of angering your skin. "I love this vitamin C serum because it gives the skin a visible radiant, glassy glow and it's super lightweight," says LoGerfo. Plus, the dropper applicator allows you to disperse the right amount of product, helping you avoid waste and over-application.

Get it from Amazon for $90.

2. This under-$20 option

Sephora

The Ordinary's vitamin C serum combines the potent ingredient with ginseng, an anti-inflammatory that helps reduce redness, irritation and flare-ups — perfect for reactive or easily stressed skin. "This product is something I often wear under sunblock — almost like a double defense," says LoGerfo. "I really feel like it gives dull, tired skin a boost."

Get it from Sephora for $14.

3. A vitamin C for dark spots

Amazon

“This serum is a great choice for sensitive skin because it’s unscented and contains a more tolerable form of vitamin C, O-ethyl ascorbic acid, at a tolerable yet still effective level (5%),” said Dr. Serena Mraz, board-certified dermatologist of Solano Dermatology and Associates. The addition of pomegranate stem cells in the formula give the serum an extra antioxidant boost to help brighten up those stubborn dark spots.

Get it from Amazon for $24.83.

4. A low-dose but still effective vitamin C

Amazon

For a fast-acting serum that's made with tolerable levels of vitamin C (10%, to be exact), board-certified dermatologist Dr. David Li recommends this one from RoC. “This is a reliable vitamin C serum with lower concentration than many products, which could be helpful in those with sensitive skin who cannot tolerate high concentrations of ascorbic acid,” he told us. In fact, it's so gentle it can be worn everyday.

Get it from Amazon for $23.99.

5. A hyaluronic acid-infused option

Amazon

For a vitamin C serum that hydrates and soothes as it brightens, this do-it-all formula is one to add to your cart. Ideal for sensitive-skinned people looking for an efficient option, this Li-approved formula not only improves uneven complexion and lighten dark spots, but it also attracts moisture and calms irritation with hyaluronic acid and aloe. 

Get it from Amazon for $21.99+ (available in two sizes).

6. A K-beauty vitamin C serum

Nordstrom

Sun spots, discoloration and dullness, begone. This K-beauty serum combines the potency of 20% vitamin C with ferulic acid to further enhance the effectiveness of the star ingredient. "The formula also contains hyaluronic acid for a hydrating effect, and does a very good job of adding a glowing appearance to the skin," said Li.

Get it from Nordstrom for $20.

Editor’s picks

7. A gentle formula

Amazon

Dermalogica's BioLumin-C serum delivers all the brightening power of vitamin C but in a way that sensitive skin can tolerate. Formulated with an ultra-stable, bioavailable form of vitamin C, the formula is made to be highly effective and gentle on the skin. That's thanks to the fact that it’s boosted with soothing ingredients like chia seed oil to support the skin barrier and reduce irritation.

Get it from Amazon for $39+ (available in three sizes).

8. This double-dose serum

Amazon

Vitamin C locks with kakadu plum, an Australian superfruit known to carry the highest natural concentration of vitamin C. The serum targets fine lines and wrinkles, dark spots and overall dullness for a smoother, more radiant complexion. Plus, it doesn't have an offensive smell or tingle on the skin, making it a great option for those with redness-prone skin.

Get it from Amazon for $31+ (available in two sizes).

9. A time-release serum

Sephora

Pretty packaging aside, Tatcha's The Brightening Serum is a true force when it comes to giving sensitive skin the brightness it needs without the irritation. The secret is in the formula's time-release vitamin C, which delivers the antioxidant slowly over 12 hours. This controlled delivery means you get longer-lasting protection and a gentler experience, especially if your skin is sensitive or easily irritated by traditional, fast-acting formulas.

Get it from Sephora for $89.

10. This skin-soothing formula

YSE Beauty

Your face deserves a cocktail, too. With three forms of stabilized vitamin C, niacinamide and azelaic acid, there's no chance your skin will look anything but radiant and even with this serum from YSE (pronounced “wise”) Beauty. To balance out any potential irritation, the formula includes soothing squalane along with moisture-attracting hyaluronic acid.

Get it from YSE Beauty for $85.