I keep my skin care routine as simple — and cheap — as possible: A gentle cleanser, lightweight moisturizer and skin-friendly Korean sunscreen are usually all I need. As a fan of under-$25 skin care with sensitive skin, I usually steer clear of expensive vitamin C serums, despite their promises for brighter, more even skin. That is, until I found Cocokind’s Vitamin C Glow Serum.
I first heard about this product when doing previous reporting about people’s “holy grail” beauty products. For that story, HuffPost operations coordinator Alexandra Niforos recommended the Cocokind serum. “I’m on at least my 10th bottle of this vitamin C serum,” she said. “I feel like it’s more affordable than a lot of vitamin C serums, and it’s never broken me out. I used to get a lot of acne, and it’s cleared up all the scars I had on my face, which is amazing.”
My skin is sensitive and acne-prone, not to mention my struggles with eczema, so I was immediately intrigued by the Cocokind serum’s seal of acceptance from the National Eczema Association. Like Niforos, I haven’t broken out since adding it to my routine, and instead, the formula feels refreshing, light and gentle on my face (if a little sticky; just wait a few minutes to let it absorb first).
The gentleness stems from the formula: This serum contains a low concentration (2%) of ascorbyl glucoside, a stable and more gentle derivative of L-ascorbic acid, which is the chemical name for pure vitamin C. That’s in addition to other skin-nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, azelaic acid and sea grape caviar extract.
The affordable serum has earned its place in my regular skin care rotation.
I put this on at night after I shower, and two drops are about all I need to pat into my face. It feels extra-refreshing because I store mine in the fridge to keep it from oxidizing. It leaves my face feeling nice and smooth after it’s fully absorbed, which is when I follow up with my regular moisturizer. I was skeptical at first, because I’m pretty averse to building a skin care routine with a ton of unnecessary steps, but using this couldn’t be easier.
Niforos and I aren’t the only fans, either. Reviewers have hailed the “glowy skin in a bottle” for the non-oily, non-irritating feel and how “it layers really well under moisturizer and sunscreen,” something I agree with.
“I use this once a day, and my skin has been the best it has ever looked in a while. It makes my skin literally glow, and I no longer have to wear foundation since I started using it,” one reviewer wrote. Another claimed they even used the serum to prep their skin to be fresh and soft on their wedding day. “My skin is noticeably hydrated, soft, and supple, especially in my T-zone and around my mouth,” they said.
Considering that so many vitamin C serums retail for well over $30, $50 or even $100, I’m so happy to have found this affordable alternative in Cocokind. “This product works just as great as high end products,” one reviewer wrote. Below, check out more glowing reviews for this serum (pun intended). This one is worth adding to your cart.
The original version of this story was published on HuffPost at an earlier date.
“I couldn’t write enough good reviews about this product if given the chance. I have used this everyday for two years, except for the short time I decided to try a different vitamin c serum that was k beauty and highly recommended online. That serum my face was breaking out and my milia came back. The cocokind vitamin c serum keeps my milia gone or almost gone. The first day back to using it after that hiatus I instantly had a milia spot start itching on my cheek and had one of the milia “balls” roll right out (looks like but cannot be popped like a pimple due to layers of skin etc). I recommend this to everyone I know. I have never had such clear, soft skin besides when I’m using it!” — Taylor Motley
“After 3 days of use I’ve already noticed results! This product is amazing. I have sensitive and oily skin, this didn’t bother my skin at all.” — Isabella
“I chose cocokind when I went to ulta because it was on sale as my first time adding a vitamin c serum to my routine. I have sensitive and acne prone skin, and was nervous about adding this in, but I’m so impressed! I bought my second bottle and the first one lasted for months. My friends noticed my bright complexion and I noticed my even skin tone. I put it on after cleansing and using a gentle facial mist/toner. It didn’t burn or itch at all. It is a little sticky after patting in, but this goes away after moisturizing. I wait a few minutes before putting my moisturizer and spf on and the stickiness is gone. Definitely something I will keep in my daytime routine!” — LA
“This is a great product. I couldn’t imagine how many times I’ve repurchased. I use before moisturizer in the morning and notice a difference in the glowiness of my skin, even once makeup is applied. There is a bit of “tackiness” but once I add moisturizer it’s perfect.” — Courtney
“The best Vit C I’ve used and love the azelaic acid component!! In a transitional period with my hormones, I was experiencing acne like I’ve never had before. This absolutely saved my skin and has become a holy grail to brighten skin and regulate dark spots from past breakouts. Love love love!!” — Adriana M.
Check out a few more vitamin C serums from previous reporting by HuffPost senior shopping writer Lourdes Avila Uribe:
Maelove
Maelove Glow Maker antioxidant serum
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.
Dermstore
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic acid serum
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 well-regarded 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
Sephora
Paula’s Choice C15 Vitamin C Super Booster
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
