Every now and then there’s a product that’s only available in the US, and beauty editors and skincare fanatics stock up on it whenever they go to the US (and then brag about their purchases on social media). This creates hype and buzz around a product that people want but can’t get their hands on. This was one of those times, and thankfully, Cerave Skin Renewing Vitamin C Serum (listed at £29, now £23.20), which holds the auspicious title of the best-selling Vitamin C serum in the US (it’s been selling like hotcakes in the US for six years), is finally available in the US through Boots.
Why is there so much hype and hype around Vitamin C serums when there are plenty of great ones readily available and have been for years? There are a few reasons.
Firstly, Vitamin C is a generally well-tolerated skincare ingredient, but when used in high concentrations, it can cause skin irritation. While you should aim for a 10 percent Vitamin C intake for optimal skin radiance, this amount can make things worse. It’s the height of a skincare dilemma. But that’s where Cerave comes in. Cerave is known for making products that are gentle on the skin barrier and respect the skin, which is why they’re a leading high street brand that dermatologists always recommend. This is thanks to their signature blend of three ceramides that soothe irritated skin, lock in moisture, and repair dry skin. And here, they combine a nice balance of 10 percent L-ascorbic acid, the most active and effective derivative of Vitamin C. So, if you’re having trouble with other high-concentration Vitamin C serums, Cerave’s product might just be what you’ve been waiting for.
Plus, a Vitamin C serum is a powerhouse that’s an absolute must-have in your skincare routine. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant known to brighten skin, reduce pigmentation and add a radiant glow. It’s also great at preventing UV damage, so when combined with your daily SPF, it adds an extra level of protection.
So, give it a try and see what you think…
First, the packaging. Vitamin C is an unstable skincare ingredient that degrades when exposed to oxygen. A good Vitamin C serum comes in a bottle that keeps out light and air, and of course this bottle does just that. When you open it, you have to press down on the nozzle to break the seal on the packaging, attach the nozzle and it’s ready to go. There’s also a protective coating on the outside so the effectiveness isn’t affected.
The product has a silky serum-like consistency and absorbs into the skin like a dream. It glides on so well that you don’t need much to massage it all over your face. This 30ml tube looks set to last a while, and it’s also very good value for money. Like all Cerave products, it’s fragrance-free (again, this can cause skin irritation, so not a consideration) and non-comedogenic so it won’t clog pores, making it ideal for oily skin, but a great product for all skin types, especially those looking to boost radiance and reduce pigmentation.
The only thing it can’t do is give your skin an instant glow. Vitamin C serums such as Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Vitamin C Serum, £58, contain glow-creating pigments – but you’re paying almost double for the privilege. Cerave’s Vitamin C serum creates a slightly velvety matte effect that allows your makeup to apply smoothly, so you can easily add glow to your make-up bag instead.
Will it be as popular here as it is in the US? We think so. You get a great amount of skin care benefits at a great price, but most importantly, you get a product that’s formulated with sensitive or reactive skin in mind, so you can use it with confidence that it’s only doing good things for your skin.
CeraVe Skin Renewing Vitamin C Serum£29, available now at Boots
