The road to healthy, glowing skin is filled with buzzy ingredients. From hyaluronic acid to peptide complexes, the list goes on and on. However, few are as important as vitamin C.

The natural antioxidant is a powerhouse and holds a plethora of skincare benefits. Brightening and evening skin tone are among vitamin C's top advantages. It's also a key component for treating many tell-tale signs of aging, like fine lines and dullness. As if that weren't enough, it protects against environmental stressors that cause harmful damage to the skin. 

In short, vitamin C is one of those ingredients your skincare routine needs. There are lots of ways to reap its benefits, so finding a product won't be a problem. The real task is deciding on the formula. Between serums, creams, and powders, finding the right formulation can be daunting. Below, we break down the differences between the three and how they can be added to your routine. 

Vitamin C Serums

Serums are a staple in skincare routines because of their targeted approach. Like a shot of green juice, they're made with highly concentrated ingredients. They penetrate deep below the skin's surface and work to improve issues at the cellular level. In the case of vitamin C, the serum works triple duty to aid in collagen production, reduce wrinkles, and add a shield of protection against the sun. 

The largest benefit of using a vitamin C serum is its potency. Many also include other powerful ingredients like vitamin E and ferulic acid in concentrated amounts. With that in mind, you'll need to use them with intention. Concentration levels of vitamin C can vary, but experts don't recommend using a solution over 20% as it can irritate the skin.

Consulting with your dermatologist before purchasing is always best to ensure that you're using the right levels for your skin's needs.

Vitamin C Creams

Those with sensitive skin may find a vitamin C serum too harsh, but that doesn't mean they can't still reap its benefits. A cream containing the ingredient is a good alternative and is gentler on the skin. Formulas usually have a rich consistency that's also very hydrating. 

While serums work well in treating intense concerns, vitamin C creams are ideal for brightening discolored areas. If under-eye darkness is one of your top issues, you can add a vitamin C eye cream to your routine. Daily face creams are another option that's great for evening tone all over.

Vitamin C Powders

Like a serum, vitamin C powders are very highly concentrated. This means they need to be treated with care. Storage is one of the main concerns as improper packaging can greatly affect the product. Regardless of shape or size, the powder needs to be housed in an airtight glass container that's darkly tinted to prevent degradation. 

Packaging aside, vitamin C powders offer unique customization. Instead of being a sole product, they can be added to your favorite serum or cream to reap the ingredient's benefits. This also allows you to effectively spot-treat a particularly pesky area.