Discover three Korean skincare alternatives to vitamin C and niacinamide to brighten your skin. Learn about licorice root extract, glycomysis ferment filtrate, and rice extract that help fade dark spots, improve skin texture, and promote cell renewal.
As you probably know, I really love Korean Skincare products as they are always very effective yet gentle on the skin. Vitamin C serums are a huge staple in Korean Skincare routines as they can really brighten up the skin and fade away hyperpigmentation as well.
HSGN, the brand that gave us the best Korean dupe of SkinCeuticals' Vitamin C, now brings us the ultimate version with concentrated, unrivalled benefits. HSGN Pure 20% Vitamin C E Ferulic Acid Ampoule contains concentrated 20% L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) that adds reliable yet intense antioxidant benefits to the skin.
Skin benefits of vitamin C
A few clinical studies have demonstrated that vitamin C can improve wrinkles. One study showed that daily use of a vitamin C formulation for at least three months improved the appearance of fine and coarse wrinkles of the face and neck, as well as improved overall skin texture and appearance.
While Vitamin C serum is generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience skin irritation, especially if they have sensitive skin. Symptoms of irritation can include redness, itching, and a burning sensation.
Aside from SkinCeuticals, there are several other brands that make good vitamin C products. We love Timeless Skin Care for its 20% Vitamin C + E Ferulic Acid Serum and 20% C + E + Ferulic Acid Serum, which are comparable to the SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic.
Dedicated to providing advanced skincare backed by science, SkinCeuticals is a US skincare brand. Sold in 25 countries around the world through a network of dermatologists, plastic surgeons, medical spas, select pharmacies, and premium spas.
Bakuchiol extract comes from the Babchi plant, known for its purple blossoms and its use in Chinese and Indian medicine. The extract can be found in daily moisturizers, serums and creams. “Bakuchiol is often used as a gentler alternative to retinol.
Collagen
Collagen is a protein that provides structural support to the skin, hair, and nails. Recognizing the role of collagen in maintaining youthful skin, many Koreans incorporate collagen supplements into their beauty regimen.
3 Korean Alternatives To Vitamin C My recommended products: Licorice Root Extract 1. It's Skin Power 10 Serum 2. Acwell Licorice Toner 3. Aperire Frozen Pore Mask Galactomyces 1.
Best for Anti-Aging: Iope Retinol Super Bounce Serum
Retinol is one of the most popular anti-aging ingredients in skin care, but you don't often see it used in K-beauty. Of the few retinol options on offer, the Iope Retinol Super Bounce Serum is a frequent expert pick. Cho says it's her favorite formula.
10% 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid.
1. Sulwhasoo. Pronounced “Suhl-ha-soo," this skincare brand was founded on the philosophy of balance. Utilising Korea's finest natural ingredients, Sulwhasoo is one of the best selling Korean brands on the market.
The Ordinary's Granactive Retinoid is about to take your beauty routine to the next level. Back in January 2018, Kardashian said this retinoid had “so many benefits, like reducing dark spots, preventing wrinkles, smoothing fine lines and so much more,” according to Allure.
Bakuchiol: Nature's Answer To Retinol
Among beauty and skincare enthusiasts, the focus has shifted towards natural, plant-based ingredients that lend the same benefits as retinol. Bakuchiol, for instance, is regarded as one of the most effective natural retinol alternatives out in the market today.
Our overall winner is the SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic—a staff and industry favorite—for its impressive brightening power. For first-time users, we chose the TruSkin Vitamin C Serum for its high-performing yet simple formula.
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Ingredients
When formulated correctly, it has a skin-brightening effect and the ability to improve the skin's collagen production. It's also a powerful antioxidant that can protect the skin from premature aging.
Which is better? While both products contain similar actives, SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic has been rigorously tested for efficacy and offers unmatched antioxidant protection. However, Drunk Elephant is a more budget-friendly option with comparable benefits.
4) Why does my skin look darker after using Vitamin C? If you are applying Vitamin C without sunscreen, it is likely that the Vitamin C degrades into Erythrulose, which is an ingredient you will find in many self-tanners. So please make sure you apply sunscreen always after applying Vitamin C.