The Best Brightening and Vitamin C Endorsed by New York’s Top Dermatologist

Meet Dr. David Kim, M.D., M.S., a Stanford-trained, board-certified dermatologist residing in the heart of New York City. With the flawless skin of a baby and nearly 90,000 followers on TikTok, Dr Kim is your go-to expert in the exhilarating arena of BeautyTok. And we are thrilled to share his curated list of the best brightening serums and Vitamin C products available today.

detail of a hand trying some drops os a brightening serum on her hand

Spotlight on the Best Brightening Ingredients

  • Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): This multi-faceted gem is praised for its prowess in diminishing redness, enhancing skin elasticity, and lightening dark spots by decelerating melanin transfer to the skin’s surface.
  • Glycolic Acid: As a stellar alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), glycolic acid sloughs off dead skin cells, diminishing pigmentation, refining pores, and unveiling a rejuvenated skin texture through the promotion of new cell turnover.
  • Retinoids: These vitamin A derivatives are potent exfoliants that speed up cell renewal and visibly reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone, crafting a flawless canvas.
  • Lactic Acid: Known for its gentle exfoliating properties, lactic acid is another AHA hero that ensures your skin remains smooth and youthful.
  • Tranexamic Acid: Take note of this breakthrough ingredient! Tranexamic acid has emerged as a powerhouse in skin brightening, especially effective in addressing hyperpigmentation and melasma. Originally developed to curb excessive bleeding, it now stands as the skincare industry’s next big revolution. By disrupting melanin production pathways it tackles even the most stubborn pigmentation challenges.

A skin serum applicator lay on a half orange

Why Vitamin C is Essential for Your Skincare Arsenal

Vitamin C serum is a pivotal addition to any skincare routine because of its potent antioxidant properties. This key ingredient combats free radicals from everyday pollutants and UV exposure that hasten skin ageing. Regular indulgence in Vitamin C shields your skin and imbues it with a luminous glow. It’s instrumental in boosting collagen production, which is crucial for maintaining supple, taut skin. Known for its brightening abilities, Vitamin C helps diminish dark spots and even skin tone, giving you a visibly refreshed and youthful complexion. Make Vitamin C serum a staple in your daily skincare to witness transformative results.

Dr. David Kim’s Top Picks for Brightening Serums and Vitamin C

Skinceutical Vitamin C

Paula’s Choice C15 Vitamin C Super Booster

Maelove Glow Maker Vitamin Serum

The Inkey Tranexamic Acid Serum

Olay Vitamin C Regenerist Vitamin C + Peptide 24 Face Moisturiser

L’oreal Retinol Serum

The Ordinary Lactic Acid

Indulge in these dermatologist-approved selections to elevate your skin game to luminous heights. And don’t forget to apply your sunscreen every day. Check out Dr. David Kim’s award-winning sunscreen.