Having healthy and radiant skin is something that everyone desires. But, achieving it takes effort and dedication. Fortunately, with the help of the best vitamin C cleansers, getting flawless skin is now easier. Ascorbic acid, which is the main component of vitamin C, is known to be a potent antioxidant vitamin with a variety of impressive benefits (1). Vitamin C can make fine lines disappear, repair uneven skin tone, increase collagen production, and even heal skin problems such as spots, pimples, and sunburn (2). Truly, it's an all-in-one active ingredient that can address all your skin concerns.

Our contributor Dr. Zeeshan Afzal, MD at Welzo, an online healthcare platform, says, “You can incorporate a vitamin C cleanser into your skincare routine as your morning and evening cleanser. Vitamin C cleansers can help remove impurities and provide antioxidant protection during the day. To maximize the benefits of vitamin C, you may also consider using a vitamin C serum or moisturizer as part of your routine.

Using cleansers is an essential part of everyone's daily routine. Therefore, it’s best to invest in products that are specially formulated to suit your skin type. Luckily, vitamin C cleansers are ideal for most skin problems. Thus, in this article we've listed the top 13 vitamin C facial cleansers to help you find the one that best suits your skin's needs.

Keep reading to discover the perfect vitamin C cleanser for you. By selecting a product that fits your skin type, you can help maintain your skin's health, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Say goodbye to your skin concerns and say hello to the beauty that vitamin C cleansers can bring!

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  Best Overall

  Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash

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For a  refreshing change in your skincare routine, try this enriched cleanser, featuring 2% salicylic acid and vitamin C for a brightening boost. Infused with the goodness of pink grapefruit, the formula lathers luxuriously to effectively banish dark spots and blackheads. This cleansing powerhouse effortlessly removes oil and dirt, leaving your skin revitalized without causing dryness or skin irritation. Thanks to MicroClear technology, it works directly at the root of acne and breakouts, eliminating excess oil. And it's not just good for your skin — when paired with other sun protection measures, it also reduces the risk of sunburn, skin cancer, and premature aging.

2

Best Exfoliating

InstaNatural Vitamin C Cleanser

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This vitamin C face cleanser is your ticket to achieving flawless skin! Packed with all the right ingredients such as aloe vera, coconut water, green tea extract, and sugar cane extract, it works wonders in reducing fine lines and dullness from your skin. Antioxidants found in vitamin C unclog pores, reduce breakouts, inflammation, and dark spots, giving you a radiant complexion (3). Each bottle varies in color, aroma, and texture due to the natural extracts and oils infused in it, so no need to fret — your flawless skin is just a wash away!

3

Best Vegan

TruSkin Vitamin C Brightening Cleanser

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This antioxidant-packed formula is truly among the best vitamin C cleansers as it promotes collagen production, boosts hydration and radiance while refining the tone and texture of your skin. It is gentle on the skin, yet effectively removes dead skin cells, resulting in a bright and glowing complexion. Packed with vitamin E for protecting skin from UV damage, organic rosehip oil for elasticity, and tea tree oil for anti-inflammatory and breakout prevention, this cleanser is your go-to for achieving clear and glowing skin.

4

Best Moisturizing

Naturium The Brightener Vitamin C Body Wash

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This innovative vitamin C body wash is the ultimate solution for all skin types. Its gel-cream texture boasts of gentle yet effective surfactants as well as ascorbyl glucoside — a stable form of vitamin C that works wonders to brighten dark spots and banish dullness (4). Complemented by bioactive fruit acids and enzymes, this formulation ensures softer, smoother, and visibly radiant-looking skin. The best part? It's a gentle vitamin C cleanser that you can use every day. Indulge in the silky sensation of this brightening body wash and unlock the full potential of your skin's natural glow.

5

Best Fragrance

RoC Multi Correxion Revive + Glow Gel Facial Cleanser With Vitamin C

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This innovative face wash is enriched with 3-O-Ethyl ascorbic acid (3OC), a highly-stable derivative of vitamin C that outshines regular ascorbic acid (5). This potent formula not only provides a generous dose of vitamin C but also boasts collagen synthesis and skin-evening abilities. Furthermore, it creates a barrier against damaging free radicals that wreak havoc on the skin. For the perfect finishing touch, this powerhouse concoction is laced with glycolic acid to effortlessly slough off dead skin cells, and packed with peptides that smooth out fine lines and wrinkles.

6

Best Organic

Eve Hansen Vitamin C Cleanser Face Wash

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With the perfect blend of tea tree oil and rosehip oil, this product is considered among the best vitamin C cleansers that does wonders to your skin. The tea tree oil works on reducing acne scars and inflammation, while the rosehip oil nourishes and rejuvenates your skin to leave you with a radiant glow. With organic aloe vera to moisturize and soothe your skin, the vitamin C content does the heavy lifting of boosting collagen production and diminishing fine lines and wrinkles. What's more, this gentle cleanser works to minimize pores without stripping the skin of its natural moisture, and is great for alleviating breakouts, sun spots, and skin discoloration — a must-have for anyone seeking beautiful, glowing skin!

7

Best Hydrating

IMAGE Skincare, VITAL C Hydrating Facial Cleanser

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Crafted by a plastic surgeon and an esthetician, this elite facial cleanser boasts the healing properties of sodium ascorbyl phosphate — a gentle derivative of Vitamin C. As it is absorbed by the skin, the compound morphs into ascorbic acid, relinquishing its potency but effectively catering to those with sensitive skin. In addition, it includes Vitamin A for blemish prevention and anti-aging benefits, orange peel extract to invigorate collagen synthesis and superoxide dismutase to stave off free radical harm (6). Wrapped up in a rich, indulgent formulation, this product is favored by users who relish massaging it into their face until the foam turns translucent.

8

Best Nourishing

Murad Environmental Shield Essential-C Cleanser

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Laden with skin-friendly vitamins, this cleanser by Murad diligently shields your skin from harmful free radicals and other skin-damaging agents. The infused vitamin C wards off skin damage while vitamin E lavishly nourishes the skin to ensure a rejuvenating and glowing skin (7) (8). Coupled with allantoin and panthenol, it moisturizes and hydrates the skin for an even younger-looking appearance. By clearing impurities caused by environmental pollution, this cleanser with vitamin C keeps you feeling clean, refreshed, and vibrant.

9

Best Biodegradable

Avalon Organics Cleansing Gel with Vitamin C

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Indulge in the magical effects of this vitamin C facial wash that purifies your skin by eliminating toxins and impurities. With a unique infusion of its key vitamin alongside white tea extracts, botanical cleansers, essential oils, and lemon bioflavonoids, this cleanser works wonders by revitalizing your complexion, fighting against harmful free radicals, and reversing the damaging effects of UV rays. Thanks to the presence of 2 powerful forms of vitamin C, it also gently exfoliates your skin and unclogs pores, leaving it fresh and radiant.

10

Best for All Skin Types

Botanic Tree Vitamin C Brightening Face Cleanser

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This innovative formula is designed to unclog pores, prevent breakouts and blemishes, while also protecting your skin from free radicals and discoloration. Infused with organic cucumber and enriched with green tea, aloe vera, and matricaria, this vitamin C facial cleanser is perfect for those with sensitive skin. It not only cleanses your skin without drying it out, but also nourishes it with vital nutrients to improve elasticity and hydration. Try this clean, effective formula for the ultimate glow!

11

goPure Vitamin C Cleanser

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This goPure vitamin C cleanser is your go-to solution for soft and smooth skin. Infused with powerful botanicals and clinically-tested active ingredients like aloe vera, rosehip oil, tea tree oil, and vitamin C, this facial cleanser removes impurities, toxins, and makeup to reveal a healthier and clearer complexion. Say goodbye to dark age spots and uneven skin tone, as the potent formula combats the appearance of sun damage and reduces the visible signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles. With this gentle, yet effective face wash you can now enjoy hydrated, refreshed, and radiant-looking skin all day long.

12

Perricone MD Vitamin C Ester Citrus Brightening Cleanser

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Get brighter, more radiant skin with the Perricone MD Vitamin C Ester Citrus Brightening Cleanser! This unique face cleanser is designed to improve your skin's texture and tone while reducing irritation and inflammation. Its nourishing formula brightens and moisturizes your face, leaving you with a smoother, healthier-looking complexion. With regular use, this cleansing face wash can even help reduce the appearance of dark circles. And because it's with vitamin C ester it works quickly and effectively to calm irritated skin.

13

belif Creamy Cleansing Foam Moist

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If you're looking for an effective cleanser that doesn't strip your skin of its natural oils, then the Belif Creamy Cleansing Foam is your go-to product. Infused with powerful ingredients like natural herbs, and humectants, this gentle cleanser removes impurities, makeup, and dirt while keeping your skin hydrated, soft, and supple. Plus, the apothecary herbs such as wormwood, soapberry, and sweet flag prevent breakouts, detoxify, cleanse, and soften your skin. Regardless of your skin type, even if you have sensitive skin, this vitamin C foaming face cleanser is perfect for you.

If you want your skin to have a healthy glow and radiance, finding the best vitamin C cleanser is a must. However, it's important to consider a few crucial factors before making your purchase. To help you make an informed decision, we've compiled a comprehensive buying guide that covers all the essential factors you should be aware of. Scroll down to know more!

Choosing the best vitamin C cleanser for your skin type can be a bit of a daunting task, but it is an important step in ensuring that your skin gets the nourishment it needs to stay healthy and vibrant. With so many options available on the market, it can be hard to know where to start. Here are a few things to consider when selecting a vitamin C face cleanser for your skin:

1. Determine Your Skin Type: 

Vitamin C cleansers work differently on different skin types. For instance, if you have dry skin, you may want to choose a more moisturizing cleanser that doesn't strip your skin of its natural oils. Conversely, if you have oily and acne-prone skin, a gentle, yet deep-cleansing formula might be a better choice.

2. Look for High-Quality Ingredients: 

When choosing a vitamin C cleanser, make sure to look for one that is made with high-quality, natural ingredients. Some key ingredients to look for include vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants. These ingredients will help to brighten and firm your skin while protecting it from  radical damage and environmental stressors.  

3. Consider Your Skincare Routine: 

Another factor to consider when selecting a vitamin C cleanser is your current skincare routine. If you already use other vitamin C products, you may want to opt for a cleanser that complements your existing routine. On the other hand, if you have sensitive skin, you may want to choose a gentle, fragrance-free option that won't irritate your skin.  

4. Check the Concentration of Vitamin C:

The concentration of vitamin C in a cleanser is important, as this will determine the effectiveness of the product. Look for a cleanser that contains at least 10% vitamin C to ensure maximum benefits.

5. Read Reviews And Do Your Research:

Finally, before making a purchase, it's important to read reviews and do your research. Look for cleansers with positive customer reviews and seek out recommendations from skincare experts. Don't be afraid to try a few different products to find the one that works best for you!

Vitamin C has been hailed as a miracle ingredient for skincare. Speaking of its effectiveness, our contributor Dr. Zeeshan says, “Results from using a vitamin C cleanser can vary depending on individual factors and the specific product. Cleansers are typically not left on the skin for an extended period, so their effects may not be as dramatic as leave-on products like serums or creams. You may notice immediate benefits such as a refreshed and brighter complexion after using a vitamin C cleanser. However, for long-term benefits like improved skin texture and reduced hyperpigmentation, it may take several weeks of consistent use. Keep in mind that results can vary from person to person.” 

Some of the benefits of vitamin C cleanser include:

1. Brighter Complexion:

Vitamin C has natural lightening properties that can help fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Regular use can give your skin a healthy and radiant glow. (9)

2. Antioxidant Protection:

Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that can protect your skin from harmful free radicals that cause premature aging and other damage (10).

3. Collagen Production:

Vitamin C is essential for the production of collagen, which is the main structural protein in your skin. Using a vitamin C cleanser can help boost collagen production, giving you firmer and more youthful-looking skin. (11)

4. Hydration:

Many vitamin C cleansers contain hydrating ingredients such as allantoin, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, etc. that keep your skin soft, smooth, and moisturized.

5. Anti-inflammatory:

Vitamin C has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe irritated and inflamed skin. This makes it an ideal ingredient for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin.

Overall, using a vitamin C cleanser can be a game-changer for your skincare routine. With its many benefits, it can help you achieve your best skin yet!

With the best vitamin C cleanser, your skin can achieve an unparalleled level of radiance. Thanks to its powerful antioxidant properties, vitamin C is capable of reducing fine lines, repairing uneven skin tones, and boosting collagen production for spotless, blemish-free skin. Moreover, the curated selection of products that we've reviewed contain no synthetic colors or preservatives, making them ideal for every skin type. However, for those with sensitive or dry skin types, we recommend selecting a lighter formula with a concentration of less than 20% L-ascorbic acid for optimal results. So go ahead and invest in a top-quality vitamin C cleanser — your skin will thank you with a gorgeous, youthful glow!

Contributor: Dr. Zeeshan Afzal, MD, Welzo Medical Officer