Garnier entered the vitamin C market with this affordable booster serum. It promises brightening and energizing tired skin at a fraction of premium C serum prices.
We tested it for 5 weeks on dull-toned skin. Result? Decent entry into vitamin C world, but don't expect miracles.
Ideal first step into the world of vitamin C.
3.5% concentration is lower than premium serums but suitable for beginners.
Performance & Results
Garnier Vitamin C offers mild brightening. After 5 weeks:
Brightening: Skin looks fresher and healthier. Effect is subtle.
Pigmentation: Not enough for real pigment spots. That requires higher concentration.
Energy: Skin looks less tired, especially in morning.
Protection: Antioxidant protection against free radicals.
Texture & Application
Light, watery serum with quick absorption.
During application: Pleasant texture, no stickiness.
Under makeup: Excellent base, doesn't interfere with makeup.
Scent: Light citrus fragrance. Pleasant for most but contains fragrance.
Packaging: Dropper with oxidation protection.
Formula & Ingredients
Garnier chose stable form of vitamin C.
Key ingredients:
- 3.5% vitamin C (Ascorbyl Glucoside - stable form)
- Niacinamide for tone evening
- Salicylic acid for texture
- Contains fragrance
Note: Lower concentration means less efficacy but also less irritation risk.
Comparison
vs. L'Oréal Revitalift Vitamin C: Very similar products from sister brands. L'Oréal has higher concentration.
vs. The Ordinary Vitamin C: The Ordinary offers various vitamin C forms at higher concentrations for similar price.
vs. SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic: Incomparable - SkinCeuticals is gold standard but 10x more expensive.
Score Breakdown
Pros & Cons
Pros
Budget-friendly entry to vitamin C
Great under makeup
Low oxidation risk
Gentle for first experience
Cons
3.5% for weaker results
May irritate sensitive skin
Not enough for deep spots
Needs more time
How to Use
Pair With
Alternatives
L'Oréal Revitalift Vitamin C
If you want higher concentration from sister brand
The Ordinary Ascorbic Acid 8%
If you want stronger vitamin C at similar price
Final Verdict
Garnier Vitamin C Booster Serum is decent choice for those who want to try vitamin C without big investment. Don't expect dramatic results, but for basic brightening and antioxidant protection it serves well.
Buy if
- Starting with vitamin C
- Have mildly dull skin
- Looking for affordable product
Skip if
- Need strong pigmentation correction
- Are advanced vitamin C user
- Bothered by fragrance
FAQ
This product already contains niacinamide. No need to add more.
Vitamin C can increase sun sensitivity. SPF is essential for protection and maximizing effect.
