This $30 Drugstore Serum Brightens, Hydrates, and Gives Your Skin a Major Glow Up

As someone with acne-prone skin, I can’t imagine my skin-care routine without vitamin C.  One, it helps to protect my skin from free radical damage. And two, it’s one of the few derm-approved ingredients that doesn’t break me out and helps fade my hyperpigmentation scars. But as transformative as this ingredient is for my beauty regimen, it’s been hard to find a solution that is both budget-friendly and effective. That is, until I discovered Olay Vitamin C + Peptide 24 Serum ($30).

TIP

With the Well+Good SHOP, you can now add products to your cart right from this article page. Just click on the product below and more details will pop up in a new window. Hit “add to cart” and voila! That’s it! As you read more SHOP articles, you can keep adding products to your cart and check out when you’re ready (look for the cart icon on the right side of your screen).

Olay Vitamin C + Peptide 24 Serum — $30.00

Though I’ve been testing the serum out for a little less than three weeks, it’s been a total game changer in balancing out my skin’s complexion. A huge part of that has to do with the serum’s stacked formula, which includes a potent mix of vitamin C (for brightness), vitamin B3 (for hydration), and lactic acid (for increased cell turnover). Additionally, it contains peptides, which are amino acids that help to stimulate collagen production so that your skin has a plumper, smoother, and firmer appearance.

The serum dropped last year along with the rest of Olay’s new Vitamin C + Peptide 24 collection which also includes a moisturizer, an eye cream, and a cleanser if you want to try a new routine in one fell swoop. 

Among the first things I noticed was the serum’s texture. While most serums are super slick and  greasy in nature, this one felt more like a watered down moisturizer. Don’t get me wrong, it’s still thin and easily penetrates your skin. But like a good water-based moisturizer, it leaves your skin dewy and supple afterward, rather than greasy. Also, the formula is pretty lightweight, so you don’t have to worry about it clogging your pores.

Over the last few weeks, I’ve used the serum at night followed by my moisturizer. I was really hoping to see some improvement around my cheeks where I have a few dark spots—and that’s exactly what I got. Granted, the improvement was pretty subtle (so far), but a win is still a win in my book. Plus, it didn’t cause a breakout or irritate my skin. Just know that the formula has a fairly mild citrus smell, which is something to keep in mind if you have sensitive skin or are prone to irritation.

All in all, the formula is super moisturizing, and gives your skin a radiant glow. So, if you’re looking to introduce vitamin C intro your skin-care regimen without breaking the bank and , this is one to add to cart.

Want to be the first to hear about the latest (and greatest) SHOP product drops, custom collections, discounts, and more? Sign up to have the intel delivered straight to your inbox.