We test the best vitamin C skincare products to help as the cold creeps in

AS the weather turns and we crank up the central heating, dry skin is inevitable.

I’ve been trying some brightening vitamin C skincare to help add some life back into my complexion . . . 

Budget

Garnier SkinActive Vitamin C 2in1 Brightening Serum Cream SPF 25, (£9.99 for 50ml, ): The texture of this hybrid moisturiser is thick enough to make the dry areas on my combination skin feel hydrated, yet it doesn’t cause an oil slick on my forehead and nose.

The addition of SPF 25 is great, but I wish Garnier had included at least factor 30 as dermatologists recommend.

While the percentage of vitamin C is not listed, I have noticed my skin looking radiant, which could be down to the pearlescent shimmer in the cream.

Mid range

The Body Shop Vitamin C Glow Revealing Serum (£26 for 30ml, ): I was worried this serum would be too oily, but it absorbs quickly.

As well as pure Vitamin C (the most effective form), it contains bakuchiol, which is often labelled as a natural alternative to Vitamin A supplement retinol.

While that might be a stretch, it does help accelerate skin cell turnover, and alongside the Vitamin C it reduced the uneven texture that had crept on to my cheeks over the summer.

It has also helped deal with the redness around my nose, so my skin looks much brighter.

In a survey, 86 per cent of testers said their skin’s natural glow improved after eight weeks.

Luxury

Pai Skincare C-2 Believe Vitamin C Brightening Moisturiser (£49 for 50ml, ): This is a seriously hard-working moisturiser. Vitamin C to brighten the skin, hyaluronic acid and glycerin to hydrate, and ceramide-boosting bilberry extract make it the perfect all-rounder for combatting a dull complexion.

It’s suitable for all skin types, even sensitive ones. But the new-gen Vitamin C has to be converted by the skin into pure Vitamin C, so results will take longer than a product that contains ascorbic acid.

A great option if you have the patience, but I like something with immediate results.

Pick of the week

Launched this week, Sculpted by Aimee Satin Silk Longwear Foundation, £27, is lightweight yet long-lasting and leaves a satin finish.

It also contains skin-loving ingredients such as hyaluronic acid. Unsure of your shade?

Find your perfect match in one of the 100 branches of Boots in UK and Ireland where it is sold.