Hey glow-getters! Emma here, ready for a Vitamin C serum showdown. We're putting the Garnier Vitamin C Brightening Serum [affiliate] against the Eclat Skincare Glow Up Vitamin C Serum [affiliate]. Both promise brighter, more even skin, but which one actually works best for your money? Let's get into it!
First up, the Garnier Vitamin C Brightening Serum. You know this one, right? It's a high street hero, known for being easy to find and easy on the wallet. It's all about tackling dullness and dark spots with its mix of Vitamin C, Niacinamide, and Salicylic Acid. Loads of people rave about how much it brightens their skin.
Next, we've got the Eclat Skincare Glow Up Vitamin C Serum. This one boasts a blend of Vitamin C (Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate), Hyaluronic Acid, Ferulic Acid, and Vitamin E. It's marketed for all skin types, which is promising. It targets dullness, uneven skin tone, and those pesky signs of ageing.
The Face-Off: Garnier vs. Eclat
Texture & Application:
The Garnier serum? It's got a lightweight, almost watery texture. It absorbs super quickly, usually in about 30 seconds. It does leave a slightly tacky feel at first, but that disappears fast. I've found the scent quite strong, a citrusy fragrance that might not be for everyone. The Eclat serum, on the other hand, has a slightly thicker, more gel-like feel. It takes a little longer to absorb, maybe a minute or two, but it leaves my skin feeling more hydrated, which I really like. The scent is much milder, almost undetectable.
Results & Effectiveness:
Okay, so I used the Garnier serum in the morning and the Eclat serum at night for two weeks to really put them to the test. With the Garnier serum, I noticed a quicker brightening effect. My skin looked more radiant, especially after a few days of using it consistently. I did get a few minor breakouts along my jawline, which I reckon was probably the salicylic acid. The Eclat serum was a bit of a slow burner. It took about a week to see a real difference in my skin's overall tone and how hydrated it felt. My skin felt plumper and looked healthier, but the brightening effect was more subtle. I also noticed a slight improvement in some very faint sunspots with the Eclat serum, but it was pretty minimal.
Value for Money:
Look, here's the thing: both serums are incredibly affordable. The Garnier Vitamin C Brightening Serum typically goes for around £9-£15, depending on where you buy it (Boots, Superdrug, Amazon). The Eclat Skincare Glow Up Vitamin C Serum is also competitively priced, ranging from £7-£20, mostly available online through Amazon or their website. Given the slightly better immediate brightening effect, Garnier offers great value. However, Eclat's focus on hydration and added antioxidants makes it a really close call.
Who Each Is Best For:
The Garnier Vitamin C Brightening Serum is perfect if you're looking for a quick brightening boost. Especially if you have normal to oily skin and aren't overly sensitive. The salicylic acid can also be a bonus if you're dealing with mild acne. The Eclat Skincare Glow Up Vitamin C Serum is better suited for drier or more sensitive skin types that need extra hydration and antioxidant protection. It's also a good option if you prefer a more subtle brightening effect and don't mind waiting a bit longer for results.
The Verdict
It depends, doesn't it? If you're after an instant radiance boost and you don't have super sensitive skin, the Garnier Vitamin C Brightening Serum is a great shout. However, if you put hydration first, prefer gentler ingredients, and want a more gradual approach to brightening, the Eclat Skincare Glow Up Vitamin C Serum might be a better fit. Both are excellent value for money, so ultimately, it all comes down to your skin type and what you prefer.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Garnier Vitamin C Brightening Serum | Eclat Skincare Glow Up Vitamin C Serum |
|----------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Price | £9 - £15 | £7 - £20 |
| Best For | Oily/Normal skin, immediate brightening | Dry/Sensitive skin, hydration, gradual brightening |
| Key Ingredients/Features | Vitamin C, Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid | Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, Ferulic Acid, Vitamin E |
| Pros | Brightens quickly, affordable, readily available | Hydrating, antioxidant protection, gentle formula |
| Cons | May cause irritation, strong scent, can be drying | Slower results, packaging can be problematic, slight scent. |
| Rating (out of 5) | 4/5 | 4/5 |
---
This comparison is based on thorough research and testing. Content enhanced with AI assistance. Product links may be affiliate links.