Okay, beauty besties, let's talk Vitamin C! Living in the UK, with its grey skies and central heating dryness, means I'm always searching for that magical product to brighten my skin and give me a healthy glow. So, I decided to put three popular contenders to the test: the Eclat Skincare Glow Up Vitamin C Serum, the Garnier Vitamin C Brightening Serum, and the LAIKOU Sakura Skincare Set (yep, specifically, the serum from that set). Let's get into it!
Individual Mini-Reviews:
* Eclat Skincare Glow Up Vitamin C Serum (£6.79): This serum promises brightening and hydration at a crazy affordable price. It's vegan and cruelty-free, which is a huge win! But the reviews? They're all over the shop. Honestly, I was a bit sceptical. [affiliate link to Eclat Skincare]
* Garnier Vitamin C Brightening Serum (£9.32): A drugstore staple, right? Garnier's offering boasts Vitamin C, Niacinamide, and Salicylic Acid, aiming to tackle dark spots and improve skin texture. Plus, it's super easy to find in Boots and Superdrug. Can't beat that! [affiliate link to Garnier Vitamin C serum]
LAIKOU Sakura Skincare Set (£20.97): This isn't just* a serum, it's a whole routine! The Sakura extract is supposed to be hydrating and brightening. I focused on the serum from the set for this comparison. Was it worth it? We'll see! [affiliate link to LAIKOU Sakura set]
Direct Comparison:
Texture & Application: The Eclat serum has a slightly watery texture and absorbs REALLY quickly – almost too* quickly, leaving my skin feeling a tad tight. Not ideal. The Garnier serum is a bit thicker and feels more hydrating when you put it on, though it takes a little longer to sink in. The LAIKOU serum has a medium consistency and a noticeable floral scent. I used the Eclat serum in the morning and the Garnier serum at night for two weeks. The LAIKOU serum was used in the mornings.
Results & Effectiveness: After two weeks, I noticed a subtle brightening effect with both* the Eclat and Garnier serums. However, the Garnier serum seemed to do a better job at evening out my skin tone. The LAIKOU serum provided good hydration, but the brightening effect wasn't as noticeable as the other two. I didn't experience any irritation with the Garnier serum, which is always a relief! But the Eclat serum? It caused a few tiny breakouts along my jawline. Not cute. The LAIKOU serum was also gentle on my skin, thankfully.
* Value for Money: The Eclat serum is definitely the most budget-friendly. No question. But, considering the Garnier serum's effectiveness and how easy it is to get your hands on (you can literally grab it during your weekly shop!), it offers AMAZING value. The LAIKOU set is a bigger investment upfront, but you're getting a whole routine, not just a serum. Whether that's good value or not depends on if you want the whole shebang.
* Who Each Is Best For: The Eclat serum is best for those on a super tight budget who aren't sensitive to Vitamin C and want a quick boost of brightness. The Garnier serum is ideal for those seeking an affordable, readily available serum that addresses dullness and uneven skin tone, especially if you're prone to breakouts. The LAIKOU set is best for those who want a complete skincare routine focused on hydration and a gentle brightening effect, and who enjoy floral scents. It's not for me, but maybe it's for you!
Verdict:
It totally depends! For pure brightening power and overall value, I'd lean towards the Garnier Vitamin C Brightening Serum. It's effective, affordable, and you can find it everywhere. However, if you're looking for the cheapest option and don't have sensitive skin, the Eclat Skincare Glow Up Vitamin C Serum is a decent choice. If you're after a full skincare routine and enjoy floral scents, the LAIKOU Sakura Skincare Set could be worth exploring, but just be aware that the serum's brightening effect is less pronounced.
Quick Comparison Table:
| Feature | Eclat Skincare Glow Up Vitamin C Serum | Garnier Vitamin C Brightening Serum | LAIKOU Sakura Skincare Set (Serum) |
| ------------------- | --------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------ | ------------------------------------ |
| Price | £6.79 | £9.32 | £20.97 (for the whole set) |
| Best For | Budget-conscious, not sensitive skin | Dullness, uneven skin tone | Hydration, gentle brightening |
| Key Ingredients/Features | Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid | Vitamin C, Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid | Sakura Extract, Hyaluronic Acid |
| Pros | Affordable, vegan, absorbs quickly | Brightens, improves texture, widely available | Hydrating, pleasant scent (for some) |
| Cons | Can be irritating, effectiveness varies | May cause irritation, strong fragrance | Scent can be overpowering, effectiveness varies |
| Rating (out of 5) | 3.5 | 4 | 3.75 |