The Paula’s Choice C15 Super Boost Works Wonders on Our Sensitive Skin

We put the Paula’s Choice C15 Super Booster to the test after receiving a complimentary sample from the brand. Keep reading for our full product review. 

While dark spots don't normally fade in record time, a brightening product that adds a glow (and addresses uneven skin tone) sure can help. Here at Byrdie, we've used a range of vitamin C products from budget-friendly to luxe. Paula's Choice's C15 Super Booster is a popular option, given its potency and laundry list of skin-loving ingredients. We put it to a true Byrdie beauty test, using it every day over the course of three weeks. We considered the ingredients and feel of the formulation, as well as the efficacy (we took note of noticeable changes). We also consulted with a skin expert to get her take on the product, too. Keep reading for our honest thoughts.

About the Ingredients: Potent and plentiful

According to double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Jennifer Levine, vitamin C is often used as a skin brightener, addressing hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and damage from the sun. The antioxidant helps protect the skin from free radicals, which can play a part in the development of wrinkles, dull skin tone, and more. In this specific product, you'll find 15% vitamin C—a decently strong concentration—plus vitamin E and ferulic acid, two super ingredients that are often found in vitamin C serums. Vitamin E is a barrier-boosting antioxidant that seals in moisture and soothes the skin, while ferulic acid boosts the benefits of vitamin C while protecting the skin from environmental damage. We'd be remiss not to mention the addition of hyaluronic acid, which is a skincare superstar that can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water within the cells of the skin, helping the skin retain hydration.

About the Formula: Safe for sensitive and acne-prone skin

As we applied the booster to the skin, the first thing we observed is the serum's exceptional hydrating properties. Because of that, and the fact that the additional ingredients are gentle enough, Levine explains that it's ideal for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin types.

How to Apply: Start small

The packaging is about what you'd expect from a vitamin C serum—in a bottle with an accompanying dropper. While it definitely seems similar to other options we've tested, we love that all Paula’s Choice products can be recycled through their partnership with TerraCycle. 

Levine recommends applying vitamin C after your morning cleanse, before moisturizer and SPF. It can work at nighttime, but she says that vitamin C may react with retinol, so it is best to use them at different times during the day. "Vitamin C is technically an acid, so avoiding other acids like alpha and beta hydroxy acids is your best bet," she adds. "Benzoyl peroxide and niacinamide should also be avoided."

The Results: More plump, hydrated skin

We're happy to report that the actual texture of our skin felt smoother to the touch, which is a good indicator that a product is working. Plus, there was no irritation or product-induced breakouts on our very reactive skin—another good sign. What we did notice was plumper, more hydrated skin that looked glowier and glowier the more we incorporated the serum into our routine.

The Value: It's worth it 

From a pricing perspective, at $55, this vitamin C sits right in the middle of the category. Given our love for Paula's Choice and the formulation of these skin-loving ingredients, we think this serum is worth the splurge. Levine agrees, explaining that the quality ingredients make it well worth the money.

Similar Products: You've got options

Maelove The Glow Maker ($28): This budget-friendly serum became an instant cult classic. Made with vitamin C (15 percent L-ascorbic acid), vitamin E, ferulic acid, hyaluronic acid, and a proprietary botanical blend (vitis vinifera, aloe, aurantium dulcis, and magnolia), the hydrating, brightening serum lives up to its hype. 

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic ($166): The award-winning, patented daytime vitamin C serum is clinically proven to reduce combined oxidative damage from free radicals. It also improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, loss of firmness, and adds radiance.