Vitamin C is an essential nutrient for overall health and plays a role in many vital functions. Yet, unlike animals, our bodies cannot produce it on its own.
The vitamin was first manufactured as a supplement in 1933, twenty-one years after its discovery. Today, many options are available, and finding the best vitamin C for adults can be daunting.
This guide explores eight of the leading vitamin C supplements using specific criteria, such as manufacturing standards, provider repetition, customer reviews, and price.
Read on to discover your optimal vitamin C supplement.
Best vitamin C supplement: a shortlist
- Performance Lab — overall best vitamin C supplement
- Ancient Nutrition — best vitamin C supplement with probiotic
- Cymbiotika — best liposomal vitamin C
- Goop — best vitamin C to take for skin health
- New Chapter — best natural vitamin C supplement
- Life Extension — best vitamin C supplement for optimal absorption
- Nature Made — best chewable vitamin C supplement
- Nutricost — best vitamin C supplement powder
- NOW — best high strength vitamin C supplement
How we compiled our list of the best vitamin C supplements
Before choosing any supplement, vitamin C included, it’s always a good idea to do some research into the manufacturing company, its production processes, and several other key factors. Checking these aspects ensures that the supplement you get is quality and meets your needs.
| Manufacturing standards | Customer reviews | Price | Provider reputation |
| Third-party and GMP certifications | Positive reviews from customers | $8.13–62.00 | Established and reputable companies |
- Manufacturing standards. We chose products that undergo third-party testing and are produced in facilities that meet the highest standards certifications (GMP).
- Customer reviews. We read through many customer reviews, looking for authentic experiences from people who had taken the vitamin C supplements.
- Price. We looked for products that provided cost-effective vitamin C without compromising on quality.
- Provider reputation. We chose manufacturers known for having quality and well-researched ingredients and products.
Best vitamin C supplement: an overview
Following are our top eight choices for the best vitamin C supplements according to the criteria we graded them on.
We discuss them in detail so you get a comprehensive understanding of the pros and cons of each supplement.
We hope you find this guide helpful in your journey to finding the best vitamin C supplement.
1. Performance Lab — best overall vitamin C supplement
This Performance Lab product stands out to us as our top choice for the best vitamin C supplement due to the brand’s commitment to transparency and overall quality.
According to the brand, this supplement is formulated to provide enhanced energy, support exercise recovery and the immune system by containing 250 mg of vitamin C in patented NutriGenesis® form. The brand claims that the inclusion of citrus bioflavonoids further amplifies its biological impact, ensuring you get the most out of every dose.
What we also appreciate about this supplement is that it is third-party tested. However, it is worth noting that the product does not have any customer reviews on their website.
Performance Lab suggests taking two capsules in the morning with or without food. Each bottle contains 60 capsules, providing a one-month supply for $37.00.
2. Ancient Nutrition — best vitamin C supplement with probiotic
Ancient Nutrition’s Vitamin C Probiotic stood out to us as a reliable choice for supporting the immune system and promoting gut health.
We love that each serving provides 900 mg of vitamin C in a gold-standard lipid metabolite form, helping ensure your body gets the best absorption opportunity. In addition, each capsule also contains 2 billion CFU (at the time of manufacture) of Bacillus subtilis, a probiotic strain known for thriving in harsh environments like the gut.
This supplement is vegan-friendly and made without dairy, gluten, or nuts, making it suitable for a diverse range of people.
Ancient Grains suggests a convenient dosage of two capsules per day, taken with water or your favorite beverage.
Each bottle contains 60 capsules, which is a month’s supply, and costs $24.95. Customers on the Ancient Grains website rate this product with 4.9 out of five stars.
3. Cymbiotika — best liposomal vitamin C supplement
Cymbiotica’s Liposomal Vitamin C stood out to us as the best overall vitamin C supplement for its potent antioxidant support and holistic beauty benefits while adhering to the best manufacturing practices.
The liposomal delivery technology sets it apart by ensuring the vitamins are delivered where you need them most and are not destroyed in the digestive process.
This vegan-friendly supplement offers you the full potential of vitamin C by containing both forms: ascorbic acid and sodium ascorbate. It also has the added benefits of biotin, which is claimed to support optimal collagen formation, healthy aging, and immune function.
Each serving contains 1,000 mg of non–GMO vitamin C and comes in a convenient pouch you simply squeeze into your mouth or mix into a favorite drink. Cymbiotica suggests taking it once a day in between meals.
Customers on the Cymbiotic website rate this product with 5 out of five stars.
A one-time purchase of 30 pouches, a month’s supply, is $62.
2. Goop — best vitamin C to take for skin health
We had to include GoopGlow’s Morning Super Powder in our top best vitamin C supplement choices for its refreshing skin nourishment benefits.
Not only does this supplement contain 500 mg of ascorbic acid vitamin C, but it's also packed with vitamin E, grape-seed proanthocyanidins, and CoQ10. This super powder is claimed to help your skin combat the effects of free radicals from sun exposure and pollution.
We also love the convenience of the single-dose packets that make it perfect for on-the-go use. With a flavor reminiscent of oranges and lemon verbena, simply mix one packet with eight ounces of room-temperature water as part of your morning routine.
You can take this supplement confidently, knowing it was manufactured in a GMP-certified facility that follows FDA regulations.
A one month’s supply of 30 packets costs $60 and Amazon customers rate this product with 4.1 stars out of five.
4. New Chapter — best natural vitamin C supplement
New Chapter’s Immune Defence Vitamin C Gummies stood out to us as a great option for individuals looking for quality nutrition in a tasty and easy-to-take form without all the sugar.
These gummies not only provide 125 mg of ascorbic acid, vitamin C from the acerola cherry, but also contain 5.5 mg of zinc, another immune-boosting supplement.
New Chapter’s commitment to both health and taste sets these gummies apart. The manufacturer claims this supplement contains 40% less sugar than other leading gummy brands and is sweetened with certified organic Blue Agave inulin fiber rather than sugar.
Being non-GMO, vegan, and gluten-free, these gummies cater to several dietary preferences.
The manufacturer suggests taking two gummies per day at any time, even on an empty stomach.
Customers on the New Chapter website rate this product with 4.9 stars out of five.
A month’s supply costs $18, making this an affordable vitamin C option.
5. Life Extension — best vitamin C supplement for optimal absorption
Life Extension’s Vitamin C 24-hour Liposomal Hydrogel™ Formula stood out to us as one of the best vitamin C tablets with its unique formula, which is claimed to provide optimal absorption and long-lasting benefits.
The brand claims this supplement has seven times greater absorption than standard vitamin C and remains in the system for 24 hours. The fenugreek hydrogel is said to protect the 350 mg of vitamin C per dose, ensuring that your body can properly absorb the benefits.
Life Extension caters to a wide range of dietary needs or preferences by being gluten-free, non-GMO, and vegetarian.
They recommend taking one tablet daily, and each $25.50 bottle contains 60 tablets, giving you two months’ worth of supplements.
Customers on the Life Extension’s website rate this supplement with 4.8 out of five stars.
6. Nature Made — best chewable vitamin C supplement
We found Nature Made Vitamin C Gummies to be a delightful way to incorporate more vitamin C for immune system support, especially if you have trouble swallowing tablets.
With 250 mg of vitamin C per serving, these gummies are claimed to offer antioxidant protection and aid in collagen production, which is essential for healthy skin and a bolstered immune system.
These gummies are set apart for their delicious tangerine flavor, which makes taking the supplement something you can look forward to each day. We love that they are free from high fructose corn syrup, artificial flavors, synthetic dyes, and artificial sweeteners, giving you a clean and wholesome supplement.
Since 1971, Nature Made has been providing trusted health products manufactured under strict manufacturing processes and third-party testing to guarantee high-quality supplements.
A bottle of 80 gummies costs $11.69 and gives you a little over a month’s worth of servings.
Customers on the Nature Made website rate this supplement with 4.3 out of five stars.
7. Nutricost — best vitamin C supplement powder
Nutricost Vitamin C Ascorbic Acid stood out to us as a top choice for people looking for a large dose and convenient source of vitamin C.
One scoop of unflavored Nutricost Vitamin C provides 1,000 mg of ascorbic acid, which easily dissolves in water.
We appreciate this product's simplicity, purity, and assured quality. Its ingredients are non-GMO, vegetarian, and free from soy and gluten, making it acceptable for a wide variety of people.
Nutricost vitamin C supplement includes a scoop for convenient and accurate dosing that you can easily incorporate into your daily routine.
The manufacturer suggests mixing one scoop with six to ten ounces of water each day.
This product is affordable at $15.26 per package for 454 servings.
Amazon customers rate this product with 4.7 out of five stars.
8. NOW — best high strength vitamin C supplement
NOW C-1000 is another high-strength vitamin C choice that comes in capsule form for those who prefer to take capsules.
These 1,000 mg of vitamin C vegan capsules are claimed to support a healthy immune system as well as skin and bone health.
We also appreciate the inclusion of 100 mg of bioflavonoids, which adds additional antioxidant support for overall health.
NOW boasts several certifications, including non-GMO and kosher ingredients, as well as being free of soy, dairy, egg, sugar, nuts, and gluten to meet many dietary preference needs.
The supplement is manufactured in a GMP-certified facility, so you can trust the quality and safety of your vitamin C.
NOW suggests taking one capsule daily. Each bottle costs $8.13 and contains 100 capsules, which should last a little over three months
Amazon customers rate this supplement with 4.8 out of five stars.
Comparing the best vitamin C supplements
| Brand | Cost | Cost per serving | Number of servings | Vit C mg per serving | Third-party tested | Vegan-friendly | Customer rating out of 5 stars* |
| Performance Lab | $37.00 | $1.23 | 30 | 250 mg | Yes | Yes | N/A |
| Ancient Nutrition | $24.95 | $0.83 | 30 | 900 mg | No info | Yes | 4.9 stars |
| Cymbiotica | $62.00 | $2.06 | 30 | 1000 mg | No info | Yes | 5 stars |
| Goop | $60.00 | $2.00 | 30 | 500 mg | No info | Yes | 4.1 stars |
| New Chapter | $18.00 | $0.60 | 30 | 125 mg | Yes | Yes | 4.9 stars |
| Life Extension | $25.50 | $0.43 | 60 | 350 mg | Yes | Yes | 4.8 stars |
| Nature Made | $11.69 | $0.29 | 40 | 250 mg | Yes | No | 4.3 stars |
| Nutricost | $15.26 | $0.03 | 454 | 1000 mg | Yes | No | 4.7 stars |
| NOW | $8.13 | $0.08 | 100 | 1000 mg | Yes | Yes | 4.8 stars |
*— customer ratings come from the product page.
What is Vitamin C?
Vitamin C, known in the scientific community as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin needed for many important functions and is essential for overall health.
It’s naturally found in many fruits and vegetables and helps support immune function, skin health, and reduces the risk of several chronic diseases.
Your body can’t make this vitamin on its own, so it’s important to get enough of it through the foods you eat and any needed additional supplementation.
People who are at risk of having low vitamin C include:
- Individuals who smoke.
- People who consume excessive amounts of alcohol.
- Those who don’t eat a variety of foods, especially fruits and vegetables.
-
People with digestive conditions that cause poor nutrition absorption.
Health benefits of vitamin C supplements
Read on to learn several ways vitamin C can benefit your overall health.
Boosting the immune system
Your immune system is made up of a collection of cells and organs that work together to help fight off infection and sickness.
Vitamin C bolsters the immune system by supporting the production and function of white blood cells, some of the primary cells for fighting infection.
While experts have more to learn about the exact ways vitamin C assists, research shows that many cells in the immune system store up vitamin C in large amounts, demonstrating its importance for defending against infection.
Antioxidant properties and role in fighting free radicals
Vitamin C is a strong antioxidant that helps protect cells against free radical damage. Free radicals are unstable atoms that can cause damage to your cells. Over time, enough damage can lead to chronic illnesses, inflammation, and aging.
Researchers have discovered that vitamin C plays a role in protecting the cells from damage by neutralizing free radicals.
Supporting collagen production for skin health
Vitamin C is essential for healthy and glowing skin and can also aid in managing acne, primarily due to its important role in producing collagen. Collagen is a protein that provides structure and elasticity to the skin.
An example of vitamin C’s importance is scurvy, a condition characterized by gum disease, brittle bones, and skin wounds that used to be seen in sailors who were away at sea for longer periods of time.
The discovery that vitamin C deficiency caused scurvy was significant and led to the cure of eating citrus fruits.
Vitamin C is also beneficial in wound healing as it can accelerate the repair process of damaged skin by enhancing new tissue growth.
Potential role in reducing the risk of chronic diseases
Vitamin C’s role in potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases ties into its ability to protect the body from free radicals which reduces inflammation and oxidative stress. Both of which are key factors in the development of chronic diseases.
Studies suggest that vitamin C may help lower the risk of cardiovascular disease by increasing blood flow through vasodilation (widening of blood vessels).
While the research is still mixed, several studies suggest that taking vitamin C supplements may help reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration and cataracts, two of the main conditions that cause blindness.
Natural sources of vitamin C
The best way to get your vitamin C is through your diet. Fruits and vegetables are great sources of vitamin C, with citrus fruits at the top of the list.
While vitamin C is not naturally found in grains, some cereals are fortified with it, meaning the manufacturer adds vitamin C to enhance the nutritional value.
Here is a list of the top ten natural sources of vitamin C in order from highest to lowest:
- Red peppers
- Orange juice
- Oranges
- Grapefruit juice
- Kiwis
- Green peppers
- Broccoli
-
Brussels sprouts
- Grapefruit
Potential side effects and precautions when taking vitamin C
Doctors consider vitamin C to be safe. Generally, it does not cause side effects.
Some digestive complaints typically occur due to taking high doses of vitamin C. Symptoms may include:
- Diarrhea.
- Nausea.
-
Stomach cramps.
People taking certain medications, such as chemotherapy, radiation, or statins, should talk with their doctor before taking vitamin C because there can be interactions.
In general, it’s best to talk with your doctor before taking any new supplements, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking medications.
How to incorporate vitamin C supplements into your routine
Incorporating vitamin C into your routine can be simple. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020-2025 suggest trying to meet most of your nutritional needs through diet.
The Institute of Medicine recommends that males over the age of 19 get 90 mg of vitamin C each day, and females get 75 mg.
If you smoke, you need an additional 35 mg of vitamin C each day, and people with particular circumstances such as pregnancy or lactation may need more vitamin C.
Eat several types of fruits and vegetables throughout the day to get vitamin C. Certain cooking methods, such as boiling, can decrease the vitamin C content, so try steaming your vegetables instead.
There’s no specific way you need to take your vitamin C supplement. Choose a time of day that works best for you and that you can be consistent with. If the vitamin tends to upset your stomach, try taking it with food rather than on an empty stomach.
Talk with your primary medical provider or registered dietitian for personalized advice on the best amount of vitamin C for you.
Best vitamin C supplement — conclusion
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient your body needs to function properly. It is especially important for supporting your immune system and skin health and possibly reducing your risk of chronic illnesses such as heart disease.
With so many vitamin C supplements available, it can be difficult to decide what is the best vitamin C supplement.
When looking for one, important considerations include the manufacturing process, the company's ingredients, third-party testing, and making sure the supplement fits your dietary preferences or needs.
Vitamin C doesn’t typically cause side effects, but if you take a large dose, you may feel some digestive discomfort or have diarrhea.
Talk with your doctor if you have further questions about taking vitamin C and if it’s right for you.
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FAQ
What is the best form of vitamin C to take?
The best form of vitamin C is in fruits and vegetables. However, if you want to increase your vitamin C intake further, you can take a supplement. It typically contains ascorbic acid, but some may have a different form or come in slow-release or liposomal form. There is no one best form. Choose a supplement that comes in a form that’s easiest for you to take.
Which brand is best for vitamin C tablets?
Many brands offer excellent vitamin C tablets. Some brands offer additional ingredients such as probiotics, zinc, or CoQ10. Pick the supplement that best fits your needs.
Is it OK to take vitamin C pills every day?
It’s typically okay to take vitamin C pills daily, but it’s always best to check with your primary healthcare provider before starting a new supplement. Some medications or health conditions may conflict with vitamin C.
Are vitamin C supplements effective?
Yes. Research has shown that vitamin C supplements have been effective in helping boost the immune system, support skin health, and have the potential to reduce the risk of chronic disease. However, some vitamin C supplements have stronger doses than others and are derived from different ingredients. If you have questions about a vitamin C supplement, talk with your doctor for more personalized advice.
4 resources
- Cureus The Role of Vitamin C in Human Immunity and Its Treatment Potential Against COVID-19: A Review Article.
- National Institutes of Health Vitamin C Fact Sheet for Health Professionals.
- Nutrients Two Faces of Vitamin C—Antioxidative and Pro-Oxidative Agent.
- Nutrients The Roles of Vitamin C in Skin Health.
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