For those times you commit the cardinal sin of sleeping in makeup or a long flight leaves skin jetlagged, reaching for the closest face mask might be second nature. But here’s the catch: most hydrating masks aren’t solving the biggest problem of your stressed, irritated skin. What you really need is a dose of free-radical fighting and brightening vitamin C for a wake-me-up glow. Vitamin C masks not only provide much-needed protection against environmental stressors but work to give your skin an instant boost of radiance and moisture.
We’ve put together a list of the best vitamin C face masks that are guaranteed to help you achieve luminous skin and diminish blemishes.
Tatcha Violet-C Radiance Mask
A favorite of beauty enthusiasts everywhere, this mask replaces dullness and blemishes with a healthy glow. In addition to an impressive dose of 20% vitamin C, it features 10% fruit-derived alpha-hydroxy acids to encourage gradual skin renewal and slough off dead cells that build up on the surface. As per the instant reward, Tatcha Violet-C Radiance Mask will give you that luminosity boost and a soft canvas ready to absorb the full benefits of your skincare products. And don’t worry about it being harsh—the formula is enhanced with Tatcha’s signature complex (HADASEI-3™), which consists of soothing and calming ingredients like green tea, rice, and algae.
- Price: $70
- Size: 50 ml / 1.7 oz
- We like: Suitable for sensitive skin, non-comedogenic
- We don’t like: The expensive price tag
Gleamin Vitamin C Clay Mask
This Amazon favorite gets its vitamin C from natural sources, including turmeric, lime, and kakadu plump. It promises to detoxify the skin and fade discoloration in as little as 28 days with thrice-weekly use. All you have to do is apply a thick layer on clean skin (with the included brush) and allow it to sit for 10 minutes before rinsing off with lukewarm water. Then you can either follow up with your regular skincare or simply bask in the brilliant radiance it provides.
- Price: $42
- Size: 60 ml / 2.1 oz
- We like: It’s made with natural ingredients and has a gentle formula that works on all types of skin
- We don’t like: It doesn’t contain pure vitamin C
Origins Ginzing Glow-Boosting Mask
This Amazon favorite gets its vitamin C from natural sources, including turmeric, lime, and kakadu plump. It promises to detoxify the skin and fade discoloration in as little as 28 days with thrice-weekly use. All you have to do is apply a thick layer on clean skin (with the included brush) and allow it to sit for 10 minutes before rinsing off with lukewarm water. Then you can either follow up with your regular skincare or simply bask in the brilliant radiance it provides.
- Price: $37
- Size: 75 ml / 2.5 oz
- We like: It’s a leave-on mask, has an uplifting citrus scent, and it’s packaged in a recyclable jar
- We dislike: It contains artificial dyes
Mediheal Vita Lightbeam Essential Mask
This vitamin C sheet mask provides a more convenient and mess-free application while allowing for better absorption of active ingredients. Once you put it on, it infuses the skin with multiple natural sources of vitamin C, such as soybean and pea extracts, which give an immediate glowing boost. The mask is also drenched in a juicy concentration of amino acids and nourishing oils to moisturize and soften your skin.
- Price: $5.60 / $14
- Size: 4 pieces / 10 pieces
- We like: Easy to use
- We dislike: Produces environmental waste
Obagi Professional-C Microdermabrasion Polish + Mask
If you’ve ever been to a dermatologist or a med-spa, chances are they’ve recommended something from Obagi. Their clinical strength products are great for at-home care, and with 30% L-ascorbic acid, this is the highest-strength vitamin C mask on the list. It’s a great weekly exfoliator with polishing microdermabrasion-type effects that can prolong the glow from your spa treatments. P.S: It’s super concentrated, so use it sparingly and avoid more delicate areas around the eye.
- Price: $84
- Size: 80 ml / 2.8 oz
- We like: It’s highly concentrated in vitamin C
- We dislike: Difficult to get out of the jar and challenging to apply
The Body Shop Vitamin C Glow Sheet Mask
Always on the move? This vitamin C sheet mask is perfect for throwing in your bag to get that on-the-go glow wherever you go. With vitamin C and camu-camu (naturally rich in vitamin C), it’s great at keeping your face nice and bright. It doesn’t hold back on hydration either, boasting the power duo of hyaluronic acid and aloe vera to quench parched skin and reveal a beautifully moisturized complexion. Sometimes sheet masks can feel wasteful and unsustainable, but not to worry, The Body Shop made these from biodegradable materials, and they’re also vegan and organic.
- Price: $7.41
- Size: 1 piece
- We like: It’s safe for sensitive skin, biodegradable, and rich in vitamin C
- We dislike: Contains drying alcohol and synthetic perfume
Allies of Skin PSA Light Up Flash Brightening Mask
Allies of Skin made the best vitamin C mask for fast-acting results—fans love the rapid tingling sensation as it gets to work. An industry favorite, the included 11% L-ascorbic acid is a game-changer for dull skin, while the addition of antioxidants like vitamin E and grapeseed oil nourishes and hydrates. Though this potent formula may intimidate people with easily reactive skin, it’s actually non-irritating and gentle enough for everyone. Extra credit goes to the airtight container, which preserves the potent ingredients until you reach the last drop.
- Price: $49.36
- Size: 50 ml / 1.7 oz
- We like: Rich in pure vitamin C, good for all skin types
- We dislike: Nothing, really
Peter Thomas Roth Pumpkin Enzyme Mask
Combining manual, chemical, and enzymatic exfoliation, you may be washing this off to find a whole new face. Now, if you’re already screaming at the words manual exfoliation, don’t fear; this has little in common with the dreaded St.Ives scrub. The aluminum oxide crystals are the same used for dermabrasion, specifically made to be used on the face and polish away uneven texture. Pumpkin enzymes, vitamin C, and AHA acids take care of the rest, removing dullness for more clarified skin.
- Price: $60
- Size: 150 ml / 5 oz
- We like: Pairs vitamin C with triple exfoliation methods
- We dislike: Too harsh for reactive skin
Dr. Jart+ Cryo Rubber Mask
Few things are more refreshing and fun than using Dr. Jart+ Cryo Rubber Mask. The fact that you apply an ampule and cover it with a rubber mask makes you feel as though you’re at the spa. Specifically, locking in vitamin C and niacinamide with a patented cooling “cryo rubber” is what makes this brightening face mask a more professional-style treatment.
- Price: $15
- Size: 1 piece
- We like: Mild and soothing
- We dislike: Requires 40 minutes for proper absorption
The takeaway
Everyone loves the convenience of a face mask, and while vitamin C serums have long been an HG for beauty routines, it’s worth trying this active in a new form. Whether you’re traveling and need a TSA-friendly product or your skin is due for some pampering, an extra shot of antioxidant-rich brightening never hurts.
