If you’re searching for a serum that delivers a brighter, smoother, and more youthful complexion, you’ve likely come across two of Vichy’s best-selling skincare solutions: the LiftActiv B3 Serum and the Vitamin C Brightening Serum. Both are formulated to combat dark spots, fine lines, and dullness—but they do so with different active ingredients and benefits.
Confused about which one suits your skin best? In this article, we’ll explore each serum in detail—from ingredients and texture to pricing and usage—to help you determine which formula aligns with your skincare goals.
Topics Covered:
- What are Vichy LiftActiv B3 and Vitamin C Brightening Serums?
- Key Ingredient Comparison
- Texture and Sensory Experience
- Recommended Usage
- Price Breakdown
- Which Serum is Right for You?
Overview: Vichy LiftActiv B3 vs Vitamin C Brightening Serum
Vichy Laboratoires is a trusted French skincare brand with over 90 years of scientific expertise. Known for using Vichy Volcanic Water and dermatologically-tested formulas, the brand has earned the trust of skincare professionals and consumers worldwide.
Vichy LiftActiv B3 Serum
This is an advanced anti-aging and dark spot corrector. With a blend of powerful dermatological ingredients, the LiftActiv B3 Serum claims to visibly reduce dark spots and wrinkles in just 8 weeks—while promoting a smoother, more even skin tone.
Vichy Vitamin C Brightening Serum
Formulated with 15% pure vitamin C, this brightening serum is designed to revive dull skin, smooth fine lines, and enhance glow. It also contains antioxidants to help protect the skin from environmental stressors. Users often report visible improvement in just 10 days.
While both products work toward skin clarity and health, they target different concerns—one focusing on pigmentation and aging, the other on radiance and environmental defense.
Key Ingredients Comparison
Vichy LiftActiv B3 Serum
This serum includes a 13% blend of derm-grade actives, designed to fight pigmentation and signs of aging:
- Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Visibly reduces dark spots and evens skin tone.
- Glycolic Acid (AHA): Gently exfoliates dead skin cells, revealing brighter skin.
- TXA (Tranexamic Acid): A derivative of amino acid known to target skin discoloration.
- Peptides: Help boost collagen and improve skin elasticity.
It also features peeling actives to exfoliate the skin surface, with anti-inflammatory effects that minimize new dark spot formation at the root. This serum is fragrance-free, allergy-tested, dermatologist-tested, and suitable for all skin tones and types.
Vichy LiftActiv Vitamin C Brightening Serum
This serum is packed with antioxidants and patented actives aimed at brightening and protecting the skin:
- 15% Pure L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C): The most researched form of vitamin C, helps brighten skin, even tone, and reduce visible signs of aging.
- Vitamin E: A powerful antioxidant that enhances the efficacy of Vitamin C and shields the skin from free radicals.
- Pine Polyphenols: Provide additional broad-spectrum antioxidant protection against pollution and environmental stress.
This formulation is paraben-free, fragrance-free, and highly compatible with sensitive skin.
Texture & Absorption
LiftActiv B3 Serum
This serum has a lightweight, watery, and oil-free texture. It absorbs quickly without leaving any sticky or greasy residue. Many users describe it as silky-smooth, making the skin feel soft and hydrated immediately after application. As a fragrance-free formula, it’s ideal for those sensitive to scents.
Vitamin C Brightening Serum
This serum has a very fluid, almost toner-like consistency. It’s extremely lightweight and absorbs rapidly, delivering a brightening boost to all skin types. While the runny texture can lead to faster oxidation if not handled properly, it provides an instant glow and layers well under moisturizers and SPF.
How to Use: LiftActiv B3 vs Vitamin C Brightening Serum
Vichy LiftActiv B3 Serum
This serum is designed to reduce dark spots, fine lines, and uneven tone—making it a great anti-aging solution.
- When to Use: Morning and evening, after cleansing.
- How to Apply: Dispense a few drops using the squeeze applicator and apply evenly over the face and neck.
- Follow Up: Use a moisturizer and always apply SPF in the morning for added protection.
This serum is gentle enough for twice-daily use and suitable for all skin tones, thanks to its non-irritating, fragrance-free formula.
Vichy Vitamin C Brightening Serum
A perfect pick for boosting radiance and defending the skin against oxidative stress.
- When to Use: Apply every morning after cleansing and before other serums.
- How to Apply: Squeeze 3–5 drops from the precision applicator and smooth over the face and neck.
- Follow Up: Finish with your usual moisturizer and SPF.
Despite its 15% Vitamin C concentration, it is well-tolerated by sensitive skin, thanks to the inclusion of Vitamin E and Pine Polyphenols.
Price Comparison
| Product | Size | Approximate Price |
| LiftActiv B3 Serum | 20 ml | $45 |
| Vitamin C Brightening Serum | 20 ml | $35 |
The LiftActiv B3 Serum is slightly more expensive, likely due to its more complex ingredient profile, including peptides and tranexamic acid. However, price does not necessarily equal performance—each serum offers unique benefits depending on your skin’s needs.
Which Vichy Serum Should You Choose?
Here’s a simple breakdown:
Choose LiftActiv B3 Serum if:
- You want to correct dark spots and pigmentation
- You’re targeting wrinkles and skin aging
- You prefer a formula suitable for twice-daily use
Choose Vitamin C Brightening Serum if:
- Your focus is on radiance and glow
- You want antioxidant protection from pollution and UV damage
- You need a lightweight serum for morning routines
Final Verdict: Targeted Correction or Radiance Boost?
Both the Vichy LiftActiv B3 Serum and Vichy Vitamin C Brightening Serum are excellent options, each targeting specific skin concerns.
- The LiftActiv B3 Serum is ideal for those dealing with hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and fine lines, offering powerful corrective action.
- The Vitamin C Brightening Serum is perfect if your goal is to brighten dull skin, enhance glow, and protect your skin from daily environmental stressors.
Ultimately, the best serum for you will depend on your skin type, concerns, and desired results. Whichever you choose, Vichy’s dermatologist-developed formulas ensure safe, effective skincare tailored to your needs.