Can Retinol and Vitamin C be used together?
In the complex world of skincare, there are a few ingredients that really stand out. Vitamin C and Retinol are two powerful ingredients that really live up to their reputations and bring undeniable results. However, the question on our mind is what happens if you bring these two heavyweights together? Will this bring about the best skin you have ever experienced? Or will it lead to the greatest showdown of all time, resulting in a skin disaster?
That is exactly what we want to find out in today’s blog post. Some skincare enthusiasts might know how these powerhouses work on the skin and how to incorporate them into your daily routine most effectively. So, feel free to skip to the next section. However, if you are new to skincare, stay tuned as I will briefly explain the benefits of each ingredient for your skin.
What are the benefits of Vitamin C?
Vitamin C is a form of ascorbic acid that is known for its antioxidant properties and collagen-boosting effects. It is often included in various skincare formulas, with serums and moisturizers usually being the first choice. The benefits of this powerhouse don’t end there, here are some more examples.
Strengthens the function of the natural skin barrier
As I mentioned earlier, vitamin C is rich in antioxidants that protect the skin from oxidative stress. This stress is caused by free radicals such as: B. pollution, UV rays, and other environmental aggressors. Thanks to the antioxidant properties of vitamin C, the skin’s natural barrier remains strong and can function properly.
Reduces skin redness
Vitamin C also has anti-inflammatory properties, which means it fights inflammation or redness in the skin and prevents further flare-ups.
Helps brighten the complexion and reduce areas of hyperpigmentation
Over time, vitamin C can brighten the complexion and target areas of hyperpigmentation on the skin. This is because the vitamin inhibits the enzyme in the skin that is responsible for melanin production. By preventing melanin from reaching the hyperpigmented areas, you will notice that these dark spots are visibly lighter and less visible to the naked eye after a few weeks.
Improves skin firmness and reduces signs of aging
Vitamin C can increase the production of collagen and elastin in the lower layers of the skin. Skin feels plumper and firmer, the complexion is more youthful, and signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles are significantly reduced.
If you want to learn more about Vitamin C, read our dedicated blog post.
What are the benefits of retinol?
Retinol is one of the most popular vitamin A derivatives. It is available in over-the-counter formulas in multiple concentrations as well as prescription and professional treatment products. Here are some of the main benefits you can expect when using this ingredient.
Fights acne and breakouts
Retinol increases the rate of the skin cell cycle, revealing healthy new skin cells and clearing the pores of excess sebum, dirt, bacteria and other impurities. When these dead skin cells build up on the surface, it can lead to breakouts, from one or two pimples to frequent blemishes. Retinol can effectively treat the skin, reduce blemishes and keep the skin pure.
Target areas for hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone
As explained, retinol is often mistakenly called an “exfoliator” for the skin, but it increases the rate of the skin cell cycle. This can make the skin look whiter, but you’ll notice that its tone becomes more even, thicker and smoother.
Reduces signs of skin aging
Halluded as one of the most effective anti-aging skin care ingredients on the market. Retinol can effortlessly reduce the signs of aging, from fine lines to deep wrinkles. It does this by working in the dermis layer of the skin and boosting the production of collagen and elastin.
If you want to learn more about retinol and its effects on the skin, you can find the answers on our website.
Can retinol and vitamin C be used together?
Yes, you can use retinol and vitamin C together, but it’s best not to use them at the same time. It’s worth noting that it avoids the risk of over-irritating the skin.
Since each ingredient produces unique and similar results, you may be tempted to layer the two together. The problem is that they work best at different pH levels. Mixing products with different pH levels and then applying them to skin with a completely different pH can cause irritation, and it can be serious! In addition, you’ll find that each active ingredient fails to reach its full potential, essentially causing you to miss out on the positive effects of these ingredients.
For best results, when using retinol and vitamin C together, leave plenty of time between applications. Since the nature of retinol requires it to be used at night, for many people, applying vitamin C in the morning and retinol at night is the easiest and most effective way to get the most out of both active ingredients.
Should vitamin C be applied before or after retinol?
It is considered best to apply vitamin C before retinol and wait at least 30 minutes to allow the pH of the skin to rebalance as this will avoid unwanted reactions. This time allows the skin to settle and not allow too much acid from both active ingredients.
Another reason why it is considered better to use vitamin C before retinol is the consistency of the skincare formula. The consistency of each product plays an important role and can help you know when to apply it.
For example, for best results, you should start with the thinnest concentration and work your way up to the thickest. Formulas such as cleansers and face washes are usually the thinnest, followed by exfoliating toners, serums, moisturizers, face oils, and finally your daily sunscreen in your morning routine. This allows each product to be effectively absorbed into the skin without having to compete with the physical barrier created by thicker formulas.
Can I use Vitamin C in the morning and Retinol at night?
Of course, you will find that many people prefer to use Vitamin C in the morning and Retinol at night. This is because Vitamin C not only protects the skin from oxidative stress throughout the day, but also enhances the complexion, making it radiant and brighter.
Another important factor to remember is that Retinol should only be applied to the skin at night. Because once Retinol is exposed to sunlight or UV rays, it becomes completely useless. By increasing the speed of the skin’s cell cycle, you will find that Retinol also increases the skin’s response to sun sensitivity. In order to avoid skin damage, it is very important to apply SPF 50 sunscreen on the face, neck and shoulders every day.
Here are some more insights on using Retinol and Vitamin C together, and don’t forget to contact us on Instagram if you have any more questions.
