Which Ingredients Should Not Be Mixed with Vitamin C?

While some active ingredients work in harmony with Vitamin C for your skin's benefit, others have the opposite effect if layered together. Discover which active ingredients to combine or avoid with your Vitamin C treatment.


Which Active Ingredients Should You Combine with Vitamin C?

1. Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is an excellent ally to Vitamin C. Hydrating and plumping, it enhances the action of Vitamin C without interfering with it. Apply your Vitamin C serum, followed by a hydrating treatment with hyaluronic acid for radiant and plump skin.

2. Vitamin C and Niacinamide

Long considered incompatible, the combination of Vitamin C and niacinamide is actually beneficial. Niacinamide soothes the skin and improves the skin barrier, complementing Vitamin C's antioxidant action. Apply them together or one after the other without concern.

3. Vitamin C and Tranexamic Acid

Tranexamic acid is a brightening active ingredient that targets dark spots. Used with Vitamin C, it enhances its action on hyperpigmentation and evens out skin tone. For optimal effectiveness, first apply your Vitamin C serum, then your tranexamic acid treatment.

4. Vitamin C and Sun Protection

Vitamin C protects against oxidative stress, but it does not replace sunscreen. When combined with SPF protection, it strengthens defense against UV rays and prevents premature skin aging. Always include an SPF in your morning routine after your Vitamin C serum.

Which Active Ingredients Should You Avoid with Vitamin C?

1. Vitamin C and Retinol

Retinol is a powerful anti-aging ingredient, but it can be irritating. Using it with vitamin C increases the risk of redness, dryness, and sensitivity. To avoid these side effects, apply vitamin C in the morning and retinol in the evening.

2. Vitamin C and Glycolic Acid (AHA)

AHAs, especially glycolic acid, are powerful exfoliants that can make skin more reactive. When layered with vitamin C, they increase the risk of irritation and sensitivity. It is recommended to use vitamin C in the morning and AHAs in the evening.

3. Vitamin C and Salicylic Acid (BHA)

Salicylic acid is ideal for oily and blemish-prone skin, but it can be too aggressive when combined with vitamin C. To avoid redness and dryness, apply these active ingredients at different times of the day or use salicylic acid in a rinse-off cleansing gel.

4. Vitamin C and Benzoyl Peroxide

Used for acne, benzoyl peroxide can oxidize vitamin C and reduce its effectiveness. If you are using a benzoyl peroxide treatment, apply vitamin C in the morning and your anti-acne treatment in the evening.

Can you layer multiple vitamin C products?

Too much vitamin C can have the opposite effect of what's desired and become pro-oxidant, causing sensitivity and inflammation. It's best to opt for a single, well-formulated vitamin C serum, followed by a complementary product like a moisturizer or sunscreen.

Conclusion

Vitamin C is a powerful ingredient but can be tricky to combine. To avoid irritation and maximize its benefits, pair it with gentle active ingredients like hyaluronic acid or niacinamide, and avoid mixing it with overly aggressive exfoliants. By following these pairing guidelines, you'll optimize your skincare routine for radiant, healthy skin.

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