Is it Right to Take Vitamin C Before or After Moisturizer?

But then, how does one get it right with this skin goodness? Is it Right to Take Vitamin C Before or After Moisturizer? All about layering like a pro! Let’s demystify the skincare sandwich in plain English.

Well, when it comes to, Is it Right to Take Vitamin C Before or After Moisturizer? It is of course, notable that skincare routines are a science experiment, and when you’re trying to figure out the right order of application of your products, things can get insane. 

The number one most-asked question: do you put vitamin C before or after moisturizer? Let’s dispel this skincare secret so that you can maximize the benefits of your routine.

What’s the Deal with Vitamin C?

First, let’s talk about why vitamin C is a big deal. Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is a rockstar ingredient; this vital acid brightens your skin and fades dark spots.

It also boosts collagen production for tighter, more youthful-looking skin, as well as protecting it from environmental stressors such as pollution and UV rays.

It’s a crucial component of any skin care regimen, but to get the most out of it, you need to apply it correctly. That’s where the moisturizer dilemma starts.

Do You Apply Vitamin C Before or After Moisturizer?

The quick answer is: apply vitamin C first, then moisturizer, and this is because skincare products should be applied from thinnest to thickest consistency. 

Vitamin C serums are watery and light, while moisturizers are creamier and thicker. It is advisable to apply the serum first so that it penetrates your skin more effectively. 

Regarding pH issues, it works well at low pH (around 3.5). Most moisturizers have a higher pH, so applying vitamin C first lets it work unhindered without any interference.

Also, moisturizers create a physical barrier on the skin to preserve moisture. If you put vitamin C on after you have moisturizer on, it might not penetrate as well, negating its use.

How to Layer Vitamin C and Moisturizer

Now that you understand that vitamin C should be applied before moisturizer, here’s a brief step-by-step instruction on how to apply them correctly:

1. Cleanse

Start with a clean face. Wash your face using a mild cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and makeup.

2. Tone (Optional)

If you use a toner, use it after washing. It will help level the pH of your skin and get it ready for the subsequent steps.

3. Use Vitamin C Serum

Squeeze a couple of drops of vitamin C serum onto your fingers and pat gently onto your face and neck. Allow it to absorb for about a minute or two.

4. Moisturize

Seal the serum in with your preferred moisturizer to maintain hydrated skin.

5. Sunscreen (Day Routine)

If you are doing it during the day, finish with a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or more. Vitamin C is wonderful at making your skin more resilient to UV rays, but sunscreen is still necessary.

What if You Have Other Actives?

In case your skincare routine involves other actives (like retinol, hyaluronic acid, or exfoliants), this is how you layer them with vitamin C and moisturizer:

1. Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid

Apply vitamin C, then hyaluronic acid, and finally moisturizer. Hyaluronic acid is a humectant that brings water into the skin, so apply it after vitamin C.

2. Vitamin C and Retinol

Apply vitamin C in the morning and retinol at night to prevent possible irritation. If you prefer to use them together, apply vitamin C first, wait 10-15 minutes, then apply retinol, followed by moisturizer.

3. Vitamin C and Exfoliants

Don’t use vitamin C and exfoliants (e.g., AHAs or BHAs) at the same time, as this will probably irritate your skin. Alternate application each day or apply them at different times (e.g., morning vitamin C, evening exfoliants). 

Success Tips

Following are a couple of additional tips to help you optimize the use of your vitamin C and moisturiser regimen:

If you’re new to vitamin C, start with a lower concentration (around 10%) and gradually increase as your skin builds tolerance.

Vitamin C is sensitive to light and air, so store your serum in a cool, dark place (like a cabinet) to keep it stable and effective.

To make sure you’re not allergic to it, before applying vitamin C serum to your face, patch test it on a small area of skin (like behind the ear).

If you notice redness, dryness, or irritation, cut back on the frequency with which you use vitamin C or switch to a gentler version.

The Bottom Line

Then do you apply vitamin C before or after moisturizer? Before! By layering, you’ll maximize its benefits and maintain your skin’s glow and health. 

By layering correctly, vitamin C and moisturizer can work together to give you the healthy, glowing skin you’ve always wanted. So, layer like a pro and let your skincare shine!

Vitamin C and moisturizer are the dynamic duo of skin care, they work best when applied in the right order. So, do as you’re instructed, and your skin will thank you with a glowing, plump face!