It is generally not recommended to mix vitamin C and retinol together due to the potential for skin irritation. Both ingredients can be effective when used separately, but mixing them can increase the risk of irritation, redness, and other skin reactions. It is best to use one product containing vitamin C and another product containing retinol and apply them at separate times.

Why not mix retinol with vitamin C?

It is generally not recommended to mix retinol with vitamin C due to the potential for irritation and skin sensitivity. Retinol is an exfoliant, which helps to shed dead skin cells and promote cell turnover, while vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps to protect the skin from environmental damage. When combined, these two active ingredients can cause a reaction that can lead to skin irritation, redness and dryness. Additionally, the efficacy of each ingredient can be reduced when mixed with the other, so it is best to use either one separately.

What goes first retinol or vitamin C?

Generally, it is best to apply retinol first and then follow it with vitamin C. Retinol helps to exfoliate the skin and can increase skin sensitivity, which is why it should be applied first. Vitamin C helps to protect the skin from free radical damage and helps to brighten the complexion, so it should be applied after the retinol. It is also important to wait at least 20 minutes between applications to allow the retinol to be fully absorbed into the skin.