So, you’ve got your hands on both retinol and vitamin C, and you’re wondering, can I use these skin-loving ingredients together?

But what happens when you use them together on your skin? Do they complement or clash?

Here, Curology’s licensed dermatology providers unravel the mystery behind pairing these ingredients—helping you on your way toward radiant skin!

What is retinol?

You can think of retinol as a cousin of vitamin A—falling under the retinoid family.¹ It’s known for its potential in treating aging skin, and the bonus? It’s gentler than some of its retinoid siblings, like tazarotene. Whether combatting natural aging or sun-induced aging, retinol can help lead to younger-looking skin.² Studies show it helps reduce fine lines by giving a boost to collagen production.³ And in just 12 weeks, it’s been shown to reduce facial wrinkles.⁴

So, if you’re seeking a youthful glow, retinol might be a good choice.

What is vitamin C?

Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that can truly benefit your skin when used correctly.⁵ When you pick up a vitamin C serum, it’s usually in the form of L-ascorbic acid. A concentration between 10-20% might give you the best results.⁶

Here are 5 ways it can benefit your skin:⁷

1. Antioxidant properties: It combats oxidative stress, shielding your skin from pollution and harmful sun rays.

2. Anti-aging effects: By boosting collagen and holding onto existing collagen fibers, it’s on the frontline against wrinkles.

3. Photoprotection: Offering some protection against UV radiation, it helps minimize sun-induced aging and smoothens your skin texture.

4. Anti-pigmentary effects: It’s known to reduce melanin formation, helping to fade those stubborn dark spots.

5. Synergy with vitamin E: Paired with vitamin E, another antioxidant, they tag-team to amplify protection against oxidative harm.

So, in a nutshell, vitamin C isn’t just great for immunity—it can be a tool for getting radiant, youthful skin!

How to use both retinol and vitamin C in my skincare routine?

Retinol and vitamin C clearly have their advantages. If you’re conflicted about which one to try first, you may think of starting both at the same time.

Curious about combining retinol and vitamin C in your skincare routine?

Well, there’s some good news. Studies have shown that these two powerhouse ingredients can work well when used together. For instance, volunteers who applied a cream containing both retinol and vitamin C saw an improvement in skin changes due to photoaging.⁸

While a product with both ingredients can be applied daily, if using them separately, consider vitamin C for morning and retinol at night to avoid potential irritation.

But before diving in, always get a thumbs up from a dermatology expert!

Speak to a dermatology professional

Thinking of merging retinol and vitamin C in your skincare lineup? Before you start, consider the advice of a dermatology provider. They can guide you on how best to use both ingredients. Especially if you’re juggling other skincare products or medications, they can advise you on potential interactions. And, since retinol and vitamin C come in a variety of strengths, they can pinpoint the concentration that’ll be both effective and gentle for your complexion.

Remember, reactions to new products might not be immediate, so having regular check-ins with your dermatologist ensures you can adapt your routine as needed. Ultimately, with their expertise, you can craft a skincare regimen tailored to your unique needs, possibly integrating treatments that can complement retinol and vitamin C.

After all, skincare isn’t one-size-fits-all, so why not lean on expert advice to truly glow?

Bring out your natural glow with Curology

At Curology, we believe in enhancing your unique beauty. Your skin tells a story, one of resilience, joy, challenges, and triumphs. Why not give it the love and care it truly deserves? Our mission is to bring out that inherent glow—the one that’s been there all along, just waiting for its moment in the spotlight.

With science-backed ingredients prescribed for your individual needs, we aim to address the nuances of your skin, ensuring it gets precisely what it needs to thrive.

Get your personalized skincare routine with Curology

Get your personalized skincare routine with Curology

Start your skin quiz

At Curology,* we don’t believe in turning back the clock; we believe in making every moment, every age, every phase your most radiant. Dive in and explore what personalized skincare truly feels like. Ready to embrace your most luminous self? Discover Future-Proofᴿˣ for anti-aging** today.

P.S. We did the homework so you don’t have to:

1. Mukherjee, S., et al. Retinoids in the treatment of skin aging: an overview of clinical efficacy and safety. Clin Interv Aging. (December 2006).

2. Mukherjee, S., et al. Retinoids in the treatment of skin aging: an overview of clinical efficacy and safety. Clin Interv Aging. Ibid.

3. Kafi, R., et al. Improvement of naturally aged skin with vitamin A (retinol). Arch Dermatol. (May, 2007).

4. Kong, R., et al. A comparative study of the effects of retinol and retinoic acid on histological, molecular, and clinical properties of human skin. J Cosmet Dermatol. (March 2016).

5. Al-Niaimi, F. and Chiang, N.Y.Z. Topical Vitamin C and the Skin: Mechanisms of Action and Clinical Applications. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. (July 2017).

6. Al-Niaimi, F. and Chiang, N.Y.Z. Topical Vitamin C and the Skin: Mechanisms of Action and Clinical Applications. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. Ibid.

7. Al-Niaimi, F. and Chiang, N.Y.Z. Topical Vitamin C and the Skin: Mechanisms of Action and Clinical Applications. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. Ibid.

8. Seité, S., et al. Histological evaluation of a topically applied retinol-vitamin C combination. Skin Pharmacol Physiol. (March-April 2005).

9. Mukherjee, S., et al. Retinoids in the treatment of skin aging: an overview of clinical efficacy and safety. Clin Interv Aging. Ibid.

Elise Griffin is a certified physician assistant at Curology. She received her Master of Medical Science in physician assistant studies from Nova Southeastern University in Jacksonville, FL.

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**Restrictions apply. See website for full details and important safety information.

Written by

Curology Team

Medically reviewed by

Elise Griffin, PA-C