If you’re using a serum, you’re definitely doing something right for your skin because serums are honestly avant-garde skin care products. They are powerful products that provide the skin with valuable ingredients such as antioxidants.
But just because you’re invested in these modern skin care products, it doesn’t mean you should not forget your good old moisturizer.
Although you can use serums without moisturizers, you have to understand that moisturizing is an essential aspect of skin maintenance. Moisturizers safeguard your skin while also hydrating it.
Studies have also established the excellent results obtained after using both serums and moisturizers. According to research, face serums, in combination with moisturizers, are efficacious and well tolerated.
Face serums are beneficial for improving: (1)(2)
Read on to know more.
Why Is It Necessary to Use a Vitamin C Serum With a Moisturizer?
Here are some reasons as to why it is recommended to use vitamin C serum with a moisturizer.
1. To seal in the serum
Although you may come across serums such as vitamin C serums that have a hydrating element, you must still add a layer of moisturizer after applying the serum to seal it into the skin.
Serums are great at addressing a specific skin issue, while moisturizers are important for the overall wellness of the skin.
Moisturizers help repair the skin barrier, strengthen the skin’s integrity, and improve the skin’s appearance by acting as: (3)(4)
- Humectants
- Emollients
- Occlusives
2. To lock the moisture in
Vitamin C serums can be hydrating as they pull moisture into your skin, but a moisturizer is needed to lock that moisture in. Therefore, it is a good practice to follow up your serum application with a moisturizer.
Moreover, people with a weak skin barrier need fatty acids, lipids, and other ingredients to strengthen it, and these ingredients are found in a moisturizer. This is why moisturizers enhance: (3)
- Skin hydration
- Smoothness
- Softness
- Flexibility
3. To prevent discoloration
According to experts, vitamin C preparations can get oxidized when it comes in contact with the atmosphere, (5) turning orange or a little darker in color. This change can cause discolorations in the skin.
Layering your vitamin C with a moisturizer prevents oxidation from happening and avoids causing darkening of the skin.
4. To avoid side effects
Another reason to use a moisturizer after vitamin C application is to treat any side effects that may appear.
Research suggests that mild side effects such as yellow discoloration of the skin as well as adverse reactions such as stinging, erythema, and dryness arising from topical vitamin C application can be avoided by using a moisturizer. (6)
When Can I Use Vitamin C Serums Alone?
If you really want to use your serum without following it up with a moisturizer, you’ll have to experiment a little to find out whether it works for you or not. Other external factors such as the environment and the season may also influence this decision.
If you have a normal or oily skin texture and you think your skin’s protective barrier is intact and robust enough to protect your skin from pollutants or germs, you may be able to use serum alone.
However, if you have dry skin or the environment is causing dryness, then using both serum and moisturizer is the way to go. Also, if you have dry and sensitive skin, your skin barrier may need a little strengthening by using a moisturizer. (7)(8)
Why Use Vitamin C Serums?
Vitamin C serums are amazing products for your skin because of the various benefits they bring about, such as their antiaging action. They are also deemed safe for almost all types of skin.
Additionally, vitamin C serums are well known for their hydrating and anti-inflammatory properties. They may be helpful in brightening the skin complexion by treating hyperpigmentation.
Their other uses include: (9)
- Lessening the impression of dark circles
- Promoting collagen production
- Preventing skin sagging
- Protecting the skin from sun damage
With such incredible actions, vitamin C serums are no doubt a valuable addition to everyone’s skin care routine.
How to Use Vitamin C Serums Correctly?
- Apply the serum only after cleansing your face properly. So, use a serum when you’re done cleansing, toning, and exfoliating your skin.
- Always remember that serums are packed with powerful ingredients. So, a small quantity of serum will go a long way.
- To get the various benefits of a vitamin C serum, you only need a drop or two. Take a tiny amount of serum on your palms and gently pat it on your skin.
- Be careful when you use vitamin C around the eyes.
- Give your serum some time for it to be totally absorbed into the skin before you seal it with a moisturizer.
- The frequency of use of a vitamin C serum will depend on its concentration. If your product has a high concentration of vitamin C, using it once a day is enough.
Most-Asked Questions About Using Vitamin C Serum for Skin Care
Is L-ascorbic acid and vitamin C serum the same?
L-ascorbic acid is a type of vitamin C that is found in human skin. Since it is an active form of vitamin C, it has a high bioavailability but is unstable.
What are the side effects of vitamin C serums?
Side effects of topical vitamin c serums can include: (6)
- Dryness
- Irritation
- Skin discoloration
- Erythema
- Stinging
When should I use my vitamin C serum?
You can use your vitamin C serum any time during the day. If you use it during the day, make sure to use a sunscreen with a good SPF.
Should I use vitamin C serum before or after moisturizer?
Apply your vitamin C serum before your moisturizer.
Final Word
Face serums and moisturizers are both essential for a wholesome skin care regimen. They ensure that your skin doesn’t dry out and remains moisturized.
Face serums can’t be used as a replacement for moisturizers. Therefore, using both products together in the correct order is critical for favorable effects.