How to Layer Vitamin C Serum with Other Skincare Products Effectively

How to Layer Vitamin C Serum with Other Skincare Products Effectively

Introduction

Vitamin C serum is a powerhouse ingredient, but we have to use it in the right way. In the world of expensive skincare, we have to understand the right order to apply the skincare for its significant impact. Better layering helps ensure that each active ingredient penetrates the skin optimally and its magic works without any interference. Through this comprehensive guide, you will learn how to incorporate Vitamin C brightening serum into your skincare regimen for getting the maximum effect of glow and protection.

Why Layering Matters in Skincare

Proper skin care requires proper layering. Incorrect layering can reduce the effectiveness drastically, no matter how expensive the product is.

There is a science that works behind proper skincare layering, and the principle is thinnest to thickest, water-based to oil-based. It helps smaller molecules penetrate properly and go deeper, helping larger molecules seal in the benefits. Vitamin C serum plays an extremely important role in this system because it needs to be applied early in one’s skincare routine to increase skin penetration and effectiveness.

 

How to Layer Your Skincare Products | Barefaced 

Best Time to Use Vitamin C Serum

Vitamin C serum for glowing skin delivers optimal benefits if it is applied in the morning. Here's why:

  • All throughout your day, your skin receives antioxidant protection from vitamin C against environmental aggressors
  • Your sunscreen receives stronger photoprotection effects because of this addition
  • Regular morning use of Vitamin C helps the skin become brighter while gradually decreasing unwanted skin pigmentation.

The CITTA Vitamin C Brightening Face Serum is formulated particularly to complement one’s morning routine, providing powerful protection while being gentle enough for everyday use.

Also Read: Day Or Night? When To Apply Vitamin C Serum

Step-by-Step Guide to Layering Vitamin C Serum in Your Routine

AM Routine

  1. Cleanser: Start with a gentle cleanser and help yourself create a clean canvas for actives.
  2. Toner (Optional): If you want, you can use it as it helps to balance your skin's pH.
  3. Vitamin C Serum: Apply 3-5 drops of your best Vitamin C serum for the face to slightly damp skin and let it fully absorb for 1-2 minutes.
  4. Moisturizer: To hydrate your skin, lock it with a lightweight moisturizer like CITTA Aqua Boost Face Gel.
  5. Sunscreen: Always finish your skin routine in the morning with SPF 50+ sunscreen. It is non-negotiable, particularly when you are using Vitamin C.

How long to wait before applying & layering skincare products together?

PM Routine (Optional Use)

  1. Double Cleanse: Makeup and sunscreen must be removed thoroughly.
  2. Toner: Toner rebalances skin pH and removes any residual impurities that are present in the skin.
  3. Vitamin C Serum: Check if your skin can bear it, and apply the best Vitamin C serum in India to your evening routine.
  4. Nourishing Moisturizer or Night Cream: Lock in benefits with nourishing moisturizer or a richer night cream like CITTA Ceramides & White Tea Moisturizer or CITTA Regenerative Night Cream.

Ingredients That Pair Well with Vitamin C

Use of right combination of ingredients enhances the benefits of the Vitamin C brightening serum you are using:

  • Hyaluronic Acid: Hyaluronic Acid ensures hydration, while Vitamin C focuses on brightening effects.
  • Niacinamide (exists at low concentrations): This reinforces skin protection while Vitamin C addresses skin pigmentation issues.
  • Ferulic Acid: The antioxidant properties of Vitamin C are enhanced through ferulic acid. It stabilizes the Vitamin C formulation.
  • Sunscreen:  Everyone who goes under the sun should use sunscreen for UV protection, but Vitamin C continues to heal previous UV-induced harm.

Ingredients to Avoid with Vitamin C

When using the best Vitamin C serum, we must be very careful with these probable interactions:

  • Retinol: Retinol products require caution before use at night because the combination can lead to skin irritation.
  • Benzoyl Peroxide: The combination of Benzoyl Peroxide with Vitamin C can oxidize Vitamin C while rendering it ineffective
  • Strong AHAs/BHAs: Using strong AHAs/BHAs together creates harmful skin irritation and compromises the skin barrier when using them together.

Cheat Sheet: Mixing Skincare Actives : r/AsianBeauty 

Also Read: Here’s How A Vitamin C Face Serum Can Be An Absolute Game-Changer

 

Common Layering Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best serum for glowing skin won't work properly if these common errors are made during skin care:

  • Cocktailing Too Many Actives: Limit active ingredients to 2-3 per routine to prevent your skin from sensing any irritation
  • Rushing Between Layers: Allow 1-2 minutes between products and help the skin absorb the products
  • Skipping SPF After Vitamin C: This duo works synergistically. If you miss sunscreen, it negates many Vitamin C benefits.
  • Using Incompatible Products: Research ingredient interactions properly before creating your final skincare routine with Vitamin C serum

Also Read: 11 Incredible Benefits Of Vitamin C Serum You Need To Know

 

Why Choose CITTA Vitamin C Brightening Serum

The CITTA Vitamin C serum stands out from other options available in the market for several compelling reasons. Those are:

  • This product contains a gentle yet effective formulation with 10% Vitamin C enhanced with 2% Kakadu Plum.
  • This formula has a lightweight, non-sticky texture that layers beautifully under other skincare.
  • Suitable for those who have sensitive skin types and beginners to Vitamin C
  • This formula is designed to meet Indian skin needs in hot climate conditions.

Conclusion

The complete protective and brightening benefits of Vitamin C serum depend on the correct layering of the Vitamin C serum.

Follow the guidelines mentioned here, and incorporate the CITTA Vitamin C Brightening Face Serum into your daily morning skincare routine and experience the effects of this powerful antioxidant like never before. With proper usage, your skin will thank you for improved brightness, texture, and protection from environmental damage.

Shop now and glow with confidence!

 Also Read: How To Apply Vitamin C Serum Correctly On The Face?


FAQs

Should Vitamin C serum be used before or after moisturizer?

Vitamin C serum should be applied after cleansing and toning, but it has to be used before moisturizing for maximum absorption and efficacy.

Can I use Vitamin C serum both morning and night?

Yes, you can definitely use Vitamin C serum twice daily and notice how your skin is taking it. However, morning application is the best time to apply Vitamin C because of its protective properties.

What not to mix with Vitamin C serum?

Vitamin C with benzoyl peroxide, high-strength retinol, and AHA/BHA acids should be avoided in the same routine for stopping irritation and reduced efficacy.

Do I need to wear sunscreen after Vitamin C serum?

 Absolutely! Sunscreen is a must. Specifically, while using, Vitamin C serum for glowing skin as it prevents UV damage while enhancing the brightening benefits.

 Also Read: What Is Aging? 7 Tips For Youthful Glowing Skin

Back to blog

Leave a comment

  • The Delicate Balance of Children's Skin: Why Ad...

    Are you using your shampoo for your kids as well? Is it safe for your kids? Are you a parent struggling to find the right skincare products for your kids...

    Read more

    The Delicate Balance of Children's Skin: Why Adult Skincare Isn't Suitable

    Are you using your shampoo for your kids as well? Is it safe for your kids? Are you a parent struggling to find the right skincare products for your kids and teens? Many parents even switch to using adult products once their kids reach 6 years old due to this confusion. As parents, our children's well-being is paramount, and understanding the unique needs of their developing skin and hair is crucial. Their skin and hair differ significantly from adults, and using adult products can have adverse effects. Dr. Prajakta Bhokre, a seasoned pediatrician and neonatologist in Pune, emphasizes, “Children's skin and hair are delicate and require special care. Adult skincare and hair care products can disrupt the delicate balance and harm their developing systems." Kids' Skin: A Delicate Canvas To comprehend the importance of specialized care for children's skin, we must recognize the structural differences between their skin and adults'. A child's skin is thinner, more delicate, and has a higher surface area to body weight ratio than adults. Their skin's natural protective barrier, composed of lipids, is not fully developed, which means their skin is not as efficient at retaining moisture and is more susceptible to dehydration, irritation, and damage from environmental factors such as UV radiation and pollutants. Even the pH level of a child's skin is more acidic, which helps to ward off harmful bacteria and makes it more sensitive to changes and potential damage. Their hair is finer and less oily, resulting in a greater tendency for tangles and breakage. Why It's Unsafe for Kids to Use Adult Products? Adult skincare and hair care products often contain potent ingredients like parabens, sulphates, silicones, talc, and phthalates that may be too harsh for a child's delicate skin and hair. Ingredients like retinoids, salicylic acid, and strong fragrances can strip away natural oils, disrupt the skin's pH balance, and cause allergies, rashes, or even chemical burns in children. Moreover, many adult products are formulated to address age-specific concerns, such as wrinkles or acne, which are not relevant to children. Ideal Ingredients for Kids' Skincare and Hair Care For kids aged 5-10, it's important to choose products with gentle, natural ingredients. Ingredients like almond oil, olive oil, basil oil, rice protein, aloe vera, coconut oil, shea butter, turmeric oil, and oats are not only nourishing but also gentle on young skin and hair. “These ingredients hydrate, protect, soothe, and help maintain the skin's natural moisture barrier, promoting healthy growth and making them perfect for nurturing young skin and hair,” says Dr. Bhokre The Importance of Age-Appropriate Products (0-10 years) It's essential to select age-appropriate products for kids. Dr. Bhokre further states that “Children aged 5-10 years should use products specifically designed for their age group, such as baby products ranging from 0-10 years. These products are formulated with the unique needs of growing children's skin and hair in mind, providing gentle care without harsh chemicals.” They contain milder ingredients, ensuring that kids' skin remains protected and nourished. pH Levels: A Precarious Balance A child's skin is more prone to pH level changes than an adult's. Their skin's pH is naturally more acidic at around 5.5, which acts as a barrier against harmful bacteria. Adult products can disrupt this delicate balance, leaving their skin vulnerable, further leading to dryness, itchiness,  infections, or even eczema. Structural Differences in Hair In addition to skin, a child's hair is structurally different from an adult's. Children's hair is finer, more fragile, less porous and lacks the oil-producing capabilities of adult hair. Adult hair products may strip their hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle. Ingredients to Avoid in Kids' Products “When selecting skincare and hair care products for kids, it's essential to avoid harsh chemicals like sulfates, talc, asbestos, silicones, mineral oils, parabens, and strong fragrances. These ingredients can irritate the skin and harm their overall health”, says Dr. Bhokre. Opt for products that are free from harmful additives to keep the child’s skin healthy while keeping them safe from the detrimental effects of these harmful chemicals. At CITTA we focus on using the highest quality natural ingredients while keeping harsh chemicals at bay. Our products are carefully formulated to cater to the unique needs of children's skin and hair. CITTA prioritizes safety and nourishment for kids' skin and our commitment to natural ingredients ensures that children can enjoy healthy, glowing skin without the risk of adverse reactions. While it may be tempting to use adult skincare and hair care products on your children, it's essential to consider their unique skin and hair needs. Opt for products specifically designed for kids, enriched with natural ingredients, and free from harsh chemicals. Our products promote healthy skin for children while emphasizing the importance of nourishment and safety in children's skincare routines. After all, our children deserve the very best, and that begins with caring for their delicate skin and hair with the utmost attention and care.

    Read More
  • Baby's Delicate Skin Deserves the Best: Choose ...

    Dr Jagadish Dhekne (MD) is a distinguished Consulting Pediatrician in Pune. With an impressive track record, he served as Former President of the Maharashtra State Academy of Pediatrics in 2010...

    Read more

    Baby's Delicate Skin Deserves the Best: Choose the Perfect Skincare for your Bundle of Joy

    Dr Jagadish Dhekne (MD) is a distinguished Consulting Pediatrician in Pune. With an impressive track record, he served as Former President of the Maharashtra State Academy of Pediatrics in 2010 and Former President of the Indian Academy of Pediatrics Pune Branch from 2008 to 2009. He's also the Director of Unique Hospital for Children and Kartik Group of Hospitals in Pimpri-Chinchwad, Pune. Dr Dhekne is recognized as a Master Trainer for both the "Asthma Training Module" and "Problem-Solving in Paediatric Infectious Diseases (PSPID)" by IAP.  As you embark on this new adventure called parenting, keeping your bundle of joy cosy and well-fed becomes your top-most priority. You’d move mountains to ensure they’re showered with all the TLC in the world; you would go to any lengths to protect them. Apart from ensuring the right nutrition and shielding them from heat and cold, even delicate matters like choosing the right skincare for your ‘mini-me’ can become an uphill task. Their sensitive and delicate skin requires the utmost care. If you’re unsure about how to choose the best skincare products for your little munchkins, we’ve got you covered! Dr Jagadish Dhekne (MD), who is among the distinguished consulting pediatricians from Pune, is here to drop some wisdom on pampering that adorable epidermis and the dos and don'ts of skincare for babies. He also gives us a low-down on how to pick the safest baby skincare brands: Allergen-free formulations:  Opt for products that are free from harsh chemicals, strong fragrances, and dyes. Allergen-free formulations are designed to minimise the risk of adverse reactions and are gentler on your baby's skin. Avoid harmful ingredients:  “Avoid products that contain parabens, sulfates, phthalates, and artificial preservatives, as these chemicals can cause skin irritations and potential long-term health risks. Instead, choose products with natural Indian ingredients such as aloe vera, coconut oil, turmeric oil, and almond oil, known for their soothing properties,” says Dr Dhekne. Moisturisation is key: Babies are prone to dry skin, especially in certain weather conditions. Choose moisturising products specifically formulated for babies to keep their skin soft and hydrated. Read labels thoroughly: Take the time to read product labels carefully and pay attention to certifications such as ‘paediatrician-tested’ and ‘dermatologist-approved.’ These endorsements offer added assurance about the product's safety and efficacy. Minimalistic approach: Stick to the essentials for baby skincare, such as a gentle baby wash and moisturiser. Avoid overwhelming your baby’s skin with too many products. Consult a paediatric dermatologist: When in doubt, seek professional advice. Paediatricians can assess your baby’s skin type and recommend suitable products based on their needs. A dermatologist can also provide personalised guidance if your child has specific skin conditions like eczema or cradle cap. “The natural ingredients in babycare products help soothe and protect the delicate baby skin, leaving it soft, supple and healthy. Parents can witness improved skin conditions, reduced irritation and a noticeable difference in their baby's overall skin health after using natural and organic products,” adds Dr Dhekne. When it comes to baby skincare, it’s always better to exercise caution. You can embrace the benefits of natural care through CITTA’s dermatologist-approved and ‘conscious’ baby skincare products. The brand is committed to crafting products with natural ingredients while maintaining the highest safety and efficacy standards. CITTA’s baby skincare range comprises gentle and nourishing formulations enriched with plant extracts, essential oils, and botanical goodness.

    Read More