Applying Vitamin C Serum: Before or After Moisturiser? The Right Skincare Order Explained

Applying Vitamin C Serum: Before or After Moisturiser? The Right Skincare Order Explained

If you are on the internet, chances are you are aware of vitamin C’s growing popularity. But with its popularity comes a common question about applying vitamin C serum before or after moisturiser. No, this isn't another silly question. In fact, the answer to it can make all the difference.

Knowing how to layer your products in the correct order is important to get the maximum benefits. In this article, we will address the growing confusion around vitamin C serum and help you find the best one available in the Indian market.

Understanding Skincare Layering Basics

Think of your skincare routine like dressing up: you start with the lightest layers and build up to the heaviest.

Golden Rule: Always go from thin to thick consistency.

  • Step 1: Cleanser – removes dirt, oil, and impurities.
  • Step 2: Toner or essence – balances pH and preps skin.
  • Step 3: Serum (like Vitamin C) – lightweight actives that go deep into skin.
  • Step 4: Moisturiser – locks in hydration and seals everything in.
  • Step 5 (Daytime): Sunscreen – your ultimate protection shield.

When you follow this order, every product performs its job effectively without blocking the other.

What Is Vitamin C Serum & & Why Is It a Skincare Hero?

Vitamin C serum isn’t just a passing internet trend. It’s a dermatologist-approved, science-backed skincare essential. Here’s why:

  • Brightens dull skin – fades dark spots, uneven tone, and adds instant glow.
  • Protects from damage – fights free radicals caused by pollution and UV rays.
  • Reduces pigmentation – lightens stubborn dark spots and early signs of ageing.
  • Boosts collagen production – making skin firmer and youthful.

Fun fact: In Indian traditions, dadi-nanis often recommended amla (Indian gooseberry) for skin glow. Modern science agrees – and Kakadu Plum, found in CITTA’s Vitamin C Brightening Serum, is 100x richer in Vitamin C than oranges!

When to Apply Vitamin C Serum: Before or After Moisturiser?

Now to the million-dollar question about applying vitamin C serum before or after moisturiser.

Simply put, always apply vitamin C serum before your moisturiser. Now, you may wonder why?

Serums are lightweight, water-based active ingredients that are designed to penetrate deep into your skin. If you apply your moisturiser before the serum, you are reducing the serum’s efficacy by blocking this penetration.

Creams or moisturisers will always come second-last in your vitamin C skin routine. Its job is to lock in all the goodness of your serum and deliver long-term results.

Bonus tip: the last step of your skincare routine is SPF.

How to Apply Vitamin C Serum the Right Way

Guesswork doesn’t work well when it comes to skincare. There’s a correct way of applying vitamin C serum. Let’s take a look:

  1. Cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser to get rid of the dirt and oil accumulated in your skin throughout the day.
  2. (Optional) Apply a hydrating toner to balance the pH level in your skin.
  3. Apply 3-5 drops of your favourite vitamin C serum on dry skin.
  4. Give it 60-90 seconds before going onto the next step to let the product absorb better.
  5. Apply moisturiser to seal in the hydration.
  6. Finish with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ in the morning.

Why Choose CITTA’s Vitamin C Brightening Serum

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure that the vitamin C serum delivers the best results, here are a few common mistakes to avoid while using it:

  • Using too much: A little goes a long way! You don’t need too much product.
  • Mixing it with retinol or AHAs: Avoid mixing strong actives when using vitamin C in the same routine, unless prescribed by your dermatologist.
  • Skipping sunscreen: Always use sunblock in the morning to enhance the benefits of Vitamin C serum.

Why Choose CITTA’s Vitamin C Brightening Serum

If you are looking for the best vitamin C serum for your face, go for the CITTA 12% serum. What makes it stand out in the crowd?

  • Its lightweight, non-sticky formula absorbs quickly into the skin.
  • It is formulated with the most stable form of vitamin that doesn’t oxidise easily.
  • Infused with the goodness of Kakadu plum, which is the richest natural source of vitamin C, has Hyaluronic acid that not just hydrates but enhances the penetration of Vitamin C, which means better results.
  • Designed to suit all Indian skin types and the Indian climate.

Upgrade your skincare routine with CITTA vitamin C brightening serum and let your skin glow with confidence.

Product

Also Read: Skincare Routine for Oily Skin: 6 Expert-Backed Steps That Actually Work

Conclusion

So, should you apply Vitamin C serum before or after moisturiser? The answer is clear: always before moisturiser. When layered right, Vitamin C can do wonders – brightening, protecting, and rejuvenating your skin.

Consistency is key, and with the right serum, glowing skin isn’t far away.

FAQs

Can I use vitamin C serum at night?

Yes, you can use vitamin C at night. While it is recommended to use it in the morning, adding it to your nighttime routine can be effective too.

How long should I wait after applying serum to use moisturiser?

Wait for a couple of minutes until the serum is absorbed well into your skin.

Can I use vitamin C serum with other active ingredients?

It is best to avoid using vitamin C with strong actives like retinol without consulting your dermatologist. Active ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide are great actives to pair with vitamin C.

What type of moisturiser is best after vitamin C serum?

Don't go for anything too heavy. Choose a moisturiser enriched with hyaluronic acid.

Can I skip moisturizer after serum?

No, moisturiser is a must after serum. It locks in the serum and keeps the skin hydrated, promoting a healthy glow.

Also Read: Are You Using Vitamin C Serum Wrong? Here’s What Dermatologists Say

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