Retin A & Vitamin C simultaneously? Will this cancel out the Retin A & make it ineffective?

Question

I apply retin a at night and hawaiian tropic aftersun after applying the retin a. The aftersun has mango and papaya extract, and ascorbic acid in it all which have vitamin c. My question is, will this cancel out the retin a and make it ineffective? I have heard on the internet that the pH of both interact. The vitamin c in it does not list a percentage.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

When using Retin-A (tretinoin) and vitamin C products together, it is important to consider the formulation and timing to maximize their effectiveness. Retin-A is a topical retinoid that works best at a certain pH level, while vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is also pH-sensitive and typically requires a low pH to be effective.

Applying these two products simultaneously might potentially reduce the effectiveness of one or both due to their differing pH requirements. However, this interaction largely depends on the specific formulations and concentrations used, which can vary widely among products. Since the Hawaiian Tropic Aftersun does not list the percentage of vitamin C, it is difficult to determine the exact impact on the Retin-A.

To minimize any potential interaction, consider applying vitamin C in the morning and Retin-A at night. This approach allows each product to work optimally without interfering with the other. Additionally, always follow with sunscreen during the day, as both Retin-A and vitamin C can increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun.

If you have specific concerns or are not seeing the desired results, it may be beneficial to consult with a dermatologist who can provide personalized advice based on your skin type and the products you are using.

Retin A & Vitamin C simultaneously? Will this cancel out the Retin A & make it ineffective?

Answers (1)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Retin-A

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Retin A & Vitamin C simultaneously? Will this cancel out the Retin A & make it ineffective?

Answers (1)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Retin-A

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.