Can I use Retin-A and vitamin C at the same time?

Question

I first apply Retina A gel, then apply a skin brightening product-I recently realized it contains a form of Vitamin C-is that OK?

Thomas Wright, MD · Answer

Retin A and Vitamin C both are great anti aging skin care products. However, both can be irritating, so it is best to do the Vitamin C in AM and Retin A in the PM

Alex Khadavi, MD · Answer

You should use the Vitamin C during the day  accompanied with SPF 35 or higher with at east 7% zinc in it, alternating nights with Retin- A. For example: Monday morning you decide to use the Vitamin C in your skin regimen, use the Retin- A Tuesday night; and so on.

Using both is a great idea and it will produce beautiful results, as long as you apply them correctly at the time of day that allows them to be at each products best. Good luck to you.

Steven Hacker, MD · Answer

Retin A may be used in conjunction with a topical vitamin C product. However, the topical vitamin C product should be applied at least 30 minutes before or after the Retin A. Also, the vitamin C product when used in combination with Retin A may cause irritation and thus would suggest this protocol only after a dermatologist reviews with you. The topical vitamin C product should be approved first by your dermatologist as well since there are so many "gimmicky" products out there.

Mary P. Lupo, MD · Answer

It is always important to know what you want to accomplish with any skin care program. In general, you want to protect in the morning and repair in the evening. My favorite combo is Vitamin C with sunscreen in the daytime, because the sunscreen blocks UV light and the Vitamin C is a protective antioxidant. Retin A is the gold standard for PM repair and since it is very unstable to light, it does not work well during the day. As always, your personal dermatologist's advise is best.

Randy J. Buckspan, MD (retired) · Answer

Retin-A and topical Vitamin C are very important for good skin care.  Just use the Retin-A at night and the Vitamin C in the morning - never together.  Also, the addition of a glycolic lotion and sunscreen to your morning regimen would further add to your skin rejuvenation.

Can I use Retin-A and vitamin C at the same time?

Answers (5)

Answer: Best combo: Retin A PM and Vitamin C AM with sunscreen.

Answer: Best combo: Retin A PM and Vitamin C AM with sunscreen.

Answer: Retin-A and Vitamin C work great together

Answer: Retin-A and Vitamin C work great together

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Everything you need to know about Retin-A

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

Can I use Retin-A and vitamin C at the same time?

Answers (5)

Answer: Best combo: Retin A PM and Vitamin C AM with sunscreen.

Answer: Best combo: Retin A PM and Vitamin C AM with sunscreen.

Answer: Retin-A and Vitamin C work great together

Answer: Retin-A and Vitamin C work great together

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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.