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Can I Use Retina A and Vitamin C at the Same Time?

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?

Doctor Answers 3

Retin-A and Vitamin C work great together

September 10th, 2010
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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.

Randy J. Buckspan, MD


Austin Plastic Surgeon
4.6 out of 5 stars 9 reviews

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

September 6th, 2010
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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.

Web reference: http://www.drmarylupo.com

Mary P. Lupo, MD

Mary P. Lupo, MD
New Orleans Dermatologist
5.0 out of 5 stars 14 reviews

Retin A and Vitamin C

September 6th, 2010
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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.

Steven Hacker, MD

Steven Hacker, MD
West Palm Beach Dermatologic Surgeon
5.0 out of 5 stars 4 reviews

These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.