How to Use Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid Together

Vitamin C and hyaluronic acid are two of the most well-known—and widely-used—skincare ingredients around. Separately, products with these ingredients can help address a range of concerns, from dullness and dehydration to fine lines and discoloration. Together, their benefits may be even more impressive. 

Though you can’t always combine skincare ingredients (and should, in general, never attempt to do so on your own), hyaluronic acid and vitamin C make for an excellent and effective pairing. If you’re curious about how to layer vitamin C and hyaluronic acid in your skincare routine, keep reading. We’ll share the details ahead and introduce you to a few of our favorite products that contain these skincare superstars. 

What Is Vitamin C?

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), vitamin C—also known as L-ascorbic acid—is a natural antioxidant that helps protect against the damaging effects of free radicals. Our bodies can’t create vitamin C on their own, so we have to get it through the foods we eat—and the skincare products we use. When applied topically, vitamin C can help combat some of the common signs of aging, including fine lines, wrinkles, and laxity. Skincare products with vitamin C can also help improve the appearance of skin discolorations, including dark spots and post-acne marks. 

You can find this powerful ingredient in an array of products, including the L’Oréal Paris RevitaLift Derm Intensives 12% Pure Vitamin C + E + Salicylic Acid Serum. The non-comedogenic serum helps visibly improve uneven skin tone and texture and leaves the skin looking brighter, smoother, and more radiant over time. 

What Is Hyaluronic Acid?

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring molecule that exists within your skin’s natural moisture barrier. It helps keep the skin adequately hydrated and promotes a plump, smooth appearance. As skin ages, the amount of hyaluronic acid in your skin begins to decrease, which can result in a dull or dehydrated appearance. Using hyaluronic acid topically can help boost skin’s hydration and smooth the appearance of fine lines, per the Cleveland Clinic. 

Like vitamin C, hyaluronic acid can be found in a wide range of skincare products, including toners, moisturizers, and serums. If you’re looking for one of the latter, the L’Oréal Paris RevitaLift Derm Intensives 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum is a great pick. It contains 1.5% pure hyaluronic acid and provides intense moisture to leave the skin looking plump, dewy, and hydrated. For your eye area, try the L’Oréal Paris RevitaLift Intensives 1.5% Hyaluronic Acid + 1% Caffeine Serum, which hydrates, de-puffs, and visibly brightens the under-eye area. 

Can You Use Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid Together?

Yes, in most cases, hyaluronic acid and vitamin C can be used together—either simultaneously or at different steps in your skincare routine. As a pair, vitamin C and hyaluronic acid benefit the skin in numerous ways, though the duo is most often used to help combat the visible signs of aging. 

Layering skincare products can feel tricky, so if you’re not sure whether you should use vitamin C or hyaluronic acid first in your routine, we suggest reaching for a product that contains both ingredients. We love the L’Oréal Paris RevitaLift Triple Power Anti-Aging Moisturizer, which contains 1.5% hyaluronic acid alongside vitamin C and pro-retinol. Another great pick, particularly if you’re looking to target the visible signs of aging, is the L’Oréal RevitaLift 10% Pure Vitamin C Serum. It contains hyaluronic acid and 10% vitamin C and helps brighten, smooth, and even the skin within four weeks of use. If you’d rather layer your products, you’ll need to know whether to use hyaluronic acid before or after vitamin C. Ultimately, the right order depends on the products you’re using. Keep scrolling for details on the best approach when layering skincare products.

How To Layer Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid

Layering vitamin C and hyaluronic acid isn’t complicated, but you do want to follow the correct order in order to reap the benefits of both of your products. In general, products should be applied in order of consistency from thinnest to thickest. If you want to use a hyaluronic acid serum and a vitamin C serum, apply the thinner of the two first and let it absorb before smoothing on the second. Then, apply your moisturizer and SPF as usual.

The same principle applies if you’re using different products (for example, a hyaluronic acid serum with a vitamin C moisturizer): the thinner of the two should always go first. 

For a simple routine including both ingredients, try this. First, wash your face with your go-to facial cleanser and pat your skin dry. Next, smooth the aforementioned L’Oréal Paris RevitaLift Derm Intensives 12% Pure Vitamin C + E + Salicylic Acid Serum onto your face and neck, avoiding the eye area. Then, apply your eye cream or serum as usual. Once both sink in, finish up your routine with a hyaluronic acid-infused moisturizer. We love the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Micro Hyaluronic Acid + Ceramides Line-Plumping Water Cream, which is lightweight, non-greasy, and suitable for all skin types. 

How Often Can You Use Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin C?

Generally speaking, both vitamin C and hyaluronic acid are suitable for daily use. However, how often you’ll want to use your products depends on your skin type and the products you’re using. Always refer to the instructions on the package for accurate usage instructions, and contact your dermatologist if you’re still unsure. 

When Should You Use Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid?

When you should apply vitamin C and hyaluronic acid should be guided by the specific products you’re using. Some products are meant only for daytime use; others, for night. And some can be used twice daily as part of both your morning and nighttime skincare routine. Again, you’ll want to refer to the instructions on your chosen products for an accurate read of when to use them. 

To keep the anti-aging benefits going strong, always end your morning routine with a generous application of broad-spectrum sunscreen, like the L’Oréal Paris Bright Reveal Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Daily UV Lotion. Remember to reapply your sunscreen at least every two hours and follow other sun safety measures (like avoiding direct sunlight at midday) to help keep your skin protected. 

Next Up: Can You Use Niacinamide and Retinol Together?

Photo courtesy of L’Oréal Paris