While there are a number of skincare ingredients that may be beneficial for blemish-prone skin, we’re guessing you’re here because you want to know how to use vitamin C for acne, specifically. Your queries relating to this hero ingredient probably range from whether it's suitable for acneic skin to if it helps with breakouts – and we've got the expert answers.
Perhaps after sunscreen, the best vitamin C serums are often cited as one of the key pillars of a simple and effective skincare routine . With this in mind, as part of this woman&home guide we asked two consultant dermatologists for some of their expert insights into using vitamin C when you have acne-prone skin. If that's you, here’s what you need to know about using this ingredient in your skincare routine.
How to use vitamin C for acne, according to experts
How does vitamin C benefit skin?
This ingredient is something of a powerhouse in terms of skin benefits. Our full guide to what vitamin C does for skin explains these in more detail, but its effects include improving radiance, evening out skin tone and improving skin’s firmness and elasticity, among others.
“[It] is useful as an antioxidant to protect the skin from environmental damage and for helping regulate pigmentation,” says consultant dermatologist Dr. Justine Kluk , founder of the Clear Skin Programme . Indeed, because of its many benefits, in our experience most dermatologists will recommend including a vitamin C serum in one's skincare routine.
Can I use vitamin C when I have acne?
Generally, vitamin C isn’t considered a “must avoid” if you have acne or acne-prone skin (though it is worth noting that, while you can use vitamin C for sensitive skin , it does have the potential to irritate).
“Vitamin C is an antioxidant skincare ingredient that helps reduce inflammation and uneven pigmentation,” says consultant dermatologist Dr. Thivi Maruthappu , author of Skin Food: Your 4-Step Solution Healthy, Happy Skin . “As such, it is a useful ingredient to have [in your skincare routine] if you experience acne; it can help to reduce redness and tackle post-inflammatory pigmentation and post-acne marks.”
Dr. Kluk agrees, noting that, while vitamin C is not an acne treatment, it can help to reduce the appearance of any dark marks left behind by blemishes. This is also referred to as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).
How to start using vitamin C
If you’re hoping to factor vitamin C into a skincare routine for acne , there are a few things to be aware of before you slather it onto your skin. Firstly, experiencing some sensitivity towards vitamin C is pretty common because it’s a powerful active skincare ingredient (I myself find a lot of vitamin C serums can irritate my skin). Because of this, it’s especially important to do a patch test before widespread use.
Another important step is to ensure the formulation is suitable for blemish- or acne-prone skin. Dr. Maruthappu says to make sure that the formula is non-comedogenic – this term means an ingredient or formula won’t clog your pores.
While vitamin C can be used in the morning or at night, experts usually recommend daytime use because of its antioxidant benefits, meaning it provides some environmental protection. Many people with blemish-prone skin also use vitamin A and, though they can be used together, their potency means it’s sensible to use them at different times of day (usually vitamin C in the morning and A in the evening). As part of a skincare routine for acne , a vitamin C serum should be applied to clean, dry skin after your best cleanser and before moisturiser.
Garnier Vitamin C Anti-Dark Spot Brightening Serum
RRP: £12.99
With a vitamin C derivative alongside niacinamide and salicylic acid – a great ingredient for blemish-prone skin – this affordable serum from high street hero Garnier works to tackle multiple skin concerns.
La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C10 Serum
RRP: £45
A brand that has the backing of dermatologists around the world, La Roche-Posay's C10 Serum also contains blemish-busting salicylic acid (and is one of Dr. Maruthappu's favourite formulas).
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Serum
RRP: £98
Arguably one of the most famous vitamin C serums on the market, SkinCeuticals' high-end offering is a very potent formula that pairs L-ascorbic acid with vitamin E and ferulic acid for a multi-pronged approach to tackling some of the key visible signs of ageing.
While it’s always important to introduce a new skincare product to your regime gradually, particularly when you have an inflammatory skin condition like acne, it is possible to use vitamin C if this is the case. Take time to find a formula that works for you and hopefully you’ll be reaping its benefits in no time.
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