Is it possible to utilize vitamin C following the AHA?
It is very evident that acids, especially those in the AHA and BHA families, are popular in the skin care industry among many people. With their capacity to eliminate dead skin cells, unclogging pores, reviving a dull complexion, or combating discoloration, it’s no surprise we have a product or two that contain these powerhouses in our skincare regimen.
Another ingredient that has a positive reputation associated with it is vitamin C, which has been around for a long time in the beauty industry. When it was first introduced, it was considered to have a unstable composition that would lead to some irritation on the skin when combined with other chemicals. With modern technology and new research, this is no longer true, which means that people are now receiving more benefits than ever before.
The query we are left with is whether or not you can utilize vitamin C following the AHA. We will discuss this in greater detail, but before we get involved, I’ll give you a short description of the benefits of these ingredients and how they affect the skin.
What is vitamin C?
Famous for its capacity to battle areas of excessive pigmentation, dark patches, age spots, and sun damage.
Packed with anti-aging nutrients that help to shield the skin from the free radical exposure that results from pollution, ultraviolet light, central heating, and other environmental adversaries.
Facilitates the reduction of areas of dry, dull, and patchy skin.
Increases the production of collagen, and targets the signs of aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity.
There is more to learn about the vitamin C article on our dedicated blog post, so be sure to check that out.
What are the AHAs?
Also known as alpha hydroxy acids, AHAs are a group of chemical compounds that exfoliate.
The most common and most recognized AHAs, are glycolic acid, lactic acid, and citric acid.
There are numerous different types of acids with different molecular weights that all have a similar effect on the skin, each providing their own unique advantages.
The exfoliation of these acids facilitates the removal of the bonds that attach the dead skin cells to the surface, this leaves the complexion appearing dull and lackluster.
They assist in the targeting of areas of concern, including hyperpigmentation, the signs of aging, and problematic skin, such as acne and blemishes.
A dedicated blog article about AHAs is available, this will explain the mechanism by which they operate on the skin, so read it to learn more.
Should I begin with AHA or with vitamin C?
Many skin care experts advocate applying an AHA prior to the application of your vitamin C product. This will lead to the greatest degree of success. This is because the acid will eradicate the accumulation of dead skin cells that often form a barrier on the skin’s surface. Once this is excised, you will find that your vitamin C product will take up quickly and effectively.
The process involves the alteration of pH levels, which are connected to the skin’s pH and how they can affect the pH of the skin, which is typically more basic. Once you’ve applied an acid that is typically between 3.0 and 4.0, you’re creating the best environment to apply your vitamin C, also called L-ascorbic acid. It’s vital to remain cognizant of the fact that the skin can become hurtful and lack the essential oil necessary for health. This is why it’s beneficial to talk to a dermatologist or medical professional about the best ingredients to use and the best way to experience the best results on your skin.
Is it possible to utilize vitamin C following the removal of the epidermis?
Yes, you is certainly capable! What you may discover is that when using a high percentage of vitamin C in the application of it after exfoliation, the active ingredient will be increased and the overall appearance and feel of the complexion will be enhanced. The skin will have a more firm texture, and areas that are concerned with pigmentation, and dark spots will be reduced visibly.
If you are seated here and unsure if vitamin C exfoliates the skin, the answer is negative. However, it does have the effect of increasing the skin’s cell turnover, this increases the number of new, fresh cells that reach the surface. This infers how vitamin C has been attributed to having a bright, healthy, and radiant appearance on the skin.
Those with sensitive skin may believe that exfoliation with a chemical or physical process is too harsh and will experience a rise in inflammation, redness, and increased dryness. This can be avoided if you chose lactic acid as your exfoliant, this is one of the most mildAHAs. You should then wait for at least 30 minutes before applying your serum with vitamin C. Ultimately, finish off with a serum or moisturizer that contains hyaluronic acid in it, this will help to lock in hydration to the skin and decrease the likelihood of having dry or irritated skin. For additional cautionary measures, you can also conduct a patch test for 24 hours before applying any substance to your skin. This will assist you in determining if your skin will be happy with the actives applied to it, specifically if you’ve never used these ingredients before.
Is it possible to utilize vitamin C following BHA?
Actually, this is due to the different capabilities of BHAs and AHAs on the skin. You’ll find BHAs, the most popular of which is salicylic acid, this acid is more effective at entering the skin. It is able to do this due to the smaller molecular weight compared to an AHA. This guarantees that salicylic acid and other BHAs will have a high degree of effectiveness if applied to a skin that is oily and has blemishes, as they will enter the pores and expel the excess sebum, dirt, bacteria, and other detritus.
Despite its effectiveness, BHAs are infamously potent, if you overilayer vitamin C on the skin, you will experience significant irritation, redness, increased sensitivity, and dryness. To have the greatest effect without experiencing any side effects, I would advise you to alternate the way you apply each active ingredient. Begin your morning regimen with vitamin C as its antioxidant properties will shield the skin from the daily stress of oxidization. This will follow the evening’s proceedings with BHA, such as salicylic acid, to achieve a deeper effect in the lower layers and have no concerns while you sleep.
Remember that if you have any concerns about combining specific ingredients, talk to your GP or a dermatologist. Also don’t hesitate to contact us via Instagram, one of our members is always available to respond to any questions about skincare.
DQH Knowledge drop: In your 20s, your skin cell turnover decreases. (Cell turnover is a key component in keeping your skin youthful.) You know what else slows down? Your collagen production. Starting in your 20s, collagen decreases by about 1 percent per year. Should you want to prevent fine lines and wrinkles, start by eliminating behaviors that contribute to premature aging. “If it’s bad for you, it’s bad for your skin,” says dermatologist Michel Somenek.
“Cigarette smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and causes premature wrinkling and a dull skin texture. Making the repeated pursed motion to inhale can also cause smoker’s lines. Alcohol and recreational drugs are toxins for the skin that damage its cellular structure and DNA,” Somenek tells us. “The faster you eliminate vices while you are young, the better chance your skin and body have to recuperate.” Also, adopting an anti-aging routine in your 20s is key. After all, the best offense is a good defense. We spoke to Somenek and experts Joshua Ross and Audrey Kunin to find out more.
Keep reading for the best anti-aging products for your 20s, according to skincare professionals.
Sunscreen
“We all know that the sun is the number one cause of skin aging and starting the prevention in your 20s is very important,” Ross says. “The majority of your sun damage won’t start to appear until you’re in your 30s, so don’t wait until you see it surface or you’ll be behind the curve. Stay ahead of it with a good-quality zinc-based sunscreen worn daily.”
Farmacy Green Defense Daily Mineral Sunscreen
An invisible sunscreen with SPF 30, plus botanical extracts meant to protect skin with tons of antioxidants. Bonus: It’s clean and fine to use under makeup.
Bareminerals Complexion Rescue™ Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30
Although we recommend you use your SPF and moisturizer separately, we also understand moments when you don’t have time or energy for that extra step. For those times, this bareMinerals moisturizer is a great thing to have on hand.
Vitamin C Serum
“A great introduction to anti-aging is to start with a vitamin C serum in your morning skincare routine,” Ross says. “It’s a powerful antioxidant that will neutralize free radicals and brighten the skin.” He adds that it’s a great way to counteract the effects of the sun’s harmful rays, which, as previously mentioned, are among the biggest causes of premature aging.
Drunk Elephant C-Firma™ Vitamin C Day Serum
The Drunk Elephant C-Firma is a lightweight serum that promises to give skin a glow by combining the brightening powers of vitamin C with ferulic acid, l-ascorbic acid, and vitamin E. The included sodium hyaluronate is meant to replace hydration loss, so you shouldn’t have to deal with any irritation.
Sunday Riley C.E.O. Rapid Flash Brightening Serum
This potent serum is jam-packed with vitamin C (15 percent, to be exact), which means it’s a potential superstar at both brightening skin and dousing it in antioxidants.
Peptides
Using peptides on your skin has many benefits, says Somenek. “The skin barrier is what defends the body against pollution, UV rays, bacteria, and toxins. It can be damaged by several everyday factors. Using topical peptides aids in building a stronger barrier,” he says. “Peptides comprise elastic fibers, which are a type of protein. These fibers help to make skin appear taut and firm. Peptides can also help repair damaged skin, relieve inflammation, and even out skin tone. Some peptides can kill acne-causing bacteria that is common in 20-somethings.”
Kunin agrees, saying, “Peptides are an excellent entry point for supporting collagen.” She recommends looking for face and eye treatments that contain these collagen-boosting powerhouses.
Charlotte Tilbury Magic Eye Rescue Cream
This Charlotte Tilbury super-emollient eye cream has a base of coconut oil and shea butter (read: it’s incredibly hydrating). Botanicals plus peptides are meant to help reduce dark circles and boost collagen, respectively.
This creamy moisturizer serves up potent collagen-boosting peptides and pycnogenol, and antioxidant-rich vitamin C. “Instead of sitting on top of the skin, peptides penetrate the outer layer so they go deep. The ‘signals’ they send tell the cells to produce elastin and collagen, which are needed for youthful-looking skin,” explains Somenek.
At-Home Peel Pads
Remember that skin cell turnover fiasco we talked about earlier? One way to help support it is by exfoliating. “Exfoliation is important to help keep skin fresh and luminous,” Kunin says. She recommends using at-home peel pads as an easy and effective way to exfoliate.
“The goal in your 20s is to fight the slowing pace of cell turnover. It is wise to use products that gently exfoliate, yet still remove oil and other impurities. Products that have Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) are a good choice.”
According to Somenek, you should only exfoliate two to three times a week. “People of all ages are guilty of over-exfoliating and that can be too much of a good thing,” he says.
Dermadoctor Kakadu C Intensive Vitamin C Peel Pad
A few swipes of this Derma Doctor powerful peel pad promise to leave your skin glowing and smooth, thanks to the seven (yes, seven) types of chemical exfoliants, including AHA and BHA. It also contains vitamin C via Kakadu plum extract for added brightening and antioxidant protection.
KEY INGREDIENTS Kakadu plum extract is sourced from the Kakadu plum, a fruit grown in northern Australia. It contains vitamin C, which restores the skin’s natural barrier, increases collagen production, and soothes irritation.
Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta® Universal Daily Peel Pads
These are the gold standard of peel pads, with a cult following and over 900 five-star reviews on Sephora. They’re easy to use and contain a blend of anti-aging exfoliating acids.
Emollient Night Cream
“In your 20s, you need to start upping the hydration in your skincare routine. You may have been cautious of over-moisturizing because of acne in your teens, but as you enter your 20s, your skin transitions and becomes drier,” Ross says. “I recommend an emollient night cream added into your evening skincare regimen.”
“Twenty-somethings need to make sure that they are not using creams that will clog their pores and cause excess oil production,” says Somenek. Opt for non-comedogenic products.
Cerave Skin Renewing Night Cream
One great choice is the CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream, which is a non-comedogenic night cream that leaves skin soft and glowy. It combines the moisturizing powers of ceramides and hyaluronic acid.
RoC Retinol Correxion Max Hydration Creme
“The best night cream ingredients contain retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and/or salicylic acid or hyaluronic acid. The goal is to moisturize, yet remove excess oil,” says Somenek. This Roc Retinol Correxion cream fits the bill as it contains both hyaluronic acid and retinol so it promises to moisturize while also being non-comedogenic.