How to use a vitamin C serumUpdated a year ago
Here’s how to use a vitamin C serum in conjunction with the rest of your skincare routine!
Step 1: Start clean and refreshed
Before applying your vitamin C serum, start with clean, fresh skin. In the morning, we suggest you just splash your face with water. If you’re feeling dehydrated, take your time to soak your skin thoroughly, instead!
Do you have to cleanse your skin before using vitamin C? We don’t think so, especially if you’re using a vitamin C serum as your daytime protector. You can wash your face if you feel like you need to, but it’s not mandatory (and overwashing can actually be very irritating!)
Step 2: Apply your serum
With your skin still damp, apply your vitamin C serum.
You don’t need much - with the Protocol Vitamin C Superserum, a single pump is enough for the face, neck, and maybe even your chest or back of your hands (all of which deserve the extra love!).
Dispense a bit of serum in your hands, and then massage or pat it in gently. Rubbing can feel nice and stimulating, but “tapping” it in is better if your skin is feeling sensitive.
Step 3: Add needed moisture
Once the vitamin C sinks into your skin, you get to decide for yourself - do you want to moisturize?
We’re big believers in listening to your skin. Maybe your nighttime routine is already super moisturizing, or perhaps your sunscreen is creamy and hydrating. If that’s the case, dive straight into the final step.
On the other hand, if you often wake up feeling a little tight and dry, apply a moisturizing serum or cream.
Step 4: Sunscreen is a must
Finally, it’s time for the queen of all skincare routines: Sunscreen! Again, this is assuming you’re applying your vitamin C serum in the daytime.
Make sure your skin has fully absorbed your vitamin C serum and other products you’ve used. Otherwise, those other products may compromise your sunscreen’s film-forming abilities.
To get the full level of protection, use at least 2 mg of sunscreen per square cm of skin. That works out to about a ¼ teaspoon for the face. Massage it in, and voila - you’ll be ready to face the day, with your SPF bolstered by your vitamin C!