“When pairing them, vitamin C should always go first, as it absorbs quickly and works best on clean skin,' says Dr Sonavane. “Then apply kojic acid on top to boost the brightening effects.” This also helps protect the skin barrier.
You can use Kojic Acid & Vitamin C together but make sure you follow an AM-PM routine. Use Vitamin C in the morning followed up by a sunscreen and Kojic Acid at night before going to bed.
One compatible ingredient that can be used with Kojic acid is Vitamin C. When combined, this blend of these active ingredients can boost the skin's brightening and antioxidant effects. Vitamin C helps to further inhibit melanin production and promote collagen.
You just need to know how to apply them correctly as a combination. For the best results, dermatologists recommend applying your vitamin C serum first. Let it dry so your skin has the opportunity to absorb the ascorbic acid, and then move on to the niacinamide product.
Generally speaking, the best time to apply vitamin C serum is in the morning, after cleansing and toning your complexion, and before moisturizer and SPF. If you want to maximize the perks, and don't have overly sensitive skin, you can apply it in the morning and evening.
To layer vitamin C and hyaluronic acid serums, always apply vitamin C first to cleansed, dry skin. Be sure to leave time for your vitamin C to sink in, then follow up with your hyaluronic acid. A prime example of vitamin C and hyaluronic acid joining forces is Lancôme's Advanced Génifique.
Vitamin C should be applied after cleansing, especially if you're using a Vit-C product that's in a serum or dropper format, as you should always apply your textures in order from lightest to heaviest. Apply your Hyaluronic Acid serum/cream next.
What Goes First: Hydroquinone or Vitamin C. Vitamin C goes first, followed by hydroquinone if the former is in serum and the latter in a moisturizer. It's important to let your skin dry after using vitamin C serum and before hydroquinone cream.
Vitamin C can help lighten dark spots and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Retinol slows the breakdown of collagen and increases elasticity, giving you skin that looks firmer and plumper. The combination can help even out the texture and tone of your skin.
On the other hand, certain ingredients can trigger irritation and should be avoided if you're using kojic acid in your skincare routine. Harsh acids, like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), are a prime example, as well as certain retinoids.
Conclusion. The expert suggested that kojic acid is suitable for nearly all skin types and may work more effectively for pigmentation and dark spots. It usually does not cause acne or irritation. However, how you use it may depend on your personal preference and skin needs.
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Layering Like a Pro
To get the most out of this power couple, it's all about layering. Start with a product that contains kojic acid, let it absorb, then follow up with a niacinamide serum or moisturizer. This way, each ingredient gets its moment to shine.
Salicylic acid
It is an exfoliating agent that removes dark spots and acne-causing bacteria along with dead skin cells that can lead to pigmentation.
Serum: Apply your kojic acid serum. If you're using other serums (like hyaluronic acid or Vitamin C), apply kojic acid after those, as it's best to layer your products from thinnest to thickest. Moisturize: Follow up with a nourishing moisturizer to seal in the benefits of kojic acid and keep your skin hydrated.
Kojic acid captures copper ions, preventing the activation of tyrosinase, thus preventing the formation of melanin [12,14]. Due to its tyrosinase-inhibiting activity, KA is considered one of the most effective skin lightening agents in the beauty industry [15].
Hydroquinone and Vitamin C: It is possible that the use of both hydroquinone and vitamin C together can work to reduce sun damage. While vitamin C protects the skin from damage, hydroquinone penetrates layers of the skin to remove signs of prolonged hyperpigmentation.
Discoloration Defense should be used by applying 3-5 drops to the face twice daily. Morning applications of this serum for dark spots should be applied after SkinCeuticals vitamin C serum and before SkinCeuticals broad spectrum sunscreen.
Vitamin C is effectively an acid (it's sometimes known as ascorbic acid), so layering it with AHAs and BHAs like glycolic, salicylic, and lactic acids is a big no-no.
For maximum absorption, serums should be applied to freshly cleansed skin. Apply the thinnest facial serum first, or, if serums are the same consistency, start by addressing your primary skin concern. Massage a few drops into the skin, then wait until absorbed before applying your secondary serum.
Apply a thin layer: Take a small amount of hydroquinone and apply it as a thin layer all over the face - if applied to small affected areas it can lead to a halo effect. Massage gently: Use your fingertips to gently massage the hydroquinone into your skin until it is fully absorbed.
Most vitamin C serums are best applied after cleansing and before the remainder of your routine, but this is mostly governed by how viscous (or not) your product is. Use common sense and apply from thin to thick.
After rinsing off your cleanser, simply massage your hyaluronic acid serum first on damp skin and allow it to soak in. Once dry, top with your vitamin C serum and finish off with a moisturizer.