Adapalene + Vitamin C

Can you use Adapalene with Vitamin C?

Yes, with timing

Yes, with timing. Use vitamin C in the morning and Adapalene at night.

Why

There is no dangerous interaction, but both can irritate. Vitamin C suits the morning because it is an antioxidant that backs up sunscreen. Adapalene suits the night because retinoids can break down in light and work while you sleep.

How to use them together

  1. AM: vitamin C serum, moisturizer, sunscreen.
  2. PM: Adapalene, then moisturizer.
  3. If both feel fine after a few weeks, keep going. If not, use vitamin C fewer days.

Who should be careful

Sensitive skin and new retinoid users should introduce one product at a time.

About the ingredients

Adapalene: A synthetic retinoid (Differin) for acne, available over the counter at 0.1% in the US. It is more chemically stable than tretinoin, including next to benzoyl peroxide.

Vitamin C: An antioxidant (L-ascorbic acid and derivatives) used for brightening and protection against UV-related oxidative stress. Pure L-ascorbic acid serums are acidic and can sting.

FAQ

Can I use Adapalene and Vitamin C together?

Yes, with timing. Use vitamin C in the morning and Adapalene at night.

Should I use Adapalene or Vitamin C in the morning or at night?

AM: vitamin C serum, moisturizer, sunscreen. PM: Adapalene, then moisturizer.

Who should be careful combining Adapalene and Vitamin C?

Sensitive skin and new retinoid users should introduce one product at a time.

What if my skin gets irritated using Adapalene and Vitamin C?

Stop the stronger active, keep a gentle cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen, and reintroduce one product at a time once skin calms down. See a dermatologist if irritation persists.

Sources

Studies and reviews on these ingredients and, where available, on this specific combination.

  1. A review of adapalene in the treatment of acne vulgaris. J Adolesc Health. 2008;43(5).
  2. Martin B, et al. Chemical stability of adapalene and tretinoin when combined with benzoyl peroxide in presence and in absence of visible light and ultraviolet radiation. Br J Dermatol. 1998;139 Suppl 52:8-11.
  3. Pullar JM, Carr AC, Vissers MCM. The roles of vitamin C in skin health. Nutrients. 2017;9(8):866.
  4. Al-Niaimi F, Chiam NYZ. Topical vitamin C and the skin: mechanisms of action and clinical applications. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2017;10(7):14-17.

Last reviewed: . Not medical advice.

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