Can you use Vitamin C with Vitamin E?
Yes. Vitamin C and Vitamin E are a proven antioxidant pairing.
Why
Vitamins C and E recycle each other as antioxidants. Lin et al. (2005) showed that adding ferulic acid to a vitamin C and E solution stabilized it and doubled its photoprotection compared with C and E alone. This trio is the basis of several well-known serums.
How to use them together
- Use a combined serum or layer them in the morning: thinner, water-based product first.
- Follow with moisturizer and sunscreen.
Who should be careful
Pure L-ascorbic acid serums are acidic and can sting. People with very sensitive skin, rosacea or eczema should patch test new products first.
About the ingredients
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.
Vitamin E: A fat-soluble antioxidant (tocopherol) common in moisturizers and antioxidant serums. It can rarely cause contact allergy.
FAQ
Can I use Vitamin C and Vitamin E together?
Yes. Vitamin C and Vitamin E are a proven antioxidant pairing.
Should I use Vitamin C or Vitamin E in the morning or at night?
Use a combined serum or layer them in the morning: thinner, water-based product first. Follow with moisturizer and sunscreen.
Who should be careful combining Vitamin C and Vitamin E?
Pure L-ascorbic acid serums are acidic and can sting. People with very sensitive skin, rosacea or eczema should patch test new products first.
Do I need sunscreen with Vitamin C and Vitamin E?
Yes. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is recommended with any active skincare routine.
Sources
Studies and reviews on these ingredients and, where available, on this specific combination.
- Lin FH, et al. Ferulic acid stabilizes a solution of vitamins C and E and doubles its photoprotection of skin. J Invest Dermatol. 2005;125(4):826-832.
- Pullar JM, Carr AC, Vissers MCM. The roles of vitamin C in skin health. Nutrients. 2017;9(8):866.
- 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.
- Keen MA, Hassan I. Vitamin E in dermatology. Indian Dermatol Online J. 2016;7(4):311-315.
Related combinations
- Can you use Retinol with Vitamin C?
- Can you use Vitamin C with Niacinamide?
- Can you use Tretinoin with Vitamin C?
- Can you use Vitamin C with Salicylic Acid?
- Can you use Vitamin C with Hyaluronic Acid?
- Can you use Vitamin C with Glycolic Acid?
- Can you use Vitamin C with Benzoyl Peroxide?
- Can you use Vitamin C with Sunscreen?