😂😂😂 You might be the best skincare/beauty blogger I've come across in a while. 😂😂😂
But in all honesty I can’t say I know many men that use Vitamin C serum and/or Retinol, you deserve an award 🏆
Are you using them together?
I use both as well, but I was always told to alternate them because:
1. **Potential for Irritation**
Both Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and retinol (a form of vitamin A) are potent ingredients that can cause skin irritation, especially when used together (probably not as intense as your oregano oil though 🫣). I know for some people, using both simultaneously can result in redness, dryness, and peeling.
2. **pH Levels**
Vitamin C is most effective in a low pH environment (acidic), whereas retinol is more effective in a higher pH environment (neutral to slightly acidic). Using them together can potentially make either the vitamin C or retinol less effective due to competing pH levels.
Like I said, I use both as well, but if you're want to try alternating, there are two methods to consider:
1. **Alternate Use in the Same Day**
One common approach is to use Vitamin C in the morning and retinol in the evening. NOTE: If you do this, my dermatologist strongly recommends using sunscreen to avoid causing other issues. Personally, I don't like having sunscreen on my face all day - every day, so I don't incorporate either into my morning routine.
2. **Alternate Use Every Other Day**
Another approach is to use Vitamin C in the evening on M/W/F and retinol in the evening on T/T/S, taking Sunday off as a day of rest.
