Can You Use Vitamin C & Niacinamide Together?

Niacinamide and vitamin C are two well-known ingredients often featured in skincare formulations. Each plays a unique role in supporting the appearance of even-toned, healthy-looking skin. 

But can you use vitamin C and niacinamide together? In this article, we’ll explore how both ingredients work, which skin concerns they can help address and how to incorporate them together for a balanced routine.

What is niacinamide?

Niacinamide is a type of vitamin B3 that works to support the skin’s barrier function. A key cause of dryness is a weakened barrier that struggles to lock in moisture effectively. Niacinamide helps reinforce this protective layer by boosting the synthesis of ceramides (lipids that hold skin cells together), resulting in improved moisture retention.

Niacinamide also provides antioxidant support, helping the skin defend itself from everyday environmental stressors. It helps reduce the appearance of visible discolouration and encourages collagen production, which can help soften the look of fine lines for a smoother complexion.

What is vitamin C?

Vitamin C is a multitasking antioxidant that contributes to a radiant, even-looking complexion. By neutralising free radicals formed through daily environmental exposure, it helps protect the skin from oxidative stress, which can trigger dullness and premature skin ageing.

When paired with broad-spectrum sun protection, vitamin C can further help reduce the noticeable effects of photoageing. Vitamin C also encourages collagen synthesis for firmer-looking skin. 

How to layer vitamin C and niacinamide

Using niacinamide and vitamin C together can help address multiple skin concerns at once, including uneven tone, dryness, dullness and loss of elasticity. Suitable across a variety of skin types, from dry to oily or combination, this pairing works to support calm, hydrated and visibly refreshed skin over time.

Niacinamide and vitamin C are included in many types of products, including cleansers, treatments and moisturisers. To maximise their benefits, they’re best used in leave-on products such as toners, serums or creams, which allow the ingredients to remain on the skin for longer contact and better absorption.

Here’s a simple way to layer them within your regimen:

• Cleanse — Use a gentle cleanser to eliminate impurities and prepare the skin for active ingredients. A clean surface allows for optimal absorption of subsequent products.
• Apply vitamin C serum — Dispense a few drops of vitamin C serum and smooth it over your face and neck. Let it absorb completely before proceeding to the next step.
• Layer niacinamide — Follow with a niacinamide serum or moisturiser to seal in hydration and help maintain skin resilience.
• Shield with SPF — In the daytime, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) to shield the skin from harmful UV exposure and photoageing.

If you’re wondering when to use vitamin C and niacinamide, the simple answer is that both can fit comfortably into your day or night routine. The choice often comes down to personal preference and how your skincare steps are structured.

Many people prefer to apply them in the morning to fortify the skin’s natural defences against pollution and UV rays. That said, both ingredients can also be used in the evening to replenish and repair the skin overnight.

Preparing your skin for new ingredients

Performing a patch test is crucial when adding new ingredients like vitamin C or niacinamide into your routine. Apply a small amount of the new product to a discreet area, such as behind the ear or along the jawline, and wait 24 hours before full application. If your skin remains calm and comfortable, you can begin incorporating it into your regimen gradually. Try a few times per week at first, then increase frequency as tolerated.

It's important to give your skin time to adjust. Start by introducing one new product at a time so you can observe how your skin responds. This helps decrease the risk of irritation and makes it easier to identify any sensitivities.

Remember that every skin type responds differently to skincare, and noticeable improvements may take time. Consistent use allows the skin to adapt optimally to the products.

Enhance your skincare ritual with Medik8’s targeted formulations

Knowing how to use vitamin C and niacinamide together can unlock extensive visible benefits for your skin. At Medik8, we offer niacinamide and vitamin C formulations designed to work in harmony with your skin.

From our brightening serums to our ceramide-rich night cream, each product is crafted to support specific skin goals, whether that's repair, luminosity or rejuvenation. Our formulas have undergone long-term clinical trials, ensuring precise and consistent performance across skin types. Explore our product range or reach out to our team for personalised guidance on building a routine that evolves with your skin’s needs.

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