I’m getting conflicting advice. A few dermatologists claim it isn’t vital, while others insist on daily application. 
9 Likes
I traded my vitamin C for a copper peptide formula from Allies of Skin, and the results have been way better.
1 Like
Vitamin C hasn’t really done much for me, and I believe the popular versions actually aggravated my rosacea and damaged my skin barrier. I currently use products containing it, but not as the primary active. Dr. Loretta’s version is fine and seems to reduce redness, but Obagi and the standard C + ferulic combos just didn’t work for my skin type.
Using an antioxidant is key in my opinion, but Vitamin C isn’t the only option. You might want to check out products featuring glutathione instead.
I started using it again because my new dermatologist recommended morning application, and I recently came across some supporting info online. My rosacea is finally managed thanks to a custom cream from my doctor. Study Examines How Vitamin C Shapes Skin Health Through TET-Mediated Demethylation | Pharmacy Times The results aren’t instant, though I have seen a bit of a glow. I also use injectable copper GHK-Cu.
Vitamin C is a no-go for me; it ruined my skin barrier and made my postpartum rosacea worse. I’m aware many others have had the same experience.
I’ve been pondering this myself. I’ve been on a medical-grade vitamin C for two months now and haven’t seen any changes. I was looking for brightening and fading of sun damage, but it’s mostly just making my skin dry. I’m considering switching to a different type of antioxidant.
My derm suggests applying vitamin C every morning before SPF. I use Skinceuticals Phloretin CF; despite having type 2 rosacea and eczema, I haven’t had any irritation and love how it brightens my skin. My routine also includes Geek and Gorgeous Power Peptides, 0.025% tretinoin, and 15% azelaic acid daily. At my age, I’m happy for any extra support! updated with more info
I had to quit using vitamin C. My skin doesn’t tolerate LAA or THD. Fortunately, I can use other antioxidants just fine. Ingredients like CoQ10, green tea (EGCG), resveratrol, niacinamide, Vitamin E, and glutathione are very soothing for me. I know LAA is great for collagen if it penetrates deep enough, so I tried hard to find a formula that worked, but I’ve realized I can get similar results from retinol/tretinoin and glycolic acid. Good for those who can use it, and I’m relieved I’m not the only one who can’t. 
1 Like
I’m a big fan of the Doctor Rogers vitamin C serum for daytime protection. It even helped heal a sunburn I got on the 4th of July.
I’m obsessed with vitamin C. I’ve stuck with the Skinceuticals version for more than 15 years. Even when I try other brands, I always come back to it. I really notice a difference when I stop using it—my skin just looks healthier with it.
The primary goal of these serums is collagen protection rather than intensive treatment. If you check the CE Ferulic packaging, ‘Prevent’ is actually highlighted at the top. They are designed for prevention. For general brightening, I’ve found that retinoids work much better for my specific skin needs.
2 Likes
Is Vitamin C a must? Not necessarily. But a solid daytime antioxidant is. Vitamin C is powerful and boosts sunscreen efficacy, but L-ascorbic acid is notoriously unstable and can actually become a pro-oxidant, which is harmful. I use Alastin C-Radical because it uses a gentler derivative that works well for my rosacea. However, it’s pricey, so I might switch to Dieux Deliverance, which is C-free but very soothing for rosacea. Since antioxidants are vital for my condition, I’m still weighing my long-term options.
I definitely see a change when I cut it out of my routine. The brand matters a lot; Vanicream and Vichy are my top picks so far.
Not really. I’ve stopped using vitamin C and my skin is better for it. It can provide a nice glow, though—I use a hyaluronic essence with a mild C derivative that adds some luminosity. But it’s not a necessity. I personally prefer other antioxidants like Astaxanthin or resveratrol.