What is "Morning C, Night A"?
The skincare routine "Morning C, Night A" involves using Vitamin C products in the morning and Vitamin A (retinoids) products in the evening. This combination provides antioxidant protection during the day and anti-aging repair at night.
Benefits of Vitamin C in the Morning
Dermatologist Dr. David Orentreich points out, "Using Vitamin C products daily can significantly enhance the skin's self-repair ability, repair damage from environmental factors, and fade acne scars while promoting the natural production of collagen."
During the day, high levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation cause the skin to produce a large number of free radicals. Vitamin C has strong reducing properties and acts as photoprotection when UV rays are present. It functions like a shield, protecting the skin from UV-induced immunosuppression and inhibiting the production of melanin in the skin. Additionally, Vitamin C stimulates the production of collagen, helping to strengthen the skin and making it look firm, smooth, and elastic.
Benefits of Vitamin A at Night
Vitamin A is regarded by dermatologists as an excellent anti-aging ingredient because retinol can promote skin cell renewal, stimulate the shedding of old skin cells, and improve skin texture and tone.
Vitamin A acts as an exfoliant, helping to normalise oil secretion. Its exfoliating properties aid in preventing clogged pores, making it suitable for combating hyperpigmentation and improving skin texture. Additionally, it stimulates the production of collagen in the dermis, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, and improving and thickening the skin. This reduces the chances of existing collagen and elastin being degraded.
Usage Tips
- Introduce Gradually: Start with 2-3 times a week and increase frequency as tolerated.
- Sun Protection: Use at least SPF 30+ sunscreen with Vitamin C in the morning to maximise its effectiveness. Additionally, Vitamin A increases the skin's sensitivity to UV rays, so it is crucial to apply sunscreen diligently to prevent darkening of the skin.
- Never layer similar products: Such as Vitamin C toner and serum, as this won't enhance effectiveness and may damage your skin. In the "Morning C, Night A" routine, avoid combining with acids like BHA and AHA, as they can increase skin sensitivity and be too harsh, damaging the skin barrier. Besides Vitamin C and A, it's best to use minimal, low-irritation skincare products.
- Moisturise: Vitamin A has oil-controlling and exfoliating properties, which can cause skin dryness. When starting Vitamin A, skin may become dry or peel, so it's important to enhance hydration regardless of skin type. Use moisturising products to prevent water loss and dryness, which can prematurely age the skin. Dr. Robert Paull suggests applying a layer of moisturiser after washing your face, followed by Vitamin A, and then another layer of moisturiser. Studies show that a moisturiser base helps improve skin tolerance to Vitamin A without reducing its efficiency.
Precautions
- Avoid High Concentrations Initially: Begin with lower concentrations to build tolerance.
- Store Properly: Keep Vitamin C products away from light to prevent degradation.
- Do Not Layer Similar Products: Avoid combining with other strong actives like acids to prevent irritation.
- Damaged Skin Barrier: Avoid using it, as it can worsen skin damage.
- Pregnant women: Avoid using it, as Vitamin A can potentially harm the baby.