The best time to apply vitamin C serum is generally in the morning. When used under your sunscreen, it acts as an antioxidant shield, helping to protect your skin from environmental damage caused by free radicals from UV rays and pollution throughout the day. You can use it in the evening if you prefer, but morning use offers the added benefit of daytime protection.

It's generally recommended to use vitamin C serum and retinol at different times of the day to avoid potential irritation and maximise their individual benefits. Apply vitamin C in the morning and retinol in the evening. If you choose to use them in the same routine, apply vitamin C first, allow it to fully absorb (10-15 minutes), then apply retinol. However, separating them is often easier and safer, especially for sensitive skin.

Visible results from consistent vitamin C serum use typically take time. You might start noticing improvements in skin brightness and texture within 4-6 weeks. More significant changes, like a reduction in hyperpigmentation or fine lines, usually become apparent after 8-12 weeks of regular, daily application. Patience and consistency are key.

No, vitamin C serum does not inherently make your skin more sensitive to the sun. In fact, its antioxidant properties help protect your skin from sun-induced damage. However, it is still crucial to always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 after using vitamin C serum during the day. This provides the best possible defence against UV radiation and prevents damage that vitamin C aims to correct.

For beginners or those with sensitive skin, starting with a lower concentration (5-10% L-Ascorbic Acid) is advisable. As your skin adjusts, you can gradually increase to a mid-range concentration of 10-15%. For experienced users seeking more potent results, concentrations of 15-20% can be effective. Avoid going much higher than 20%, as the benefits tend to plateau, and the risk of irritation increases.