Dr Dennis Gross Vitamin C Lactic 15% Vitamin C Firm & Bright Serum
With a 15 percent concentration of ultra-potent vitamin C, this all-over skin serum helps to firm skin, even tone, and decrease the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots. In addition to complexion-refining lactic acid, this lightweight fluid also contains licorice and mulberry extracts to provide additional brightening benefits.
Its designed to work with your Alpha Beta Daily Peel, so you can apply this serum directly after your peel. Since the second step of the Alpha Beta Daily Peel neutralizes the acids in the first step and effectively shuts them off, you dont need to worry that the lactic acid in Dr. Dennis Gross Vitamin C Lactic 15% Vitamin C Firm & Bright Serum is going to mean youre adding acid on top of acids and end up with a wildly irritated complexion. However, the high level of vitamin C in the serum could cause a slight tingling sensation upon initial application until your skin gets acclimated to the ingredient.
Can You Use Lactic Acid And Vitamin C Together
Yes and no, vitamin C is a powerhouse ingredient and is widely adored by many for its skin brightening and rejuvenating properties. Packed in antioxidants vitamin C can combat signs of dark spots by working on the lower layers of the skin, preventing excess pigmentation to work its way to the surface.
The only trouble is mixing lactic acid and vitamin C can be too harsh for the skin. Many skincare experts advise using these potent actives together, once enough time has passed between applications. Alternatively you can also alternate when you use each formula, for example, opting to apply vitamin C enriched serum in the morning, followed by lactic acid in the evening.
Top 3 Vitamin C Skin Care Products
Weve put together a GHS curated selection of our favorite skin care products that contain vitamin C for anti-aging, brightening, fading hyperpigmentation, calming redness, and reducing fine lines and wrinkles. We only link to products that we absolutely believe in. All the products weve chosen are paraben-free, sulfate-free, and phthalate-free. Remember – results wont happen overnight. It will take 6-8 weeks of consistent topical use before you begin to see improvements, so stay consistent with your product usage.
Use in AM & PMApply this serum to your face, neck, and chest post cleansing, exfoliating, toning, and any AHA or retinol serum.Price$$
Use in AM & PMApply this serum to your face, neck, and chest post cleansing, exfoliating, toning, and any AHA or retinol serum.Price$$$
Use in AM & PMApply this serum to your face, neck, and chest post cleansing, exfoliating, toning, and any AHA or retinol serum.Price$$$$
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How Does The Ordinary Lactic Acid Work
So, how does The Ordinary Lactic Acid work? Being a chemical exfoliantmore specifically, an alpha-hydroxy acidLactic Acid has the ability to loosen the sticky glue that holds dead skin cells to the surface of your skin.
Thats why an application of a product with Lactic Acid can reveal a brighter and smoother-looking complexion.
You may wonder, Should I use The Ordinary Lactic Acid for blackheads? Kaka explains:
AHAs such as Lactic Acid will help to improve appearance through superficial exfoliation, but beta-hydroxy acids are a more suitable choice for this concern.
This is because, while AHAs are water-soluble, BHAs are lipid- soluble, which means that they will be able to mix with the skins lipids and work both on the surface and inside pores, to help clear congestion.
The most popular BHA in skincare is Salicylic Acid, which we offer in The Ordinary in different formats.
Glycolic Acid And Vitamin C
Glycolic acid is the strongest of the commonly used AHAs. However, this combination of AHA and vitamin C should be used with caution as glycolic acid is known to cause a lot of skin irritation. That being said, glycolic acid is a potent exfoliant that clears dead and dull skin cells. Combining that with Vitamin C’s brightening and cell renewing effects, you can achieve maximum skin care results.
The best way to combine these ingredients is to alternate daily use with all this in mind. Our favorite method is to use a glycolic acid toner or toner pad and apply a vitamin C serum in the morning. Applying them at different times lessens the ingredients’ chances of diluting or creating a counterproductive reaction for your skin. Remember that glycolic acid can increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun, so always apply SPF.
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What Should You Not Use Lactic Acid For
Many favour to use it in a toner or similar product, but this acid isnt just restricted to exfoliating the skin. Lactic acid also contains humectant properties meaning it is able to balance the skin by pulling moisturise into the skin from the surrounding areas and formulations of skincare products. This enables the AHA to find its way into other skin and body products, such as gentle cleansers, hand creams and body moisturisers.
As you can see this is a very versatile ingredient and with its structure resulting in it remaining gentle on the skin, with the large molecular preventing it from reaching too far down into the lower layers of the skin, leading to irritation. In regards to what should you not use lactic acid for, well there really isnt much you cant do with this multitalented ingredient. As gentle as lactic acid is on the skin it is best you still perform a 24 hour patch test before using any product to ensure you dont suffer with any skin flare-ups or irritation.
The Dos And Donts Of Skin Care Mixing
Well, it depends on which ingredients youre talking about. Not every ingredient is pals with each other, and some may even negate the others benefits.
So to maximize the most out of your bottles and droppers, here are five powerful ingredient combinations to remember. Plus, ones to absolutely avoid.
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Skincares Newest Power Player: The Dr Dennis Gross Vitamin C Lactic Collection
6 minutes
In another life, our dermatologist founder, Dennis Gross, MD, would be the ideal matchmaker because he has a true gift for creating perfect pairs for our breakthrough skincare formulations: alpha + beta retinol + ferulic and now vitamin C + lactic acid as part of our brand-new Dr. Dennis Gross Vitamin C Lactic line.
Option : Apply Them At The Same Time
You might be surprised to know that it’s also possible to apply your vitamin C serum and acid together, at the same time.
In fact, using an acid right before vitamin C could actually ENHANCE your results.
That’s because the active form of vitamin C, L-ascorbic acid, has been found to penetrate best at a low pH, under 3.5.
We know that AHAs and BHAswhich are typically between pH 3.0 and 4.0make the skin more acidic by lowering its pH. So by applying an acid first, it will create the optimal conditions for the L-ascorbic acid to be effective.
Acids may even improve the conversion of vitamin C derivatives into L-ascorbic acid.
“Non-acidic forms of vitamin C are almost always of a higher pH than AHAs, so be sure that you acidify the skin first so that the THD , MAP , or ascorbyl glucoside can actually be broken down or transformed/activated into L-ascorbic acid to begin with,” suggests FutureDerm founder Nicki Zevola Benvenuti.
Post-application, the 30-minute waiting period would be applicable here as well. This will give the two treatments enough time to do their jobs at the low pH before applying hydration or sun protection.
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Dr Dennis Gross Vitaminc Lactic Ingredients Products Price
True to its name, the VitaminC Lactic spotlights two ingredients: Vitamin C and Lactic Acid. The skincare brand shares that each product from the range features an ideal percentage of vitamin C and lactic acid to boost the skin’s radiance.
Vitamin C and lactic acid in one bottle!
Dr. Dennis Gross explains that these two ingredients are the “ultimate besties”. Vitamin C provides a good dose of antioxidants to the skin to fight damaging free radicals while lactic acid removes the surface layer of dead skin to ensure better product absorption. Lactic acid can also support the skin’s ceramides to increase its water content.
A three-step routine.
The range includes the VitaminC Lactic 15% Vitamin C Firm & Bright Serum , an antioxidant-rich serum with 15% L-ascorbic acid. There’s also the VitaminC Lactic Firm & Bright Eye Treatment , a silky, fast-absorbing treatment that boasts three forms of vitamin C, lactic acid, and tranexamic acid. Finally, there’s the VitaminC Lactic Dewy Deep Cream a rich face cream with vitamin C, niacinamide, squalane, and ceramides.
Can You Mix Vitamin C + Vitamin E In Your Skin Care Routine
Up your dose of daily vitamins by using C + E together in your skincare. Both are protective antioxidants so work to limit UV damage but work particularly well together as they each have particular strengths. Studies have shown that Vit E is particularly good at wardIng off some of the unwanted effects of UVB while Vit C works against UVA damage. Naturally broad spectrum sunscreen is still crucial when wearing eitherthrow that into the mix with C and E and you’ve got yourself a top drawer skin-protecting cocktail.
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How To Dilute Lactic Acid The Ordinary
While we recommend starting with The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA 2% rather than the 10% formula, you can also dilute either product to lower its potency.
A good way to dilute Lactic Acid is to mix it with another serum or moisturiserone containing hyaluronic acid works well.
When you are looking at how to use The Ordinary lactic acid and hyaluronic acid, be sure not to dilute Lactic Acid with something that contains retinol or another acid. Youll end up with irritation, not exfoliation.
Stronger And Better Together
It can be daunting to start bringing powerful ingredients into your routine, let alone mixing and matching them into even more powerful combinations.
But once youve got an ingredients team thats more than the sum of its parts, your skin will get the benefits of them working smarter, harder, and with better results.
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How Long Does It Take For Lactic Acid To Work
Generally speaking, you can expect to see a notable difference in the skin after 4-6 applications of lactic acid during your daily skincare routine. As for chemical peels, on average about 2 treatments between 1-2 months will give the skin an overall improved look and feel. Luckily for us, lactic acid is gentle enough to use every day but keep in mind that results wont happen overnight so try not to overuse the acid as this can cause irritation.
There you have a little insight into what you can and cant mix with lactic acid, dont forget to come and find me over on the Procoal .
Whats The Order Of Application
As a general rule of thumb, apply in order of thickness, starting with the thinnest and working your way up, explains Mraz Robinson.
She has a few caveats for specific combinations too: If using vitamin C and a physical filter sunscreen, she recommends applying the vitamin C first, then your sunscreen. When using hyaluronic acid and retinol, apply retinol first, then hyaluronic acid.
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Can I Use The Ordinary Lactic Acid And Vitamin C Together
Now, if youre wondering if you can use The Ordinary Lactic Acid and vitamin C together, we have to caution you here.
We do not recommend combining direct acids and vitamin C in the same regimen to avoid the potential of developing skin sensitivities, warns Kaka.
If you wish to incorporate both into your regimen, we suggest the two products into AM and PM regimens.
Find out more about layering The Ordinary products in the YouTube video below…
And there you have it! We hope youve learned a thing or two after reading this comprehensive guide on how to use The Ordinary Lactic Acid.
Find out more about The Ordinary range in the guides below…
Microorganisms Media And Culture Conditions
L. thermophilus A69 used in this study was derived from heavy ion mutagenesis , and was cultivated on MRS agar plates at 50â¯Â°C for 24â¯h, as described in a previous report . The seed medium included 20â¯g/L glucose, 10â¯g/L peptone, 10â¯g/L beef extract, 5â¯g/L yeast extract, 2â¯g/L ammonium citrate tribasic, 1â¯mL/L Tween 80, 5â¯g/L sodium acetate, 0.58â¯g/L MgSO4â¢7H2O, 2â¯g/L K2HPO4, and 0.25â¯g/L MnSO4â¢4H2O, with the pH of the medium adjusted to 6.2â6.4. The
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Magnesium For Lactic Acid
Magnesium is an essential dietary mineral responsible for metabolic functions, including the production of energy and oxygen use. Magnesium in the diet or through supplementation might prove beneficial in reducing lactic acid buildup during vigorous exercise, according to HealthLine.
Magnesium in the diet comes from foods such as legumes, nuts, leafy green vegetables and whole grains. Magnesium supplements are available in different forms but are generally mixed with buffering compounds to prevent excess intake of pure magnesium in the bloodstream.
The daily recommended magnesium allowance for adults is 320 to 410 milligrams. Consult your physician before taking magnesium supplements.
Salicylic Acid And Vitamin C The Bottom Line
Salicylic acid and vitamin C are both ingredients that have a wide-range of benefits for your skin especially when it comes to treating fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. When it comes to anti-aging, vitamin C might just have the upper hand. However, if you have oily skin and/or are prone to acne, salicylic acid would be a better choice. Theres no reason that you cant use the two ingredients together as long as you dont experience irritation.
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Can You Use Salicylic Acid And Vitamin C Together
If you really cant decide between salicylic acid and vitamin C, theres no reason that you couldnt use both together as long as you dont find this combination irritating for your skin.
In fact, salicylic acid and vitamin C may be a particularly good combination when it comes to brightening skin.
Skincare ingredients that target hyperpigmentation usually work in one of three ways:
- Before melanin production
- During melanin production
- After melanin production
In addition, chemical exfoliants, like salicylic acid, can help speed up the fading of existing pigment.
The most effective way to treat hyperpigmentation is by combining ingredients that work at each stage alongside a chemical exfoliant.
For example, retinoids , vitamin C , niacinamide , and salicylic acid .
Research has demonstrated the combination of salicylic acid and vitamin C to be a safe and effective treatment for melasma
Vitamin C can also increase the natural production of ceramides in your skin which helps to strengthen your skin barrier, keep your skin hydrated, and may help reduce any irritation caused by salicylic acid.
The Base Of Your Product Impacts What It Can Mix With
One simple consideration, to begin with, is the baseline, or carrier liquid of your products. “Basic science but oil and water do not mix,’ explains By Lisa de-la-Plain, Professional Beauty Therapist and Co-founder of Beauty Flash.”In fact, oil repels water, so when it comes to your skincare, using an oil-based product will leave a film on your skin which prevents water-based formulas from absorbing.”
“Skin can be dry or it can be dehydrated and treatment for these two issues are different from one another. Dry skin lacks sebum oil, so it requires oil-based products to calm. Likewise, dehydrated skin is gasping for water to quench its thirst. Make sure you check the label on purchase so you know youre not going to miss out on the benefits the product can offer.”
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Option : Apply Them At Different Times Of Day
The simplest way to incorporate vitamin C and acids in your routine is to apply them away from each other, at different times of day.
This is a good approach for beginners and sensitive types, since AHAs, BHAs and L-ascorbic acid are all acidic ingredients. By separating them, you’re less likely to irritate your skin.
As for which active you put on when, it’s up to you.
In the past, most dermatologists have recommended using vitamin C serums in the morning. Dr. Neal Schultz, however, believes that a nighttime application is even more beneficial. Away from UV light, the vitamin C “gets fully absorbed into your cells where it’s really needed,” he told Vogue.
Acids can also be used at any time, as long as you’re protecting your skin with a good sunscreen during the day. BHAs have some photoprotective properties, so they’re ideal for mornings, while AHAs make your skin more sun-sensitive, so they’re your best bet at bedtime.
After your L-ascorbic acid or acid exfoliant, be sure to wait about 30 minutes before you layer on higher-pH products like moisturizer or sunscreen. That way, they’ll have enough time to work at their intended pH levels. If you’re using a vitamin C derivative with a higher pH, waiting isn’t necessary.
