Vitamin C is one of the most trusted and effective ingredients in skincare. From brightening skin to boosting collagen and protecting against damage, its benefits are undeniable. But even with the best intentions, small missteps in how you use Vitamin C could be holding you back from seeing its full potential.
Let’s uncover five common mistakes—and how to fix them for radiant, healthy skin.
1. Mistake: Choosing the Wrong Formulation for Your Skin Type
The Problem: Not all Vitamin C products are created equal. Highly potent formulas like pure L-ascorbic acid can irritate sensitive skin, while overly diluted products may not deliver visible results.
Why It Matters: Vitamin C's effectiveness hinges on its form and stability. L-ascorbic acid is potent but can oxidise quickly, while derivatives like sodium ascorbyl phosphate are gentler and more stable.
The Fix: Choose a formulation tailored to your skin type. Beginners or those with sensitive skin should start with stabilised Vitamin C in a lower concentration. Our Active Nutrient Serum combines Vitamin C with soothing prebiotics to balance effectiveness and comfort.
2. Mistake: Applying Vitamin C Without Prepping the Skin
The Problem: Applying Vitamin C to unprepared skin—whether it's oily, dry, or covered in residue—limits its absorption and reduces its efficacy.
Why It Matters: Active ingredients like Vitamin C penetrate better on clean, slightly hydrated skin. Skipping this step means you’re not getting the full benefits of your serum.
The Fix: Start with a clean face. After cleansing, spritz your skin with a hydrating mist like our Reviving Face Mist to prepare for optimal absorption. Vitamin C is more effective when applied to damp skin.
3. Mistake: Skipping Vitamin C in the Morning
The Problem: Many people only use Vitamin C at night, missing out on its daytime protective benefits.
Why It Matters: Vitamin C acts as a powerful antioxidant, shielding your skin from free radicals caused by pollution, UV rays, and other environmental stressors during the day.
The Fix: Apply Vitamin C in the morning after cleansing and before sunscreen. This combination forms a robust barrier against oxidative stress, protecting your skin all day.
4. Mistake: Overusing or Misusing Vitamin C with Other Actives
The Problem: Combining Vitamin C with strong exfoliants or retinoids can irritate the skin and destabilise its formula. Applying too much Vitamin C or using it multiple times a day can also strain your skin barrier.
Why It Matters: Skincare routines should work in harmony. Overloading your skin with active ingredients can lead to irritation, redness, or dryness, rather than the glowing results you want.
The Fix: Simplify your routine. Use Vitamin C in the morning and retinoids or exfoliants at night. Pair Vitamin C with moisturisers like our Prebiotic Cream to hydrate and support your skin barrier.
5. Mistake: Expecting Instant Results
The Problem: It’s tempting to expect Vitamin C to work overnight, but its benefits take time and consistency.
Why It Matters: Research shows that it takes 4–8 weeks of daily Vitamin C use to see noticeable improvements in skin tone, texture, and elasticity. Giving up too soon means missing out on long-term benefits.
The Fix: Be patient and stay consistent. Make Vitamin C a daily part of your routine, and track your progress with photos to see how your skin evolves over time.
A Foolproof Vitamin C Routine
Follow this simple routine to get the best results from your Vitamin C serum:
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Cleanse: Use a gentle cleanser to remove dirt and impurities.
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Hydrate: Mist your face with a hydrating product to prep your skin.
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Apply: Use a pea-sized amount of Vitamin C serum, focusing on your face and neck.
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Moisturise: Lock in hydration with a cream that supports your skin barrier.
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Protect: Always finish with sunscreen during the day to amplify Vitamin C’s protective benefits.
Why Fixing These Mistakes Matters
When used correctly, Vitamin C can transform your skin by:
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Brightening your complexion and reducing dark spots.
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Protecting against oxidative stress from pollution and UV rays.
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Supporting collagen production for smoother, firmer skin.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can unlock the full potential of this powerhouse ingredient and enjoy its lasting benefits.
References
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National Institutes of Health: The science behind Vitamin C and its antioxidant properties.
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The British Journal of Dermatology: The role of Vitamin C in collagen production and protection against free radicals.
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Dermatologic Therapy: Guidelines for introducing antioxidants into skincare routines.
HORMONAL & PROUD
Created as a brand to help women navigate the toughest moments in pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum — and practically every stage of life –– The SABI aims to change the narrative around our hormones from one of taboo, embarrassment, and loneliness to awareness and pride. As more than a wellness brand, The SABI offers a carefully-crafted line of products to carry you through your hormonal journey, including rituals, supportive tools, and ancient herbal remedies that have been tested time and time again by women and now come backed by medicine.
The SABI is a blend of science and nature conceived by women who have experienced the joys and deep struggles of bringing a child into the world, the pains of a heavy, difficult period, miscarriage, and difficulty conceiving.
We offer you an invitation to get to know your body and its cycles better –– an invitation to really understand what is going on inside. Learn to use your hormonal cycle to your advantage no matter your stage of life, and know that you can support and balance your hormone levels. Look for the right sources of information. Know that there is help, and know that you’re supported.
DISCLAIMER
The SABI blog and articles are not meant to instruct or advise on medical or health conditions, but to inform. The information and opinions presented here do not substitute professional medical advice or consultations with healthcare professionals for your unique situation.
