The latest skincare ingredient debate: Should I use vitamin C or retinol? Or both?

The benefits of vitamin C.
Besides being great for common colds, vitamin C also contains a multitude of benefits for the skin. Its complexion benefits can include:

• Preventing visible skin damage like hyperpigmentation, dullness and uneven tone
• Diminishing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
• Shields skin against environmental stressors, like free radical damage
  
  The benefits of retinol.
  Retinol has earned a reputation as the ultimate wrinkle fighter over recent years. It’s a form of vitamin A that can help:
• Reduce the appearance of wrinkles, dark spots and signs of aging
• Speed cell turnover
• Enhance skin brightness and tone
• Smooth texture
  
  So the question remains: Should I use vitamin C or retinol?
  Like so many other questions in life, the answer is: It depends. The choice should come down to what you’re looking to do for your skin. While vitamin C is most notable for helping to brighten and improve hyperpigmentation, retinol is typically considered best-in-class for wrinkles and fine lines.
  If you really want to give your skin a one-two punch, you can also try incorporating both into your routine. Start by using each ingredient 1-2 times per week, using vitamin C in the morning and retinol at night. And always pair your routine with an SPF, especially when using retinol since it can increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun.
  
  
  About the Author MORE BY THIS AUTHOR
  Jacki Marzano is SoCal-based storyteller and head copywriter at Murad Skincare. She's shaped the voice of some of the most recognized beauty brands in the business, has a penchant for sharing homemade cookies, and believes SPF is the secret to getting carded well into your 40s.