Antioxidant Serums: Layering Guide
Why Antioxidants Are Essential
Free radicals attack skin cells, breaking down collagen and accelerating aging. Antioxidant serums neutralize free radicals, providing defense behind sunscreen. Combining antioxidants with SPF increases photoprotection by 4x.
Top Ingredients
Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid)
Most studied antioxidant. Brightens, stimulates collagen, fades spots. Best at 15-20%, pH below 3.5.
Vitamin E (Tocopherol)
Synergizes with vitamin C — combined provides 4x more protection. Strengthens skin barrier.
Ferulic Acid
Stabilizes vitamins C and E, doubles photoprotection. The gold standard trio: C + E + ferulic.
Niacinamide (B3)
Reduces inflammation, regulates oil, minimizes pores. Compatible with nearly all ingredients.
Resveratrol
From grape skins, activates sirtuins. Best at night during skin repair.
Morning Layer Order
- 1. Cleanser
- 2. Toner (optional)
- 3. Vitamin C serum (first on clean skin)
- 4. Niacinamide serum
- 5. Hyaluronic acid
- 6. Moisturizer
- 7. Sunscreen (always last)
Evening Routine
Swap vitamin C for resveratrol or green tea extract. Layer: cleanser, retinol (wait 20 min), antioxidant serum, moisturizer.
