The difference between Retinol and Vitamin C: Understanding these two essential active ingredients

When it comes to skin care, retinol and vitamin C are two essential active ingredients. Complementary, yet fundamentally different, they meet specific skin needs and can be integrated into distinct routines.

Vitamin C: All-day radiance and protection

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that acts as a shield against external aggressors such as pollution, UV rays and free radicals. Incorporating a vitamin C-based skincare product into your morning routine also helps even out skin tone and radiance by regulating melanin production locally.

The benefits of Vitamin C

PROTECTION : Vitamin C protects cell membranes made up of fatty acids that are highly sensitive to oxidation. It acts as a free-radical trap, limiting the chain reaction of oxidative stress. It is therefore particularly useful for reinforcing the skin's defense mechanisms in the face of everyday aggressions.
ANTI-AGING : By stimulating collagen production and preventing oxidation of the cells that produce it, vitamin C plays a significant role in preventing skin slackening and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
RADIANCE: Vitamin C also acts on the evenness and radiance of the complexion by locally regulating melanin production. It thus helps reduce the brown spots that can appear on the skin following repeated exposure to the sun.
Highly concentrated in stabilized vitamin C, PERS Vitamin C Serum 10% penetrates skin instantly and leaves a light finish, ideal for starting the day with radiant, protected skin.

Retinol: a night-time regeneration booster

Retinol, derived from vitamin A, is recognized for its regenerating and anti-aging properties. A photosensitizing active ingredient, it is used exclusively in evening skin care products to promote cell renewal while the skin rests.

The benefits of retinol

STIMULATION: Retinol is a vitamin A that transforms into retinoic acid once absorbed by the skin. It stimulates the skin's renewal cycle at the most appropriate time: nighttime. Advances in formulation have made certain retinols suitable for all skin types, even the most sensitive. It stimulates fibroblasts, which are involved in the synthesis of collagen and elastin fibers, restoring firmness and support to the skin, as well as in the production of hyaluronic acid, which binds cells together.
ANTI-AGING : By accelerating skin renewal and exfoliation, retinol refines skin texture and makes it more even. The complexion is fresher, more awake, pores tightened. The result is softer, smoother, younger-looking skin.
ANTI-TACK : Retinol also helps regulate the synthesis of melanin, responsible for the appearance of brown spots. The result is a more even complexion.
PERS Retinol Serum 0.3% is designed for optimum tolerance, thanks to its light, non-irritating formulation. Easy to apply, it works deep down to stimulate cell renewal and reveal smoother, firmer skin.

The right moment for each active ingredient

The effectiveness of these two active ingredients depends on their use at the right time:
  1. Morning: vitamin C Apply after cleansing to protect your skin throughout the day and boost its radiance.
  2. In the evening: retinol Incorporate it into your evening routine to optimize cell regeneration while you sleep.

Beyond maximizing their benefits, there are a few rules to follow:

  1. Retinol is a molecule to be applied exclusively in an active night care product, as it is photosensitizing.
  2. Avoid mixing retinol with pure vitamin C. Combined, these two molecules can cause irritation.