The Vitamin C & A Collection

Product Overview

Target visible aging, dullness, and uneven skin tone with The Ordinary The Vitamin C & A Collection. This advanced skincare trio combines a stable Vitamin C derivative for daytime antioxidant protection with a high-strength Retinal formula for overnight renewal. Designed to improve firmness, brightness, and skin texture, the collection helps support smoother, clearer, and more radiant-looking skin over time. Paired with a barrier-supporting moisturizer, this routine delivers effective age-support benefits while helping maintain hydration and skin comfort throughout treatment.

Key Benefits

1. Combines Vitamin C and Retinal for comprehensive age-support care.

2. Helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

3. Brightens dull skin and improves uneven tone.

4. Supports smoother and more refined skin texture.

5. Provides antioxidant protection against environmental stressors.

6. Features high-strength Retinal for advanced overnight skin renewal.

7. Helps maintain hydration and barrier comfort during active treatments.

8. Includes soothing ingredients to minimize visible irritation from Retinal use.

9. Lightweight formulas absorb easily without heavy residue.

10. Creates a complete day-and-night routine for visible skin improvement.

Key Ingredients and The Science Behind Them

12% Ascorbyl Glucoside (Vitamin C):
A stable, water-soluble Vitamin C derivative that helps brighten the skin and provide antioxidant support with lower irritation potential than pure Vitamin C.

0.2% Retinaldehyde (Retinal):
A high-strength Vitamin A derivative that helps improve skin firmness, texture, and the appearance of wrinkles while supporting overnight skin renewal.

Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMF) + HA:
A blend of amino acids, fatty acids, and Hyaluronic Acid that helps support hydration and strengthen the skin barrier.

Specification Table

How to Use

Follow this routine carefully for best results.

Morning (AM):

Apply Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12% to clean, dry skin. Follow with Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA and finish with sunscreen.

Evening (PM):

Apply Retinal 0.2% Emulsion to clean, dry skin. Beginners should start with 1–2 uses weekly before gradually increasing frequency.

Seal (PM):

Apply Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA after Retinal to support hydration and skin comfort.

Note:

Retinal naturally has a strong yellow color due to its concentration and may leave a temporary tint that rinses away.

Who is it for?

Experienced Retinoid Users:
Ideal for those already familiar with Retinol or advanced active skincare.

Mature Skin:
Suitable for visible wrinkles, firmness concerns, and uneven texture.

Sun-Damaged Skin:
Helps improve the appearance of discoloration and age spots.

Dull Complexions:
Supports brighter, more radiant-looking skin.

Advanced Skincare Routines:
Perfect for users wanting a Vitamin C morning routine and Retinal night routine.

Texture Concerns:
Helps smooth rough or uneven skin texture over time.

FAQ

Q: Why should Retinal only be used at night?
A: Retinal is sensitive to sunlight and is best used during the evening to support overnight skin renewal.

Q: Can I use Vitamin C and Retinal in the same routine?
A: It is recommended to separate them into morning and evening routines for better tolerance and effectiveness.

Q: Why is the Retinal formula yellow?
A: Retinaldehyde naturally has a deep yellow color, especially at higher concentrations.

Q: Is this collection suitable for sensitive skin?
A: The Vitamin C serum is gentle, but the Retinal formula is high-strength and should be introduced slowly with patch testing.

Q: Does the moisturizer feel oily?
A: Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA is designed to provide hydration without a heavy or greasy finish.

Q: How long does one set usually last?
A: Depending on usage frequency, the collection typically lasts around 2–3 months.

Complete Your Skincare Routine

Double Cleanse: Start with Squalane Cleanser.

Oil Balance: Apply Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% before Vitamin C in the morning.

Barrier Care: Add Soothing & Barrier Support Serum if dryness occurs from Retinal use.

Lip Care: Finish with Squalane + Amino Acids Lip Balm.

Eye Support: Pair with Multi-Peptide Eye Serum for targeted eye care.