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Updated April 2026 · about a 7 minute read
Bright, even, radiant looking skin starts with a considered morning routine.
The short answer
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a powerhouse antioxidant that supports the look of bright, even, radiant skin and helps defend against everyday environmental stress. Use it in the morning, under SPF, and it pairs beautifully with PDRN. Shop the MERIKIT Vita C 13 Ampoules.
Vitamin C has long been a skincare favourite, and for good reason. Whether you want to brighten a dull looking complexion, support the look of firmer skin, or help defend against daily environmental stressors, it is a worthy addition to almost any routine. Here is how to get the most from it, and how it sits alongside PDRN.
What makes vitamin C special?
Vitamin C, known scientifically as ascorbic acid, is a powerful antioxidant. It helps neutralise free radicals (unstable molecules generated by everyday environmental exposure) and supports the look of a healthy, radiant complexion. Think of it as the ingredient that helps your skin look like it got a good night of sleep, even when it did not.
Benefits of vitamin C skincare
1. Brightens dull looking skin. Vitamin C helps support the look of a brighter, more even tone and the appearance of fewer dark spots.
2. Supports the look of firmness. It is a popular ally for the appearance of plumper skin and softened fine lines, a lovely partner to your anti ageing routine.
3. Helps defend against environmental stress. While it is not a sunscreen, vitamin C supports your skin's daytime defence, so wear it under SPF.
4. Hydration boost. Many vitamin C formulas include hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid to keep skin looking plump and comfortable.
5. Comforting. Vitamin C has a soothing feel that helps calm the look of redness.
Vitamin C brightens and defends by day, PDRN quietly hydrates and calms, together they round out a routine.
When and how to use vitamin C
Vitamin C is most effective in the morning, helping shield skin from daytime oxidative stress. Some formulas are made for night use too, so read the label of whatever you choose.
Application: 1) cleanse, 2) tone if you like, 3) apply a few drops of your vitamin C serum, gently pressed in, 4) moisturise, 5) finish with a broad spectrum SPF in the morning. That last step is not optional if you want vitamin C to earn its keep.
Who is vitamin C best for?
Almost all skin types, but it is especially helpful for those with the look of dull or uneven tone, fine lines, or skin that benefits from a soothing, brightening antioxidant. If your skin is easily upset, start a few times a week and build up gradually as your skin gets used to it.
Spotlight: MERIKIT Vita C 13 Ampoules
For a professional grade, single dose format, the MERIKIT Vita C 13 Ampoules are a standout. Thirteen individually sealed ampoules mean every application is fresh and at peak potency, something jar serums simply cannot match. They are lovely on their own or paired with a gentle treatment for better absorption, supporting the look of a brighter, more even complexion.
Choosing a vitamin C product
Look for stable forms such as pure L ascorbic acid, often paired with vitamin E and ferulic acid to support performance. Apply SPF daily, since vitamin C routines pair best with good sun protection. Everyone's skin is different, so a little experimentation helps, and it is always worth consulting a professional if you have specific concerns.
CureNex Salmon DNA Sheer Sunscreen SPF50
The daily SPF that lets your vitamin C actually do its job, sheer, comfortable broad spectrum protection with salmon DNA.
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Vitamin C and PDRN: a lovely pairing
Vitamin C is great on its own, but pairing it with PDRN salmon DNA rounds out a routine beautifully. Vitamin C brightens and supports daytime defence, while PDRN is a gentle hydrator that supports the look of calm, even skin. Use vitamin C in the morning and a PDRN serum morning and night.
Frequently asked questions
When should I use vitamin C, morning or night?
Morning is ideal, under SPF, to support daytime defence against environmental stress. Some formulas are made for night use too.
Can I use vitamin C with PDRN?
Yes. Use vitamin C in the morning and a gentle PDRN serum morning and/or night, they complement each other well.
How often should I use vitamin C?
Daily for most people. If your skin is sensitive, start a few times a week and build up as tolerated.
Disclaimer: these are cosmetics, not therapeutic goods, and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or condition. Always patch test; products containing salmon DNA are not suitable for those with fish allergies.
