If there’s one product that transforms dull, tired skin into a visibly radiant complexion, it’s Vitamin C serum. Loved by dermatologists and top facialists alike, this powerhouse antioxidant brightens, firms, and protects your skin from daily environmental stressors.
But timing matters. Even the best formula can lose potency if it’s applied at the wrong moment. So, should you use your Vitamin C serum in the morning, at night, or both?
Here’s what experts — and Joanna Vargas herself — recommend, plus how the Rescue Vitamin C + Squalane Serum delivers the glow that endures.
Key Takeaways
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Morning: Defends against pollution, blue light, and UV-related oxidative stress.
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Night: Enhances repair and collagen renewal while you sleep.
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Always with SPF: Vitamin C and sun protection are the ultimate defense duo.
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Consistency wins: Regular use matters more than frequency.
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The Rescue Serum Difference: A stable Vitamin C paired with squalane for maximum absorption and hydration.
1. Why Timing Matters
Vitamin C is one of skincare’s most delicate ingredients — highly effective, but prone to oxidation when exposed to light and air. When used correctly, it becomes one of the most transformative tools for maintaining bright, firm, resilient skin.
Applying it at the right time ensures it works with your skin’s natural rhythm — protecting by day and restoring by night.
As Joanna Vargas explains:
“Timing your actives isn’t about rules — it’s about results. Vitamin C performs differently depending on what your skin needs in that moment.”
2. Why Morning Application Shines
Most estheticians and dermatologists agree: morning is the ideal time to apply Vitamin C.
Throughout the day, your skin faces oxidative stress from sunlight, blue light, and pollution. Vitamin C acts as a potent antioxidant shield, neutralizing free radicals before they can damage collagen or dull your complexion.
When you use Rescue Vitamin C + Squalane Serum in the morning, you:
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Protect against environmental aggressors.
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Prevent dullness and uneven tone.
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Boost natural luminosity for a radiant, makeup-ready finish.
Follow with a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher — this duo forms your skin’s daily defense system.
3. Nighttime Benefits
While morning application protects, evening use restores.
As you sleep, your skin enters its repair phase. Applying Vitamin C serum at night helps boost collagen production, calm inflammation, and correct signs of daily stress.
The Rescue Serum is ideal for this because it pairs a stable, oil-soluble form of Vitamin C (Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate) with olive-derived squalane, which nourishes and supports the skin barrier without clogging pores.
Used morning, night, or both — it adapts beautifully to your skin’s natural cycles.
4. How to Layer for Maximum Results
Proper layering enhances every active ingredient. Joanna Vargas recommends:
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Cleanse: Start with a gentle cleanser such as the Vitamin C Face Wash to prep and purify.
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Apply Serum: Dispense 2–3 drops of Rescue Serum on clean, dry skin. Press gently into the face, neck, and décolletage.
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Moisturize: Follow with Daily Hydrating Cream to strengthen the skin barrier.
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Protect: In the morning, finish with SPF. At night, use an Overnight Moisturizer for added nourishment.
Pro tip: After exfoliating acids, allow 5–10 minutes before applying Vitamin C so your skin’s pH can rebalance.
5. The Joanna Vargas Rescue Serum Difference
What makes this serum unique isn’t just its brightening power — it’s the harmony between Vitamin C, squalane, and elderberry extract:
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Vitamin C (Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate): A stable, oil-based form that penetrates deeply to firm and even tone without irritation.
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Squalane: A plant-derived hydrator that mimics the skin’s natural oils to lock in moisture and enhance barrier strength.
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Elderberry Extract: A botanical antioxidant that helps shield skin from oxidative damage.
Together, they deliver visible radiance while strengthening your skin from within.
As Joanna Vargas shares:
“We designed this serum to deliver results without irritation. The squalane naturally stabilizes the Vitamin C, so every drop feels pure, potent, and plant-powered.”
6. Consistency Is Everything
Whether applied in the morning, evening, or both, consistent use is what transforms your skin over time. Expect:
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A brighter, more even complexion.
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Reduced discoloration and dark spots.
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Softer, plumper, more hydrated skin.
Named Allure’s Best of Beauty ‘Top Splurge’, the Rescue Vitamin C + Squalane Serum is celebrated for delivering enduring radiance — one luxurious drop at a time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Should I apply Vitamin C before or after moisturizer?
A: Always before moisturizer, so antioxidants can penetrate effectively.
Q: Can I use Vitamin C with retinol?
A: Yes — apply Vitamin C in the morning and retinol at night for balanced renewal and protection.
Q: How soon will I see results?
A: Many notice an immediate glow, with visibly improved tone and firmness in 2–4 weeks.
Q: Is the Joanna Vargas Rescue Serum safe for sensitive skin?
A: Absolutely. Its oil-based, non-acidic form of Vitamin C makes it suitable even for sensitive skin types.