Vitamin C, Niacinamide, Glycolic Acid... Which serum should you apply on your face at what time? Ask your skin doctor for answers...
- byShikha Srivastava
- 22 Nov, 2025
Skincare Tips: Serums are becoming an essential part of skincare these days. Different serums are available in the market for different skin concerns. Some help brighten and glow, others reduce acne and pimples, and some even remove blemishes. This means that different serums are formulated for different skin concerns. However, many people remain confused about which serums should be applied at what time. Serums applied at the wrong time fail to show their full effect. Dermatologist Ipsita Johri shared a video on her Instagram handle. In this video, the skin expert shares a simple guide to the correct timing of skincare serums. Let's find out more about this:

What do skin experts say?
Dr. Ipsita explains that timing is crucial in skincare. Using the right active ingredient at the right time results in better and faster results.
Which serum should you apply to your face in the morning?
Dermatologists say that vitamin C brightens the skin, reduces blemishes, and protects against sun damage. It should always be applied in the morning. However, be sure to apply a good sunscreen after applying the serum.
Niacinamide
Niacinamide soothes the skin, evens out tone, and helps minimize the appearance of pores. It's also best applied in the morning. It strengthens the skin barrier and maintains skin balance throughout the day.
Glycolic Acid
If you use glycolic acid, always apply it at night. It's an exfoliating acid that removes dead skin, leaving the face glowing. It should be applied at night because it increases sensitivity to sunlight.
Retinol
Retinol is considered the most effective active ingredient for anti-aging. It should also always be used at night. It helps boost collagen, reduce wrinkles, and smooth the skin.
Peptides
Peptides firm the skin and help with anti-aging. They can be applied both morning and night.
The Most Important Step
Dermatologists say that no matter which serum you use, you should never skip sunscreen during the day. It enhances the effectiveness of each active and protects the skin from damage.

Also, keep these things in mind:
Don't mix too many activities, especially in the beginning.
Don't apply glycolic acid and retinol together on the same night.
If you have sensitive skin, gradually incorporate actives into your routine.
Also, always cleanse your face before applying actives and apply a light moisturizer afterward.
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