If you have oily skin, you may wonder if adding Vitamin C to your skincare routine can help manage that extra shine. Vitamin C is widely known for its benefits in brightening the skin and reducing the appearance of dark spots, but it can also be effective for oily skin. 

Let’s dive into why Vitamin C is good for oily skin, whether it can clog pores, and what other skin benefits it offers. We’ll also explore whether Vitamin C or retinol is the better option for your skin type.

Vitamin C helps  balance your skin’s oil production and improve your overall skin health . If you deal with oily skin, you know it can sometimes feel like a constant battle against shine and breakouts. Vitamin C can make a big difference by addressing the root causes of oily skin and giving you a clearer, healthier complexion.

Here are a few ways Vitamin C benefits oily skin:

•  Regulates oil production : Vitamin C helps reduce excess oil production by balancing your skin’s natural sebum levels. This means your skin stays hydrated without becoming too greasy or shiny.
•  Clears up clogged pores : Oily skin can lead to clogged pores, which often causes blackheads and breakouts. Vitamin C has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness and swelling, making it easier to keep your pores clean.
•  Tightens pores : By boosting collagen production, Vitamin C helps firm up your skin, which can reduce the appearance of large pores. Tighter pores mean less oil build-up and fewer chances for breakouts.
•  Improves texture : Regular use of Vitamin C can smooth out rough patches and improve the overall texture of your skin. This helps you maintain a more balanced complexion that looks fresh and hydrated, not oily.

Adding Vitamin C into your skincare routine can make a big difference if you’re struggling with oily skin. Just make sure to use a product that suits your skin type and always follow up with sunscreen, as Vitamin C can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.

Browse our dermatologist recommended Vitamin C Serums.

Vitamin C typically does not cause acne . On the contrary, it can help reduce  inflammation  and calm redness, which can be beneficial for those with acne.

When choosing a  Vitamin C product , look for serums or moisturizers that are formulated for oily skin. These products are usually lightweight and absorb quickly, preventing them from feeling greasy or causing breakouts. 

For example, the  EltaMD AM Therapy Facial Moisturizer  is an great choice as it's designed for oilier skin types and won’t leave a heavy residue.

Oily skin is often the result of  overactive sebaceous glands , which produce excess sebum (oil). While some people are genetically predisposed to oily skin, other factors like  hormones, diet, and even the skincare products you use  can play a role.

When your skin produces too much oil, it can lead to clogged pores, acne, and a shiny complexion. That’s why it’s important to choose skincare products that help balance oil production without stripping your skin of its natural moisture

While Vitamin C is known for helping with oily skin, its benefits extend far beyond that. Here are some additional ways Vitamin C can improve the overall health of your skin:

Brightens Skin Tone

Vitamin C is well-known for its  brightening properties . It can help fade dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and even out your skin tone. By doing so, it leaves your skin looking healthier and more radiant. If you struggle with post-acne marks or discoloration, Vitamin C could help lighten those spots over time.

Boosts Collagen Production

One of the most significant benefits of Vitamin C is its role in collagen production. Collagen is the protein responsible for keeping your skin firm and youthful. As we age, collagen production naturally declines, leading to  wrinkles  and sagging. Vitamin C helps boost collagen production, which can help keep your skin looking smooth and firm.

Protects Against Sun Damage

While sunscreen is the most important tool for protecting your skin from sun damage, Vitamin C offers added protection. By neutralizing free radicals caused by sun exposure, Vitamin C helps prevent premature aging, sunspots, and other forms of UV-related damage. Pairing Vitamin C with a sunscreen like EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 can give your skin an extra layer of defense against harmful UV rays.

For oily skin,  retinol  is generally the better choice. It helps reduce oil production and prevents clogged pores, which are common issues for oily skin. Additionally, retinol promotes skin cell turnover, aiding in acne management and improving overall skin texture. 

While vitamin C is excellent for brightening and protecting the skin, it doesn’t address oiliness as effectively as retinol. If your primary concern is managing excess oil and preventing acne, retinol would be more beneficial.

The good news is that you don’t have to choose between the two. Many people benefit from  using both Vitamin C and retinol together , as they target different concerns. 

Use Vitamin C in the Morning

Vitamin C is best used during the day because it helps protect your skin from free radicals and environmental damage caused by UV rays and pollution. After cleansing your face in the morning, apply a Vitamin C serum, such as  Obagi Nu-Derm Toner , to brighten your skin and provide antioxidant protection. Be sure to follow up with a broad-spectrum sunscreen like  EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46  to maximize the sun protection benefits of Vitamin C.

Apply Retinol at Night

Retinol can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it’s recommended to  use it at night  and use a sunscreen during the day, such as  EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 . 

After cleansing your face at night, apply a pea-sized amount of  retinol  to your skin. It’s a good idea to start slow—using retinol every other night or a few times a week to let your skin adjust. Over time, you can increase the frequency as your skin builds tolerance.

Moisturize to Protect Your Skin Barrier

Both Vitamin C and retinol can be drying, especially when used together. After applying retinol at night, be sure to use a hydrating moisturizer to protect your skin barrier and prevent irritation. For oily skin types, the  EltaMD AM Therapy Facial Moisturizer  is a lightweight, non-greasy option that hydrates without clogging pores.

For more tips on combining these powerhouse ingredients, check out our guide on  How to Use Retinol & Vitamin C Together . 

As a final note, make sure to pair them with a good sunscreen like PCA Skin Facial Wash to protect your skin from sun damage, as both Vitamin C and retinol can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.

For oily skin, moisturizing twice a day—morning and night—is usually enough. However, you should also listen to your skin’s needs. If your skin feels tight or dry after washing, don’t hesitate to apply a little extra moisturizer, especially during colder months when your skin might need more hydration.

If you have oily skin, adding Vitamin C to your skincare routine can help regulate oil production, clear pores, and reduce acne. In addition, Vitamin C offers several other benefits, like brightening your complexion and boosting collagen production. 

While  retinol  is another excellent option for oily skin, Vitamin C is gentler and can be used daily. And remember, you don’t have to choose between the two—you can incorporate both into your routine for the best results.

For more tips on managing oily skin, check out our guide on  Essential Products for Oily Skin Types  and explore products like  SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser  to keep your skin balanced and healthy.

• Telang PS. Vitamin C in dermatology. Indian Dermatology Online Journal. 2013 Jul-Sep;4(2):143-146. doi:10.4103/2229-5178.110593. Available from:  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3673383/

• Pullar JM, Carr AC, Vissers MC. The roles of vitamin C in skin health. Nutrients. 2017 Aug;9(8):866. doi:10.3390/nu9080866. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5579659/