The Power of Vitamins in K-beauty and Their Perfect Matches 

Among the many secrets behind the glowing complexions of Korean skincare enthusiasts lies the strategic incorporation of vitamins, which play a vital role in nourishing and revitalising the skin. In this blog, we will embark on a journey to uncover the remarkable benefits that vitamins bring to your K-beauty routine. We will answer common questions about vitamins in skincare, from types of vitamins to what ingredients to use together with them. Let’s dive into the science and artistry of incorporating vitamins into your skincare arsenal together with us!

What vitamins are used for skincare?

Skincare products often incorporate various vitamins known for their beneficial effects on the skin. Here are some common vitamins found in skincare formulations.

• Vitamin C

Known for its antioxidant properties, it helps brighten the skin, even out skin tone, and promote collagen synthesis. It can assist in reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation and fine lines.

Try: ROHTO MENTHOLATUM Melano CC Vitamin C Lotion - 2 Types (170ml) - £18.50

Brightening lotion with pure Vitamin C evens skin tone, eliminates hyperpigmentation, and inhibits melanin. Contains Dipotassium Glycyrrhizinate, moisturizing ingredients, soothes, nourishes, and hydrates. 

• Vitamin A (Retinol)

A derivative of vitamin A, retinol is renowned for its anti-ageing benefits. It can assist in reducing the appearance of wrinkles, promoting cell turnover, and improving skin texture and tone.

Try: SOME BY MI Retinol Intense Advanced Triple Action Eye Cream (30ml) - £19.95

Holy grail anti-ageing eye cream with Retinol and Retinal for smooth, youthful skin. Packed with star ingredients to brighten, soothe, repair, and nourish the under eyes.

• Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide)

Niacinamide is a versatile vitamin that offers multiple benefits. It can help regulate sebum production, improve the skin's barrier function, fade dark spots, and minimise the appearance of pores.

Try: AXIS-Y Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum (50ml) - £19.00

Proven brightening serum fades dark spots with 5% Niacinamide, Rice Bran, and plant-derived Squalane. Improves uneven skin tones, hydrates, and leaves a radiant, lightweight finish for all skin types.

• Vitamin B5 (Panthenol)

Panthenol is known for its hydrating and soothing properties. It can aid in moisturising the skin, promoting skin elasticity, and calming irritation or redness.

Try: ETUDE HOUSE Soon Jung 2x Barrier Intensive Cream (60ml) - £19.95

Best-selling hypoallergenic cream with 93% natural ingredients balances, repairs, hydrates, and soothes sensitive skin. It maintains a low pH and being free of irritants.

What to use together with vitamins

• Hyaluronic Acid with Vitamin C or Vitamin A (Retinol)

When combined with vitamins, hyaluronic acid helps to boost hydration and improve moisture retention in the skin. It promotes a plump, smooth appearance and can enhance the overall effectiveness of vitamins in combating signs of ageing.

Try: HARUHARU WONDER Black Rice Hyaluronic Toner (150ml) - £16.00

Anti-ageing, brightening toner with hyaluronic acid for deep, long-lasting hydration. Formulated with 95% natural ingredients and the product is vegan-friendly, cruelty-free, and free from harmful chemicals.

• Peptides with Vitamin C

Peptides are amino acid chains that can support collagen production and improve skin elasticity. When used alongside vitamins, they can enhance the anti-ageing effects, helping to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

Try: MACQUEEN Collagen Vita Wrinkle Multi Balm (10g) - £15.00

Luxurious multi-purpose balm targets wrinkles and signs of aging, making skin smoother and plumper. Peptides, Fish Collagen, and Vitamin C improve fine lines, stimulate collagen production, and brighten skin.

• Ceramides with Vitamin C or Vitamin A (Retinol) or Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide)

Ceramides are lipids that help strengthen the skin's barrier function and retain moisture. When paired with vitamins, they can improve the overall hydration and protective qualities of the skin, resulting in a healthier complexion.

Try: ETUDE HOUSE 0.2 Therapy Air Mask Ceramide - £2.20

Quench skin's thirst, strengthen barrier, and lock in deep moisture with this essence mask. Etude House Air Therapy masks use hypoallergenic cotton for a refreshing, long-lasting hydration.

• Antioxidants with Vitamin C or Vitamin A (Retinol) or Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide)

In addition to vitamins, incorporating other antioxidants like green tea extract can provide synergistic benefits. Antioxidants work together to combat free radicals, protect against environmental damage, and promote more youthful-looking skin.

Try: TONY MOLY I'm Real Mask Sheet (Tea Tree) - £3.00

Deeply nourishing sheet mask with tea tree extract alleviates blemishes, soothes redness, and fights acne with antimicrobial properties.

• Sunscreen with Vitamin C

While not an ingredient per se, using sunscreen is crucial when using products containing vitamins. Sunscreen helps protect the skin from harmful UV rays, preventing further damage and allowing the vitamins to work effectively without interference.

Try: DR CEURACLE Hyal Reyouth Moist Sun SPF 50 PA++++ (50ml) - £24.00

Ultra-hydrating, lightweight sunscreen replenishes moisture barrier, protects with SPF50, and deeply moisturizes skin with 10 types of Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin B5 for a supple, healthy complexion.

What to avoid using together with vitamins

• Vitamin C and Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide is commonly used to treat acne, but when combined with vitamin C, it can oxidise vitamin C, rendering it less effective. It's best to use them at different times of the day or alternate their usage.

• Vitamin C and Vitamin A (Retinol)

Both vitamin C and retinol are potent ingredients, and using them together in high concentrations may cause skin irritation. It's advisable to apply them separately, either in different products or on alternate days.

• Vitamin A (Retinol) and Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)

Combining retinol with AHAs, such as glycolic acid or lactic acid, can increase the risk of skin sensitivity and irritation. These ingredients can be effective on their own but should be used in different steps of your skincare routine.

• Vitamin A (Retinol) and Salicylic Acid

Similar to AHAs, using retinol and salicylic acid together can lead to excessive dryness and irritation. It's best to separate their usage or consult with a dermatologist to determine the appropriate way to incorporate both ingredients.