The Vitamin C & A Collection

Product Overview

Master the gold standards of skincare with The Ordinary The Vitamin C & A Collection. This high-performance set pairs our most effective daytime antioxidant with our highest-strength nighttime retinoid to aggressively target advanced signs of aging, dullness, and stubborn uneven skin tone. By combining a stabilized Vitamin C derivative for daily protection and a potent Retinaldehyde for overnight resurfacing, this collection provides a clinical approach to skin transformation. Complete with our signature barrier-supporting moisturizer, this trio ensures your skin remains hydrated and resilient while undergoing advanced repair.

Key Benefits

• Ultimate Age Support: Combines high-strength Vitamin A and C to visibly reduce deep wrinkles and fine lines.
• Advanced Brightening: Ascorbyl Glucoside works throughout the day to balance skin tone and boost luminosity.
• Highest-Strength Retinoid: Features 0.2% Retinal, our most potent non-prescription Vitamin A for rapid firming.
• Antioxidant Shield: Protects the skin from environmental stressors and free radical damage.
• Texture Refinement: Rapidly smooths textural irregularities for a "polished" skin surface.
• Deep Barrier Support: NMF + HA reinforces the skin’s natural protective shield after intensive treatments.
• Soothes & Calms: Retinal formula includes synthetic oat analogues to minimize the discomfort of high-strength retinoids.
• Multi-Layer Hydration: Provides immediate and all-day moisture to prevent the dryness common with active regimens.
• Stabilized Potency: Encapsulated technology ensures the retinaldehyde remains effective and fresh until the last drop.
• Clinically Curated: A professional-grade routine designed to handle the two most important pillars of skincare.

Key Ingredients and The Science Behind Them

This collection utilizes three specialized clinical formulations:

• 12% Ascorbyl Glucoside (Vitamin C): A water-soluble, highly stable derivative of Vitamin C. It offers superior brightening benefits and antioxidant protection without the irritation potential of pure L-Ascorbic acid.
• 0.2% Retinaldehyde (Retinal): A retinoid that is one conversion step closer to the bioactive form of Vitamin A than Retinol. This 0.2% concentration is exceptionally high-strength, offering faster results in skin firmness and wrinkle reduction.
• Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMF) + HA: A complex of amino acids, fatty acids, and hyaluronic acid that naturally occur in the skin to provide high-bioavailability hydration.

Specification Table

How to Use

Follow this high-potency regimen carefully for the best results:

1. Morning (AM): Apply Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12% to clean, dry face. Follow with Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA. Always finish with a high-SPF sunscreen.
2. Evening (PM): Apply Retinal 0.2% Emulsion to a clean, dry face. Note: Start by using only twice a week, and gradually increase frequency as tolerance builds.
3. Seal (PM): Follow the Retinal application with Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA to lock in moisture and soothe the skin.
4. Note: Due to the high strength of the Retinal, expect a vibrant yellow hue upon application; this is natural and washes off in the morning.

Who is it for?

• Experienced Skincare Users: Specifically for those who have previously used Retinol and are ready to move to Retinal.
• Mature Skin: Those looking to address deep-set wrinkles and visible loss of skin elasticity.
• Sun-Damaged Skin: Individuals with significant hyperpigmentation or "age spots."
• Dull Complexions: People who want to maintain a bright, luminous glow during the day.
• Advanced Regimen Seekers: Anyone wanting a clinical "Vitamin C by day, Vitamin A by night" routine.
• Texture Concerns: Those struggling with rough or uneven skin surface.

FAQ

Q: Why is the Retinal only for nighttime use?
A: Retinaldehyde is sensitive to UV light and can make your skin more prone to sun damage. Using it at night allows it to work with your skin’s natural repair cycle while avoiding sun interference.

Q: Can I use Vitamin C and Retinal at the same time?
A: We recommend using them in separate routines—Vitamin C in the morning for protection and Retinal in the evening for repair—to prevent over-taxing the skin and ensure maximum efficacy.

Q: Why is the Retinal yellow?
A: Retinaldehyde is naturally bright yellow. At 0.2% concentration, the serum is a vibrant yellow color. It may leave a temporary tint on the skin that rinses away with your morning cleanse.

Q: Is this set safe for sensitive skin?
A: The Vitamin C solution is gentle, but the 0.2% Retinal is very high-strength. If you have sensitive skin, patch test first and introduce the Retinal very slowly (once or twice a week).

Q: Does the moisturizer contain oil?
A: Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA is a non-greasy, oil-free formula designed to support the barrier without a heavy feel.

Q: How long will one set last?
A: Since the Retinal is used sparingly (especially at first), the set typically lasts 2 to 3 months.

Complete Your Skincare Routine

• Double Cleanse: Start your routine with the Squalane Cleanser.
• Pore Control: Use Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% in the morning before your Vitamin C.
• Barrier Support: Add Soothing & Barrier Support Serum if you experience dryness from the Retinal.
• Lip Protection: Nourish your lips with Squalane + Amino Acids Lip Balm.
• Eye Rejuvenation: Pair with Multi-Peptide Eye Serum.

Why Buy From theordinary.eu.com?
🌍 Official European store — serving all EU countries
🚚 Fast, tracked delivery across Europe, UK, and US
✅ 100% authentic The Ordinary products
🔒 Secure checkout — SSL encrypted
💬 Dedicated customer support for our global community
🌱 Vegan & cruelty-free products only