Walk
through any beauty store and the promise is everywhere glowing bottles of
vitamin C serums and rich creams infused with vitamin E. Both are marketed as
skin saviours, but for anyone chasing smoother, healthier looking skin, the
question remains which vitamin actually does more. A recent Prevention report
featuring dermatologists and registered dietitians sheds light on how these two
nutrients differ and why the answer is not as simple as picking one.
Why Antioxidants Matter for Skin
Health
According
to experts quoted in the Prevention report, both vitamin C and vitamin E act as
antioxidants that protect skin cells from free radical damage caused by
pollution, UV exposure and daily environmental stress. Meridan Zerner, a
registered dietitian at Cooper Clinic, explained in the report that these
vitamins work internally and externally to reduce cellular damage, making them
foundational to skin health rather than cosmetic extras.
Vitamin C and the Collagen
Connection
Vitamin C
often takes centre stage in skincare for one major reason collagen. Marissa
Beck, a registered dietitian and founder of REVV Health, noted in the
Prevention report that vitamin C plays a critical role in collagen production,
which supports skin firmness, structure and wound healing.
Dermatologist
Dr Marisa Garshick added that vitamin C helps brighten the skin and improve
uneven tone. Research cited in the report also suggests it may soften the
appearance of wrinkles, raised scars and sagging skin, while protecting against
oxidative stress from sunlight and pollution. This makes vitamin C particularly
appealing for ageing or sun stressed skin.
Vitamin E and the Skin Barrier
Advantage
Vitamin E
works differently. As explained in the Prevention report, it is a fat soluble
vitamin naturally present in the skin’s sebum, helping maintain moisture and
strengthen the skin barrier. Dr Beck highlighted that vitamin E operates within
cell membranes, reducing UV induced damage and calming inflammation.
Because of
these properties, vitamin E is commonly found in moisturisers and oils and may
be especially helpful for dry, flaky skin or inflammatory conditions such as
eczema. Its role is less about brightening and more about protection and
hydration.
Is One Better Than the Other?
Experts
interviewed by Prevention agree that choosing between vitamin C and vitamin E
is not a competition. Dr Garshick explained that while vitamin C may be more
effective for brightening and mature skin concerns, the two vitamins often work
best together. Studies referenced in the report show that combining vitamins C
and E can enhance protection against UV damage and improve signs of ageing.
When
paired, vitamin E can stabilise vitamin C, improving its effectiveness and
longevity in skincare formulations. This synergy explains why many high
performance serums include both.
Food, Skincare and Smart Timing
The
Prevention report also emphasised that smoother skin starts from within. Zerner
recommended vitamin C rich foods such as oranges, strawberries, bell peppers,
tomatoes and broccoli, while vitamin E sources include nuts, seeds, avocados
and plant based oils.
Beck
stressed that diet should be the first line of defence, noting that even mild
nutrient deficiencies can affect healing and immunity. Topical products can
complement nutrition, particularly vitamin C serums used in the morning to
protect against daily environmental damage. Dr Garshick advised pairing vitamin
C with sunscreen for added protection.
The verdict from experts is clear smoother skin is not about choosing vitamin C
over vitamin E, but understanding what your skin needs. Vitamin C supports
brightness and collagen, while vitamin E strengthens and soothes. Used together
and supported by a balanced diet, hydration and proper sleep, they form a
powerful duo rather than rival solutions.
