There’s a reason we haven’t stocked a Vitamin C serum in a while.
Not because we don’t believe in it, but because we’re selective.
Vitamin C is one of the most powerful ingredients in skincare, and also one of the most poorly formulated. It oxidizes easily. It can be irritating. It’s often unstable. And that is not the quality we feel comfortable sharing with our clients.
So when we say we’re excited about Lenox and Sixteenth’s The Preservationist Vitamin C Cream Serum, we mean it.
This isn’t a trend based add-on. It’s a strategic addition to the Skin & Tonic lineup.
And the timing couldn’t be better.
Why Vitamin C Matters (Especially Right Now)
As we move toward warmer weather in Raleigh, sun exposure increases even before summer officially begins.
Longer days. More time outside. Higher UV index.
This is where Vitamin C shines.
A well-formulated Vitamin C serum helps:
- Brighten dull skin
- Support collagen production
- Even out pigmentation
- Defend against environmental stress
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Protects the skin from free radicals
Vitamin C and sunscreen work synergistically. One protects. The other neutralizes oxidative stress from UV exposure. Together? They’re a powerhouse.
What Makes The Preservationist Different
Not all Vitamin C is created equal.
The Preservationist is formulated as a cream serum, which immediately tells you something important: it’s designed for stability and skin compatibility.
Instead of feeling watery, sticky, or overly acidic, this formula:
- Delivers antioxidant support in a more nourishing base
- Supports the barrier while brightening
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Reduces the risk of irritation often associated with traditional L-ascorbic acid formulas
Add to that two forms of potent Vitamin C:
- Nianacide to refine pores and even skin-tone.
- Ceramides squalane and exosomes to hydrate and strengthen the skin’s barrier.
The result? Even, glowing skin without the sting.
At skin&tonic, we prioritize products that work with the skin, not against it. And this formula aligns beautifully with that philosophy.
It feels elegant. It layers well. And it doesn’t compromise your barrier to give you brightness.
Who It’s For
The preservationist is ideal for:
- Anyone noticing dullness after winter
- Clients working on pigmentation
- Those wanting preventative collagen support
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People who want glow without inflammation
And if you’re already getting facials this complements your in-studio treatments perfectly. Professional treatments stimulate change. Vitamin C supports and protects that change daily.
Why We Chose Lenox and Sixteenth
If you’re new to Lenox and Sixteenth, here’s what you should know:
They’re intentional, ingredient-focused, barrier-conscious, esthetician owned, and absolutely brilliant. The brand doesn’t rely on flashy marketing. It relies on thoughtful formulation and that aligns completely with how we operate at skin&tonic Raleigh.
We don’t bring products in because they’re trending. We bring them in because they make sense.
The Preservationist is our first Vitamin C serum in recent years because it meets our standards for stability, efficacy, barrier support, and wearability. And honestly? It fits seamlessly into a results-driven routine.
The Spring-to-Summer Strategy
This time of year, we focus on:
- Strengthening skin before heavy sun exposure
- Supporting pigment control early
- Pairing antioxidants with high-quality SPF
- Building glow gradually, not aggressively
Vitamin C is a foundational step in that strategy.
If you’ve been waiting for us to carry a Vitamin C again, this is the one we feel confident standing behind.
Adding Vitamin C shouldn’t feel like chasing a trend. It should feel like reinforcing your skin.
If you’re curious whether it fits into your current routine, bring it up at your next appointment. We’ll guide you on how to layer it correctly and ensure it complements your treatments.
Unlock radiant, vibrant skin with The Preservationist Vitamin C Cream Serum.


