The Skin Benefits of Vitamin C
Did you know that there is a Vitamin C Day? Yep! Every April 4th, we get to celebrate this amazing vitamin. Most individuals associate Vitamin C with immune support, but there are many benefits it can provide to our skin.
In this article, we are going to discuss what Vitamin C is and how it helps our skin look amazing.
What is Vitamin C?
Vitamin C (also called ascorbic acid) is an essential nutrient that the body needs for a variety of critical processes such as protein metabolism, immune function, iron absorption, and biosynthesis of collagen, among others. Incidentally, collagen is a vital component of connective tissue and skin that keeps the skin looking firm, smooth, and youthful. Vitamin C is also an antioxidant, meaning it protects against free radicals (harmful molecules that cause cell damage).
The human body can’t make vitamin C, so we need to obtain it from food and supplements. Also, skin products that contain vitamin C can be applied directly to the skin for maximum benefit.
What are the skin benefits of vitamin C?
Topical vitamin C is a scientifically proven ingredient that is a favorite skincare ingredient with our dermatologists. It has several skin benefits, some of which are listed below:
Keeps skin looking youthful
Sun damage is one of the main reasons why skin starts to look old over time. Damage occurs due to harmful molecules called free radicals. Vitamin C is an antioxidant and can render free radicals harmless, thereby protecting the skin against sun damage and keeping it looking younger. Several studies have found that vitamin C levels are lower in sun-damaged or aged skin, so adding vitamin C to your skincare regimen can be beneficial.
Studies have also shown that the application of vitamin C skin products can help slow the early signs of skin aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles. It can also improve skin texture and overall skin appearance.
Also, vitamin C boosts collagen formation in the skin, which may have a firming and tightening effect. Sagging skin is a common sign of aging and occurs due to declining collagen levels with age.
Reduces the appearance of dark spots and under-eye circles
Clinical trials have found that vitamin C can reduce sun spots, age spots, and dark spots by blocking the formation of melanin (pigment) in the skin. Vitamin C serums can also have an overall brightening effect on the skin. Moreover, improvement in dark spots with vitamin C is usually achieved without causing any skin irritation or other side effects.
Vitamin C has hydrating and plumping effects on the skin. It can also help to reduce pigmentation and discoloration. These skin effects of vitamin C can be beneficial in reducing the appearance of under-eye circles and eye bags.
Helps with acne
Vitamin C has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It also controls oil production in the skin. Vitamin C serums may, therefore, be beneficial for people with acne-prone skin. The topical application of vitamin C lotion can reduce acne lesions without causing any serious side effects.
Aids wound healing
Scientific studies have shown that vitamin C plays a role in cell proliferation, DNA repair, and collagen formation, all of which are required during wound healing. Vitamin C may, therefore, help promote wound healing and reduce the risk of infection, inflammation, and scarring.
How to choose the best vitamin C skincare products?
Given its many skin benefits, vitamin C is a common ingredient in serums and other skincare products. However, not all products are effective. The formulation and strength of vitamin C in the skincare product can make a huge difference. In general, you should look for active forms and lipid-soluble forms of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) with a pH lower than 3.5 and a strength between 10% and 20%.
When should I apply a vitamin C serum?
You can get the best results from your vitamin C skincare product by using a concentrated serum or lotion consistently as part of your daily skincare routine.
Begin by cleaning your skin with a gentle cleanser, followed by the application of a few drops of vitamin C serum, and finish with a moisturizer and sunscreen. Remember that while vitamin C can provide some sun protection, it is not a replacement for your sunscreen.
What are some good vitamin C skin serums?
We love Revision Skincare’s Vitamin C Lotion 15%, which contains a stable form of vitamin C along with several other antioxidants such as vitamin E and coenzyme Q10. Regular use of this vitamin C lotion can brighten dull skin, reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles, and moisturize and condition the skin to leave it feeling smooth and soft.
Revision Skincare Vitamin C Lotion 15%
Vitamin C Lotion 15%– Formulated with THD Ascorbate, the stable and lipid-soluble form of Vitamin C, includes a full line-up of antioxidants such as Vitamin E and Coenzyme Q10 to brighten dull skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of firmness. Squalane hydrates for healthy, smooth skin.
Another great product is the Alto Defense Serum from SkinBetter, which combines vitamin C, vitamin E, and more than a dozen other antioxidants to protect your skin against oxidative stress and sun damage. This soothing blend helps to reduce redness. It also brightens overall skin appearance while helping to reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone.
Skinbetter Alto Defense Serum
Scientifically advanced, award-winning daily antioxidant protection.
In addition to daily antioxidant protection, Alto Defense Serum improves the appearance of uneven skin tone and redness.
Combines Vitamins C and E + 17 additional antioxidants designed to provide a new level of comprehensive and dynamic defense against free radicals.
The Bottom Line
There are multiple benefits of using vitamin C-containing products on your skin. This vital nutrient is safe for most skin types and has hydrating and brightening effects. It can help reduce hyperpigmentation and redness and soothe sunburns. Vitamin C also boosts collagen formation in the skin, which may lead to tightening and lifting of sagging skin and reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Besides this, vitamin C protects against sun damage and aids in wound healing.
As always, if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to give our skincare team a call in our Skin for Life Boutique.