Vitamin C is claimed to be the superhero ingredient for our bodies and our skin. However, just how effective is Vitamin C in skincare, and does it live up to the hype? How can you incorporate Vitamin C serums into your beauty regimen?
All About Vitamin C
Harvard Health Publishing claims, “Vitamin C is an antioxidant, meaning it fights harmful free radicals (toxins) that come in contact with your skin from external sources like air pollution, or from inside the body as a result of normal processes like your metabolism.”
Topical Vitamin C is a well-loved ingredient by dermatologists due to its plethora of benefits and is generally well-tolerated by most skin types.
Benefits Of Vitamin C
Vitamin C can provide numerous benefits to the skin, whether it fights aging or shields against harsh environmental factors. In addition, it’s a relatively safe ingredient that’s ideal for daily use and pairs well with sunscreen.
Harvard Health Publishing states Vitamin C “may help slow early skin aging, prevent sun damage, and improve the appearance of wrinkles, dark spots, and acne.”
Promotes Bright and Even Complexion
Do you struggle with having dull and lackluster skin tones? Vitamin C can help promote an even brighter complexion with consistent use.
One article from Healthline claims, “Vitamin C use has been shown to impede melanin production…by inhibiting melanin production, vitamin C can fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation.”
Combats Signs Of Aging
Vitamin C can also slow down various signs of aging, including wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots. For example, Vitamin C is linked to collagen production, affecting your skin’s elasticity.
A loss of elasticity can create sagging skin or a more aged appearance.
Shields Against Sun Damage
Another advantage is Vitamin C’s potential to shield or protect against sun damage. The sun’s harmful rays can accelerate aging and solidify discoloration and scarring frequently leftover from blemishes.
Healthline states, “excessive exposure to oxidant stress via pollutants or ultraviolet irradiation is associated with depleted Vitamin C levels in the skin.”
Kisses Discoloration and Scarring Goodbye
Acne, blemishes, or other skin conditions can leave behind discoloration or scarring along the face if the skin is unprotected. However, Vitamin C can help promote a more balanced complexion and slowly fade discoloration or scarring.
How To Use Vitamin C Serums
How can you implement Vitamin C in your routine? First, it may be wise to introduce it to the skin slowly and avoid pairing it with other active ingredients until you see how well your skin tolerates it.
Other helpful tips include applying Vitamin C in the morning and following it up with SPF.
Patch Test
While Vitamin C is a generally well-tolerated ingredient, it will be wise to conduct a patch test. A patch test will determine if you are allergic to your particular Vitamin C product or if your skin can adjust to it without issues.
Apply in the A.M.
You can slowly build a tolerance for Vitamin C by using it a few times a week and working up to daily use.
Harvard Health Publishing claims to use Vitamin C “during your morning skincare routine, use a gentle cleanser and apply a few drops of a Vitamin C serum to the face and neck.”
Follow Up With SPF
After you’ve applied your Vitamin C serum, you’ll want to add a moisturizer and SPF on top. Most Vitamin C serums pair well with sunscreen, offering complete protection against the sun’s harmful rays. However, remember to reapply SPF every few hours.