Vitamin C: an anti-oxidant powerhouse!

It’s national vitamin c day and we’re here to educate you on what makes vitamin c such an important part of your skincare routine.

Vitamin C, also known as L-Ascorbic Acid can be synthetically derived or found naturally in fruits and vegetables. It is known for its powerful antioxidant benefits. In its pure form, it helps neutralize free radicals to protect against oxidative stress and provides visible anti-aging benefits. (1)

Why is Vitamin C important?

Vitamin C is beneficial in protecting the skin from external damage and improving visible signs of aging. Using a topical vitamin c serum on your skin can help replenish the skin’s supply enhancing its protection against environmental assaults such as UVA/UVB rays and pollution.(1)

Benefits of Vitamin C:

Boosts Collagen (2)

Neutralizes free radical damage, helping to prevent premature signs of aging. (3)

Safe for most skin types (4)

Hydrates and Brightens (4)

Why is Vitamin C good for your skin?

As the skin is the largest organ of your body, it serves an important function in protecting your body against the external environment and protects it from pathogens and UV rays. As our bodies cannot synthesize or produce its vitamin c, it must be acquired through diet or supplements. (1)

Vitamin C & Aging Skin:

The natural aging process and external aggressors such as UV rays, infrared radiation, pollution, and visible light contribute to visible signs of aging such as fine lines, wrinkles, laxity, and loss of firmness.

Studies show that premature signs of aging caused by free radical damage can be combated by vitamin c antioxidants. Vitamin C can also help correct visible signs of existing damage like fine lines, wrinkles, discoloration and loss firmness. (1)

How to select the right topical Vitamin C:

Make sure the topical vitamin c you choose is formulated with pure vitamin c (l-ascorbic acid) in a high concentration at 10-20% and that it’s pH level is acidic, below 3.5 pH. Topical vitamin c can come in many forms such as a serum or gel.

If you don’t feel comfortable selecting this crucial product on your own, schedule a consultation with your Skincare Specialist who will recommend a product perfect for you!

How to apply Vitamin C:

Apply vitamin c in the morning to a clean, dry face using a light tapping motion until absorbed. Always be sure to follow up with a broad spectrum sunscreen for the most efficient protection against environmental damage.

A few of our favorite Vitamin C products:

Sources:

SkinCeuticals

“Topical Vitamin C” via National Center for Biotechnology Information

“The role of antioxidants in photoprotection” via NCBI

“Vitamin C in Dermatology” via NCBI