The importance of vitamin C in skincare

Have you noticed recently an increase in advertisement for vitamin C in skincare products in magazines, on social media etc.? It seems that vitamin C is the new superfood and it is not surprising. 

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We all know the benefits of vitamin C for our health for boosting the immune system. This vitamin contributes also to the normal functioning of the immune system and the protection of our cells from oxidative stress. It helps reduce fatigue and exhaustion.

Where to find vitamin C

Vitamin C is found in a variety of fruits and vegetables 

In citrus fruits – orange, grapefruit, lemon 

In berries – strawberry, blueberry, raspberry etc.

Other fruits like guava, kiwi

There are other sources of Vitamin C found in red bell peppers, green bell peppers, broccoli, brussel sprouts, tomatoes, cabbage, cauliflower, potatoes, and green peas.

How to incorporate vitamin C in skincare

Vitamin C or Ascorbic acid (also known as L-ascorbic acid) is the most stable and effective form of vitamin C in skin care and is available in powder form.

Liposomal Vitamin C which is known as sodium ascorbate transports the vitamin into the bloodstream and the cells which offers a better way to absorb Vitamin C. You can read more about it here.

There are a lot of skincare products that contain Vitamin C such as cleansers, toners, or moisturizers, but using serums according to dermatologists is the best way for reaping the benefits of vitamin C.

Skin experts recommend applying vitamin C serums in the morning before leaving the house. 

When exposed to light, vitamin C becomes less effective. Therefore, allowing the vitamin to absorb into your skin is vital. However, vitamin C can be used at any time of the day. Make sure to apply it on freshly cleansed skin, before applying a moisturizer.

Vitamin C when incorporated in a serum and applied to the skin is beneficial even when used in low concentration.

Benefits of Vitamin C for your skin

Vitamin C has many benefits as it is very well known for its antioxidant benefits for skin health when it is applied topically. 

1. Vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation which is important for the functioning of the skin, gums, bones and cartilage. Vitamin C decreases as we age leading to a loss of collagen loss of collagen and elastic fibers in the dermal layers. As a result, skin gets drier and forms wrinkles.
2. Apart from its anti-aging benefits, vitamin C has a wound-healing effect due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It helps 
3. Minimizes the appearance of dark spots, hyperpigmentation and reduces dullness 
4. Helps skin retain moisture
5. Increases the production of collagen
6. Boosts skin cell regeneration
7. Fight free radicals

Although topical forms of vitamin C have shown positive effect on the skin, it is important to get it essential vitamins through diet. Vitamin C or Ascorbic acid is often added in mall amounts of to foods to prevent oxidative damage.

DIY vitamin C serum for soothing irritated skin

This homemade serum contains the nourishing benefits of vitamin C combined with the moisturizing properties of aloe vera which helps to soothe irritated or inflamed skin.

Ingredients:

• 1 tsp. Vitamin C powder (pure and vegan friendly)
• 1 tsp. rose water
• 1 Tbs. Aloe Vera Gel
• 1 tsp argan oil
• 1/4 tsp. Vitamin E Oil
• 5 drops frankincense or lavender essential oil

Instructions:

Place the ingredients together in a small bowl and whisk until everything is completely dissolved.

Pour the mixture into a dark amber bottle with a pipette for storage.

Use the serum before bedtime after washing the face and using a toner (I use rose water as my toner). Apply the serum and then a moisturizer. This serum is thick in consistency, and a little goes a long way.

Serum made with Vitamin C should be stored in an amber glass bottle. Exposure to light and air leads to a breakdown in Vitamin C, so it is best stored in dark glass bottles to help preserve its stability and efficacy.

For those who have a sensitive skin, allergic reactions to vitamin C may occur if used in higher concentration. Therefore, it is advisable to start with lower concentrations of vitamin C.

My favorite vitamin C serum for a brightening effect and for tight pore. Purchase it here.

Do you use skincare products that contain vitamin C? share your best vitamin C skincare products with us.

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