Vitamin C, also commonly known as ascorbic acid, is a vitamin that is quite important for the health of your skin. Unfortunately, us humans can’t create vitamin C on our own and therefore have to look to other sources to get an adequate amount of this essential nutrient.
In the vast landscape of skincare ingredients, Vitamin C shines brightly as a powerhouse for achieving radiant, youthful skin. It is a science-backed, favorite ingredient that may help slow early skin aging, prevent sun damage, and improve the appearance of wrinkles, dark spots, and acne.
Types Of Vitamin C
Pure Vitamin C (L-absorbic Acid)
Pure vitamin C, also known as L-ascorbic acid, is a potent and refined version of vitamin C. The antioxidant benefits of L-ascorbic acid work to neutralise free radicals and reduce signs of skin damage.
Ascorbyl palmitate
Ascorbyl palmitate is a form of vitamin C that is fat-soluble, instead of water-soluble like pure vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid). It’s one of the few forms of vitamin C that can be delivered in a cream consistency and offers the skin an effective dose of antioxidative skin protection and repair.
Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate
A stable, oil-based form of vitamin C, tetrahexyldecyl has emerged as one of the stronger antioxidant supplement formulations. Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate is also effective on sensitive and damaged skin without causing further irritation as it is able to deeply penetrate skin, more effectively delivering its benefits.
Vitamin C with bioflavonoids
Bioflavonoids are a collection of plant-based compounds which can be found in food such as certain fruits and vegetables. A potent antioxidant, bioflavonoids help transport and enhance the benefits of other antioxidants such as vitamin C.
Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is revered for its ability to neutralize free radicals, which are unstable molecules that cause oxidative stress and skin aging.
When choosing the most effective form of vitamin C to incorporate into your skin care routine, understanding the form used within the formula is key to achieving effective results. It is important to remember that while derivatives of vitamin C can be absorbed into the skin, they will not always convert into active vitamin C, therefore products that include L-ascorbic acid (pure vitamin C for skin) are preferable.
Key Benefits of Vitamin C
- Brightens Skin Tone: Reduces dullness and promotes a more radiant complexion.
- Fades Dark Spots: Helps lighten hyperpigmentation and age spots for an even skin tone.
- Boosts Collagen Production: Stimulates collagen synthesis, improving skin elasticity and firmness.
- Protects Against Environmental Damage: Shields the skin from harmful UV rays and pollution
Who Can Use Vitamin C?
Most skin types can safely use vitamin C, every day, with a few exceptions. If you have sensitive or reactive skin, always do a patch test first.
Oily may also have a hard time with vitamin C skincare, which is itself sometimes oily, so it may take a bit of trial-and-error before you find the one that is right for you.
And if you have a stable or normal skin type but have never used vitamin C, and you start with a high concentration, expect some irritation.
Our advice? Whenever you’re introducing a new skincare ingredient into your regimen, do it gradually for best results.
How to add Vitamin C to your routine
Whilst we love the benefits of adding vitamin C into our skincare products, your skin can also benefit from including more vitamin C rich foods into your diet. The great news is, there’s plenty of options to choose from.
Some of the best dietary sources of vitamin C include citrus fruits – oranges, grapefruits, lemons & limes. Other sources include strawberries, bell peppers, broccoli, kale, tomatoes and the ever-polarising brussel sprout. Supplementation is also an option, which can be helpful for people who have trouble absorbing the nutrient from food.
In terms of products, serums typically contain concentrated amounts of active ingredients. So when it comes to delivering an optimal amount of vitamin C to your skin, including a serum in your skincare routine is a great way to see the maximum benefits.
Vitamin C is not just a trend but a proven skincare essential. Add it to your routine and witness how it can turn dull, tired skin into a canvas of luminosity and resilience.
Take a closer look at our Solstice - our Vitamin C Serum
Still feeling unsure about if Vitamin C is right for you? Book a virtual skin consultation with our Skin Specialist (and owner!) Jess.