Everything from what it is, the benefits it has on your skin and the best products to buy now – there’s more to vitamin C than delicious gulps of orange juice.
As we say that beauty comes from the inside-out; vitamin C is the exact beauty product standing by that. Applauded for its skin rejuvenating qualities, this effective yet small-packaged product is said to brighten, plump, and even out the skin. Though indulging in foods rich in vitamin C may do the trick – it’s also best to timely apply it to your skin to see a difference.
With hundreds of products swearing to give you the perfect skin, we have narrowed down all you need to know about this miracle vitamin – including all the best serums for this season.
So, what is Vitamin C?
Temperatures in the Spring can swing back and forth, where even the sunniest of days can be followed by an afternoon of stormy weather. Most often, extreme weather changes can stress our skin, which is where vitamin C steps in. It acts as a protective layer on our skin, retaining moisture – which ultimately leads to brighter looking skin.
Vitamin C, also known as L-ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that is naturally present in citrus fruits and green leafy vegetables. It’s involved in many body functions including the formation of collagen, absorption of iron, wound healing, and the maintenance of cartilage, bones, and teeth.
What does it do?
Some may turn to effervescent vitamin C tablets or capsules but nowadays, it’s seen as one of the most popular skincare ingredients. When applied to the skin, the vitamin is said to prevent pigment (melanin) production, essentially fighting against hyperpigmentation.
Daily use of a vitamin C serum for at least three months can improve the appearance of fine and coarse wrinkles around the face and neck. And, to top it all off, vitamin C protects the skin from harmful ultraviolet rays when used in combination with ferulic acid and vitamin E.
Will it work for me?
With all skincare, there’s always the risk that the ingredients may not work for you and your skin. Those with dry, sensitive, or acne-prone skin can surely give vitamin C skincare a try, but this all depends on the formulation. What works well to trial is a vegan product or a formula with not as many acids and excess ingredients. By doing this, you’ll get to see which ingredients may cause a flare-up with your skin.
However, it’s also best to note that vitamin C is non-comedogenic. Even if you intend to start with a low concentration – the gradual and consistent application will give your skin enough time to adapt, and sometimes, it is usually well tolerated by sensitive skin.
Why a serum and not a moisturiser?
You may be wondering why serums and not a facial wash, moisturiser or toner. The answer is – a) serums often include fewer filler ingredients, and b) they are higher in vitamin concentration. The most effective way of delivering the desired ingredient to the skin is via its natural form – which is why serums work best.
Storage tips
Remember to always choose serums that are in airless, solid colour bottles to prevent any sunlight from seeping in. With too much light exposure, this damages the fragile compounds in the serum. Vitamin C serums should also be kept in cool, dry places. You may even want to try storing them in the fridge. This way, they will last longer, and the ingredients will remain active for a longer period of time.
Gen-Z picks:
Drunk Elephant C-Firma Day Serum: Click here to purchase
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic: Click here to purchase
Clinique Fresh Pressed Vitamin C Serum: Click here to purchase
Tatcha Violet-C Brightening Serum: Click here to purchase
Kora Organics Noni Bright Vitamin C Serum: Click here to purchase
The Ordinary Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution: Click here to purchase
Dr Dennis C+ Collagen Vitamin C Serum: Click here to purchase
