Vitamin C For My Skin? Yes Please!
Honestly, is there anything Vitamin C isn't good for? Maybe not a paper cut (ouch), but other than that it's pretty stellar stuff in all its forms. Naturally, as a Licensed Esthetician, one of my favorite Vitamin C forms is a skin strengthening serum. Here's why:
VITAMIN C PLAYS DEFENSE
Yep, it protects the skin against free radicals. Environmental pollutants cause damage to our skin cells. Fortunately, the benefits of Vitamin C in skin care help protect against this damage which slows visible signs of aging. Free radicals are chemically unstable, unpaired electrons that hunt down other electrons in an effort to stabilize themselves. All body cells are vulnerable, but our skin cells take the brunt of the damage which eventually shows up in the mirror.
VITAMIN C CREATES A BEAUTIFUL GLOW
Vitamin C inhibits an enzyme called tyrosinase. Tyrosinase is responsible for converting tyrosine into melanin (pigment). Using a good quality Vitamin C serum topically helps prevent hyperpigmentation (dark spots). Since our skin is the last organ to benefit from eating foods high in Vitamin C, it doesn't get enough through foods and we must support the skin with a topical Vitamin C product.
Vitamin C, which requires routine use to maintain results, visibly brightens by evening out skin tone as well as strengthening the skin. Strong skin is better able to retain moisture and regulate melanogenesis, which in turn becomes balanced. Balanced melanogenesis means clear, even toned skin and any discoloration fades. Pretty cool series of events, right?
THERE'S A C FOR EVERYONE
A potent antioxidant and key player in collagen formation, Vitamin C comes in multiple forms whose benefits work for every skin.
L-Ascorbic Acid (a chirally correct form of Vitamin C) is the purest form of Vitamin C and provides superior antioxidant defence compared to any of the other forms of Vitamin C. For me, this is the "go to" ingredient in any Vitamin C formulation, and has been used for many years to control melanin synthesis. Using the chirally correct form (L) of Ascorbic Acid is best, as our skin cells recognize that form and process it very effectively.
Newer stabilized forms of Vitamin C including magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, ascorbyl glucoside, and tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate are used to control melanogenesis (our skin's melanin production factory). All of these derivatives have been shown to inhibit tyrosine synthesis and activity.
VITAMIN C FAQs
IS ANYTHING BETTER THAN VITAMIN C?
Over time, preventative Vitamin C (originally introduced in skin care as a power preventative) visibly improves skin clarity, skin texture, and the appearance of fine lines. It is a mainstay of an age fighting home skin care regimen. It is also very helpful in repairing and strengthening acne skins.
I'M A DIY GIRL ... CAN I CRUSH VITAMIN C TABLETS AND RUB THE PASTE ON MY FACE?
No. No, you can't. Manufactured products are scientifically engineered with formula stability, skin structure, skin pH, and safety in mind. It is highly likely that not only will you burn your skin, you'll reap zero benefit and face months of barrier repair.
I'M A MULTITASKER ... CAN I APPLY MY AHA AND RETINOL PRODUCTS WITH MY VITAMIN C?
With an AHA (alpha hydroxy acid), yes you can but with caution. Be sure to follow the product manufacturer guidelines. Some manufacturers have specially balanced formulas that mesh retinol with Vitamin C, but that is a proprietary balance of chemistry that should not be assumed for two separate products. When in doubt, ask. But I do recommend sticking to Vitamin C in the morning and your retinol at night. During the day, commit to a broad spectrum sunblock to prevent photodamage.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I APPLY MY VITAMIN C SERUM?
Decide whether you want to apply your Vitamin C in the morning or the evening, and stick with it. I recommend using it every morning, since it boosts your skin's UV protection. Be sure to also apply your SPF.
HOW QUICKLY SHOULD I SEE VISIBLE RESULTS?
Everyone's routine and skin condition is different, but you may see visible improvement in skin texture, color and tone within a few days. Lines and wrinkles can take several months to improve significantly if your home routine is complete.
Now that you know your Vitamin C, check out our top selling Vitamin C packed products for optimal skin health:
Rhonda Allison C-Stem Cell Serum | $79
Vital Therapy Vitamin C with Caffiene | $95
VITAMIN C PRO TIP: SPF and antioxidants are BFFs. UV light attacks collagen and elastin, but an extra dose of antioxidants can help stave off oxidative byproducts at the pass.
Need to pick up product or book your next treatment? Click Here
Want to order your product online? Click Here
