Vitamins Series: Let’s Discuss Vitamin C!
What is Vitamin C?
Vitamin C is an antioxidant naturally found in our skin’s dermis and epidermis layer. Higher quantities of it are found in the epidermis. As we age, the percentage of vitamin C found in our skin begins to decrease. This results in dullness, fine lines, and more sun sensitivity. Pollutants can also decrease the percentage of vitamin C in our skin.
What does it do?
It promotes collagen production, prevents photo-aging, neutralizes free radicals, and brightens the skin. Studies show that when vitamin C is used in products at 20% and with a low pH (between 3.0-4.0), it is most effective at brightening.
FAQs:
Can I use it daily? Yes, vitamin C can be used daily depending on how sensitive your skin is and what other active ingredients your routine consists of.
How quickly will I see results? This varies according to your skin’s sensitivity and reaction time, the percentage of vitamin C in your product, and the rest of your routine.
Will vitamin C break me out? If your skin is sensitive, it can dry it out and this may result in a breakout.
When should I use it? Vitamin C can be used day and night. If you use it during the day, it is crucial to wear sunscreen because vitamin C breaks down quickly when exposed to sunlight.
Does the form of vitamin C I use matter? There are 7 forms of vitamin C used in skin care. Some are more stable and less irritating than others. Depending on your skin, one form may work better than another. The most commonly used form is ascorbic acid. Other forms of vitamin c are: ascorbyl palmitate, tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, retinyl ascorbate, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, sodium ascorbyl phosphate, and ascorbyl glucoside.
Can vitamin C burn my skin? Yes, it is an active ingredient and can absolutely burn the skin because of its low pH, which is needed for it to be effective. Avoid using it along with high percentage chemical exfoliants as this can increase the risk of a burn.
