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Also known as ascorbic acid, Vitamin C is a water-soluble nutrient and potent antioxidant. It plays an important role in various physiological processes, and helps protect the skin against free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause oxidative stress and damage to the skin cells. Furthermore, Vitamin C is involved in collagen synthesis, a protein responsible for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness.
Topical Application of Vitamin C
When applied topically, Vitamin C offers several benefits for skincare. It aids in brightening the complexion, reducing hyperpigmentation and dullness, and improving skin tone. It also inhibits the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for dark spots and uneven skin tone, resulting in a more even complexion.
Additionally, Vitamin C helps mitigate the adverse effects of sun exposure, such as sunburn and photoaging, by neutralizing the harmful free radicals generated by UV radiation.
Although it is considered a safe ingredient for most skin types, it has been found that concentrations above 20% can cause skin irritations.
Recommended products Skinceuticals C E Ferulic Serum:
Collagen Synthesis and Wrinkle Reduction
Vitamin C decreases transepidermal water loss (the amount of water lost due to evaporation through skin), keeping the skin plump and hydrated. In addition, it helps promoting Collagen production, which is responsible for maintaining the skin's structure, elasticity and firmness, preventing the formation of wrinkles.
By increasing collagen and skin hydration, Vitamin C helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and possibly helps diminish under-eye circles, making the skin appear smoother and more youthful.
Recommended products Olay Vitamin C + Peptide 24 Face Moisturizer:
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Vitamin C possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit various skin conditions. It aids in soothing irritated skin, reducing redness, and alleviating inflammation caused by conditions like acne, rosacea, and eczema. Its anti-inflammatory effects contribute to a calmer and healthier complexion.
Recommended products Ren Clean Skincare Radiance Brightening Dark Circle Eye Cream:
Protection Against Environmental Damage
The skin is constantly exposed to environmental stressors such as pollution and UV radiation, leading to premature aging and skin damage. Vitamin C promotes cell turnover, which replaces damaged cells with new ones, and it also acts as a shield, protecting the skin against these external aggressors. Its antioxidant properties help neutralize free radicals, preventing oxidative damage and maintaining a youthful appearance.
Recommended products Sunday Riley C.E.O. Glow Vitamin C and Turmeric Face Oil:
Vitamin C has proven to be a valuable ingredient in skincare due to its versatile benefits and effectiveness. From its role in collagen synthesis to its ability to brighten the complexion, reduce hyperpigmentation, and protect against environmental damage, Vitamin C has become a staple in skincare routines worldwide. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties make it an excellent choice for individuals looking to maintain healthy and youthful-looking skin.
Sources
Telang, Pumori. Indian Dermatology Online Journal, vol. 4, no. 2, 2013, pp. 143-146. Vitamin C in dermatology
Juliet M. Pullar, Anitra C. Carr, and Margreet C. M. Vissers. Nutrients, vol. 9, no. 8, 2017, p. 866. The Roles of Vitamin C in Skin Health
Farris, Patricia K. Dermatologic Surgery, vol. 31, no. 7, 2005, pp. 814-818. Topical Vitamin C: A Useful Agent for Treating Photoaging and Other Dermatologic Conditions
I Bogdan Allemann, L Baumann. September, 2008; 13(7):5-9. Antioxidants in Skin Care Formulations
Firas Al-Niaimi, MRCP and Nicole Yi Zhen Chiang, MRCP. July, 2017; 10(7): 14–17. Topical Vitamin C and the Skin: Mechanisms of Action and Clinical Applications
Mayo Clinic. (n.d). Wrinkle creams: Your guide to younger looking skin Print
Harvard Medical School. June 12, 2018. Skin serum: What it can and can’t do
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