What Is Vitamin C?

Vitamin C is a potent, water-soluble antioxidant that neutralises the free radicals that occur from sun exposure, which can encourage premature ageing. Vitamin C also assists in your skin’s natural regeneration process, which helps your body repair damaged skin cells.

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What Does Vitamin C Do For Your Skin?

Improvement in the Appearance of Fine Lines

Vitamin C has been clinically studied and proven to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. In one 2017 study, consistent and daily use of vitamin C noticeably improved the look of fine lines and wrinkles on the face and neck.

 

Improvement in Skin Texture and Tone

In one double-blind dermatological study, daily use of vitamin C improved the overall appearance—particularly the texture and tone—of skin.


Increase in Collagen Production and Hydration

In that same double-blind study from 2002, biopsies showed an increase in collagen production, an improvement in hydration, and zero evidence of inflammation. Collagen production is directly linked to the firmness of skin, so this noticeable increase in the skin’s collagen production is impressive.

 

Reduction in the Appearance of Dark Spots

The appearance of dark spots can be improved with consistent vitamin C usage, suggests one clinical trial. The majority of participants in the trial saw a noticeable reduction in dark spots, with Vitamin C not only lightening the pigmentation, but also blocking the production of pigmentation altogether.

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Reduction in Acne (and Acne Pigmentation)

Vitamin C can potentially help with the appearance of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which are patches of melanin released by the skin in response to acne inflammation. But additionally, vitamin C has shown promising results in helping reduce acne thanks to the antioxidant’s natural anti-inflammatory properties. In a 2010 clinical trial, participants saw a noticeable reduction in acne when vitamin C was applied morning and night. The study notes this improvement is likely from vitamin C’s anti-inflammatory properties that can potentially control sebum production within the skin.


Improves Sunscreen’s Efficacy

Vitamin C and SPF are best friends, a dynamic duo that, when worn together, can better neutralize free radicals from sun exposure. In a 2008 clinical study, vitamin C was shown to protect better from harmful UV rays when combined with broad-spectrum sunscreen. Long term, vitamin C can even prevent damage from sun exposure, noted another study.

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What to Look for in a Vitamin C Product

Vitamin C is incredibly sensitive to sun, heat, and light. Any exposure to these elements will cause it to become unstable and ineffective, notes one study. Look for a product that is in protective packaging, including tinted or completely covered—this will shield the product from light. And a pump, versus a dropper (which will expose the formula to the elements) is great, too.

 

Are There Skin Types That Should Not Use Vitamin C Serum?

While almost all skin types can benefit from using vitamin C skincare products, those with sensitive skin may experience redness or allergies. Begin by spot testing to ensure no negative irritation occurs, then incorporate a lower concentration of vitamin C into your skincare ritual and concurrently build up to the suggested usage on the packaging.

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What Should You Use with Vitamin C Skincare Products?

SPF is always the essential last step of any skincare regimen. Using vitamin C can potentially make your skin more sensitive to the sun and UV light, so applying sunscreen becomes even more important. We recommend our newest innovation, The Milky Sunscreen. This chemical SPF 50+ disappears on skin, helps visibly correct signs of UV damage, delivers cellular hydration, and soothes stressed skin. Or try The Silk Sunscreen, our SPF 50 formula that hydrates, visibly evens skin tone, and protects against UVA and UVB rays with 10 percent zinc oxide for mineral, reef-safe filter.

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