Vitamin C is an important nutrient for several processes in the body, including skin health. It is an antioxidant that fights harmful toxins that come in contact with the skin either externally or from inside the body. Vitamin C can help keep skin healthy, slow early skin aging, prevent sun damage, and improve the appearance of wrinkles, dark spots, and acne. It can also help protect the skin from harmful ultraviolet rays when used in combination with a broad-spectrum sunscreen.
Vitamin C is a popular ingredient in many skin care products, including serums, creams, and cleansers. However, scientific studies testing the effectiveness of vitamin C for skin care are lacking. Different formulations of vitamin C can alter its strength and effects in the skin. The most effective form of vitamin C is pure ascorbic acid, which has consistently been proven to be the most effective at penetrating the skin barrier. Vitamin C effectiveness also increases when combined with other antioxidants, such as vitamin E.
When choosing a vitamin C serum, it is important to look for a clinical formulation that contains an active form of vitamin C (for instance, L-ascorbic acid), has a strength of 10% to 20%, and a pH lower than 3.5. It is also recommended to purchase vitamin C products from a dermatologists office or a verified online retailer.
Possible side effects of vitamin C serum include skin irritation, redness, and dryness. To combat any potential irritation, it is recommended to look for supportive active ingredients, like other antioxidants such as vitamin E and ferulic acid, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide. Ingredients that should not be mixed with vitamin C include benzoyl peroxide, retinol, and alpha-hydroxy acids.
In summary, vitamin C is an important nutrient for skin health and can provide several benefits when used in skin care products. When choosing a vitamin C serum, it is important to look for a clinical formulation that contains an active form of vitamin C, has a strength of 10% to 20%, and a pH lower than 3.5. Possible side effects of vitamin C serum include skin irritation, redness, and dryness, but these can be combated with supportive active ingredients.
