Vitamin C
If there is one ingredient you’ve heard of, it’s likely Vitamin C. It’s widely used in the wellness industry both topically and internally (1). It is a powerhouse ingredient that revitalizes dull or lackluster skin.
In your products, you might see Vitamin C labeled as ascorbic acid or L-ascorbic acid, or you may see a high Vitamin C plant-based blend.
This ingredient is becoming more popular, along with treatments aimed at healing UV and pollution damage. Environmental damage leads to inflammation, and antioxidants such as Vitamin C can mitigate the effects (2).
What is Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that shields your cells from free radical damage allowing your skin naturally regenerate quicker (1). It is essential for immune function and the growth and repair of tissue within the body.
Vitamin C is used in advanced medical treatments and daily cosmetic products (2). It is cited as beneficial in treating cancer, eye dysfunction, heart disease, anemia, and more (2).
What does Vitamin C do for the skin?
Essentially, it enhances your skin by protecting it and allowing regeneration. It’s an overall skin tonic!
Brightens skin tone
Even discoloration such as brown spots or sun damage
Reduces premature aging
It assists our immune system in fighting off bacteria etc.
Increases collagen production
How can I add it to my routine?
Apply your Vitamin C after cleaning your skin and before sunscreen. Using Vitamin C in the morning is best because it will work to protect your skin throughout the day.
If you have sensitive skin, start with a lower percentage of Vitamin C. It is recommended not to blend a Vitamin C-based product with Retinols or exfoliating agents such as AHA’s. You may react to Vitamin C. A reaction would cause redness, burning, itching, or tingling.
Adding a Vitamin C supplement to your diet is also said to benefit the skin and many other essential functions. Always speak to your doctor before adding a supplement to your diet, as Vitamin C can interact with medications.
Products we recommend
Vitamin C is used in a ton of products, and it can be a bit overwhelming to choose one. As an Aesthetician, I only recommend a product if I know it worlds for a variety of skin types.
Our plant-based serums have proven results and gentle, sensitive skin-safe formulations. The Calypso Vitamin C Moisture Elixir is plant-based and made by a woman-owned small business. It contains antioxidant-rich chia seed and moisturizing Jojoba oil. The added CoQ10 helps the skin better absorb Vitamin C. Sea Buckthorn Berry Oil is an unparalleled source of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and Omega 7 that can synthesize collagen and is crucial for skin health.
The CC Serum contains Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin C to target dull skin and improve firmness and skin tone. This energy-packed serum that’s infused with Citrus Stem Cells from orange, which enhances the appearance of skin elasticity.
Of course, because Vitamin C is sun-sensitive, always store your serum out of direct sunlight to protect its potency.
Our PCA products are great for more advanced Vitamin C users. The C&E Strength is a mid to high concentration with impressive results. This cream is great for those who are more adjusted to Vitamin C but still working towards a higher strength.
The C&E Advanced with Hexylresorcinol and Silymarin contains therapeutic levels of Vitamin C and E which work together to increase absorption and healing. The added Hexylresorcinol and Silymarin keep the high-percentage formulation from degrading.
Patricia K. Farris. Topical Vitamin C: A Useful Agent for Treating Photoaging and Other Dermatologic Conditions. 21 March 2006. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1524-4725.2005.31725
Jill S. Waibel. Laser-assisted delivery of vitamin C, vitamin E, and ferulic acid formula serum. 27 November 2015. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/lsm.22448