Welcome readers, to Vitamin C (and no, I’m not talking about that delicious smoothie from your local juicer) I’m talking about the powerhouse topical skincare ingredient, professionally known as L-ascorbic Acid.

As an acne sufferer my whole life, you can image the amount of ingredients I’ve gone through to help reduce the scarring, redness, and oiliness on my skin. Without a doubt, vitamin C is a constant, and one of my favorites in my routine. So, what exactly makes Vitamin C as great as I say? Let’s get straight into it!

BENEFITS OF VITAMIN C

Protection Against Free Radicals

“Free rad-What does that even mean?” Unfortunately, environmental stressors, such as UV radiation (sunlight) and pollution can damage our skin. These stressors generate little troublemakers, called Free Radicals, which are unstable molecules that damage our perfectly healthy cells, contributing to premature ageing, hyperpigmentation, and dullness. So then, how do we stop this? – enter Vitamin C – a powerful antioxidant that fights off these free radicals and stops them from damaging the skin.

Brightens The Skin’s Complexion

Melanin, the pigment responsible for giving our skin its color, can sometimes work overtime and create too much pigment, resulting in hyperpigmentation on the skin. Believe it or not, Vitamin C works directly with the cells that produce melanin and aim to put a stop to this process. By reducing melanin production, the skins complexion is improved, revealing a more radiant, healthier looking skin.

Stimulates Collagen Production

Collagen is what keeps our skin looking young. But as we get older, our bodies make less of it, resulting in skin that looks saggy or wrinkled. Luckily, with regular use, vitamin c actually tells the skin to make more collagen, helping maintain the skins elasticity and firmness.

Protects Against UV Damage

While sunscreen will always be the main defense against sunlight, vitamin C acts as a supportive buddy. When used in conjunction with a sunscreen, Vitamin C enhances the protection against UVB Rays, which causing burning to the skin. So, incorporating Vitamin C into your morning routine will maximize the protection against the sun, keeping the skin healthy and strong.

Reduces Inflammation & Redness.

Regular use of Vitamin C can help calm redness, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. Whether you’re like myself and battle with post-acne flare ups, or you have sensitivity from the sun, Vitamin C will work with your skin to promote healing and repair.

HOW TO USE IT IN YOUR ROUTINE

  1. Serums: apply a few drops in the morning, onto clean, dry skin. Don’t forget to use SPF after.
  2. Moisturizers: look for moisturizers with a Vitamin C infusion, or ones with an “added brightening boost”. This can be used morning and night.
  3. Masks: treat yourself weekly to a Vitamin C mask, whereby you leave it on for 10-15 minutes before washing it off.

In conclusion, not only does Vitamin C taste great, but it has a powerful effect on our skin. It fights off free radicals, improves the youthfulness of the skin and keeps our skin looking even, healthy and glowing!