What does Vitamin C do for your skin?

Ascorbic acid, otherwise known as pure Vitamin C, is a powerful antioxidant with a variety of roles in the body. Naturally occurring in many fruits and vegetables, the Vitamin C we absorb from a balanced diet aids us in the normal functioning of the immune system as well as helping skin, bone and teeth health. 

The number of Vitamin C containing skincare products has rocketed in recent years as we continue to understand its role in skin health – but what exactly is Vitamin C good for, and how do we get the most from it? 

What is Vitamin C in skincare good for?

Vitamin C is an antioxidant

Antioxidants work by stabilising free radicals (reactive molecules found in the atmosphere) which can have detrimental effects on the skin. This feature of Vitamin C makes it an excellent ingredient, especially if your skin is often exposed to environmental stresses such as air pollution and cigarette smoke.

Similarly, Vitamin C has been noted to contribute to photoprotection (the natural process that helps our skin cope with damage caused by sunlight). This does not mean Vitamin C has any sort of SPF, more that it helps make our skin healthier, stronger and more resilient. 

Vitamin C is a hydrator and cell regenerator 

All skin needs hydration – oily skin included! Research has found magnesium ascorbyl phosphate (one of the main Vitamin C derivatives used in skincare) has the ability to reduce transepidermal water loss, helping the skin retain moisture.

Vitamin C also has a role in wound healing, aiding the skins’ regeneration process and promoting cell turnover. This is vital in helping the skin recover from any sort of damage, including pigmentation and breakouts. A faster rate of cell turnover means that new, healthy cells are brought to the skins’ surface quicker, giving you a fresh and radiant appearance.

Vitamin C is a collagen booster 

Studies have found Vitamin C to promote collagen formation and stabilisation in the skin. Collagen is a vital skin structure protein that makes our skin plump and youthful. Over time our collagen levels naturally diminish, which contributes to our skin becoming less firm as we age. Incorporating daily Vitamin C into an anti-aging routine can help keep skin radiant for longer. 

How to incorporate Vitamin C into your skincare routine?

You can find a Vitamin C variation in just about every type of skincare product, but which is going to give you the best source of Vitamin C? Using Vitamin C in serum form is recommended as they generally contain Vitamin C and other actives at higher doses than creams. Serums are designed to deliver active ingredients deep into the skin and dry quickly. However, it is important to seal your serum with a moisturiser to help optimise the delivery of the active ingredients. 

Which is the best Vitamin C serum for you?

If you're interested in incorporating Vitamin C into your routine and would like help finding your perfect formula, we're here to help. Join Renude today and connect with a licensed skincare expert to help build you a personalised skincare routine to suit your unique needs and budget.