Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid as it is also called, is a water-soluble, biologically active compound that acts as a powerful antioxidant. This trace element not only strengthens the immune system, as was already known, but also protects us from viruses and bacteria, accelerates wound healing, regulates metabolism, increases the body’s ability to withstand stress, participates in the synthesis of a number of hormones, cleanses the body of toxins, and also helps to recover after many diseases.
In addition to all the things that vitamin C does on its own, it also helps other ingredients work better, especially the hyaluronic acid. In addition, vitamin C slows down the aging process in the body and is an important component of tendons, bones, teeth, ligaments, blood cells, and of course, skin. When vitamin C levels are normal, it protects us from free radicals. Free radicals lead to loss of skin tone and elasticity, the formation of wrinkles, and a dull complexion.
Why is vitamin C good for facial skin?
We have just seen that vitamin C acts against free radicals. Due to the active production of collagen in the dermis, it accelerates the regeneration of tissues responsible for the elasticity and firmness of the skin. More importantly, it protects our skin from ultraviolet rays and their aggressive effects, which destroy the fibers of the skin and cause premature aging. Unlike other trace elements, vitamin C is not synthesized in the body and requires constant replacement. This can be obtained with foods such as bell pepper, parsley, citrus fruits and a complex of vitamins.
The problem is that when vitamin C enters the body, the most important organs break it down and use it and in general it does not always reach the skin, and if it does, it is in very little quantity. Therefore, it is very important to make up for its deficiency, either with natural products or with the cosmetics that are now abundant in the market. Among other things, vitamin C fights age spots and uneven skin, restores its radiance and healthy appearance, and also restores vitamin E, which prevents oxidation, retains moisture in the skin, and promotes cell renewal.
Vitamin C can be found in serums, creams, masks, and scrubs that provide excellent antioxidant benefits. Ascorbic acid hydrates the skin, evens out the complexion and effectively combats acne marks. Experts advise choosing products with a vitamin C concentration of up to 20% and applying them at night before going to bed. You can also apply it in the morning to protect your skin throughout the day, but in this case the concentration should not exceed 15%.
How to use a vitamin C serum and reap its benefits
With a few drops of serum on the face after washing and drying it is enough. We recommend using it every morning, throughout the year. Vitamin C has benefits with sun exposure, so it helps to apply it in the morning as a first layer of protection.” It is important to apply a layer of moisturizer and sunscreen.
Always store the bottle in a cool, dark place away from extreme heat, such as a bathroom cabinet or even in the fridge. “Storing a vitamin C serum correctly is critical to its success,” says dermatologist Schlesinger. “A good rule of thumb is to throw out the serum six months after it has been opened and keep the serum in a cool, dark place.” If you use it according to the instructions, you’ll likely finish it before the six months are up. If not, maybe it’s better to try a new one. “When vitamin C is used beyond its shelf life, it can actually have negative effects,” says Schlesinger.
Potential Side Effects and Risks of Vitamin C Serums
Vitamin C is a safe ingredient and generally well tolerated.
Most of the studies that have been done on vitamin C on the skin show that the study subjects had no irritation or negative reactions. The only exception is people with sensitive skin. A 2015 study published in Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology found that 6 percent of study participants experienced itching, which researchers said was likely due to the acidity of vitamin C. Schlesinger says people with very sensitive skin should consult a dermatologist before using it, as some potent forms of vitamin C can sometimes irritate sensitive skin.
According to the Indian Dermatology Online Journal study, a vitamin C serum can cause yellowing of the skin or clothing, stinging, or dryness, although such effects are extremely rare. Researchers advise people to be careful when applying it around the eyes.
Best Vitamin C serum in Pakistan
Vitamin C serum is one of the more common forms you can find on store shelves because it is a more concentrated product. After washing and toning the skin, gently apply a couple of drops of the serum to the dry skin of the face and wait 5 to 10 minutes for the product to absorb and not interfere with other care.
For the skin around the eyes, we recommend that you choose a vitamin c and hyaluronic acid serum designed specifically for this area. Once the serum is absorbed, you need to apply a moisturizer day or night, depending on what time of day you use the vitamin C serum, and don’t forget about SPF protection if it’s morning time. If you have sensitive skin, it is better to start with a serum that does not exceed a 5-10% concentration of vitamin C. From 20%, vitamin C is considered acidic and already works as a peel. It is important to prevent oxidation of the serum: its dark color will give you a clue, but with regular use it will simply wear off in time and will not have time to oxidize.
