We all know that we need to take daily vitamins and supplements for optimal health, and our skin care routines are no exception. A glass of orange juice may boost your immune system, but what exactly does vitamin C do for your skin? From powerful antioxidants to lightning-fast hyperpigmentation busters, learn all about this popular ingredient and why it deserves a spot in your portfolio. Benefits of Vitamin C. Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a multifunctional molecule that’s proven to help protect, brighten, and firm the skin. Known as the gold standard antioxidant, nationally certified dermatologist Dr. Ranella Hirsch explains that vitamin C helps neutralize free radicals, unstable atoms that are known to accelerate the aging process. “Vitamin C prevents cell damage by stabilizing free radicals caused by pollution, UV rays, smoking, sugar, and stress, and as if its protective abilities weren’t enough, vitamin C is also ideal for shaving off dull, dark spots and brightening your complexion.” It fades discoloration. Eliminates spots and brightens your complexion. Whether you suffered from severe sun damage during the summer or are suffering from post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation due to age spots, taking vitamin C regularly can help alleviate the situation. “It inhibits
reducing melanin production in the skin, helping to lighten areas of pigmentation and even out skin tone,” adds Deer.
How to Use Vitamin C?
Vitamin C is found in a variety of products, from cleansers to serums to face scrubs. The ingredient comes in different strengths and concentrations, so all skin types — even acne-prone and sensitive skin — can benefit from it. While it can be used daily, start with 3-4 times per week and increase if you want to be safe.
While vitamin C is most often used in the morning, Hirsch tells us it also has a place in your afternoon skincare routine. “Vitamin C helps with cellular turnover, which happens frequently, especially at night.”
If you’re looking for a new vitamin C product to add to your routine, check out our Weekend Glow Daily Brightening Moisturizer, a lightweight, non-comedogenic cream that’s packed with not just one, but two stabilized forms of vitamin C to penetrate deep into the skin for a brighter, firmer look.
Does Vitamin C expire?
No matter what product you choose, according to Dr. Hirsch, the most important thing is to find someone who uses the word correctly. The strongest form, L-ascorbic acid, is extremely unstable due to its sensitivity to light and air.
So look for products that come in airtight, opaque packaging, quickly replace the lid after use, and store them in a cool, dark place (not a steamy bathroom) away from direct sunlight. Vitamin C doesn’t have an exact expiration date, but most serums (depending on how much vitamin C is in the formula) are most effective when used within 3 to 6 months of opening.
If your fruits and veggies have turned a dark brown due to oxidation (don’t worry—orange is normal), it’s time to separate. For maximum freshness, try a vitamin C powder, such as the one in Found The Light Vitamin B.
C powder not only ensures its effectiveness lasts longer, but it also allows you to mix this brightening ingredient into any of your other favorite skincare products.
How do I apply vitamin C?
Vitamin C combines well with most other ingredients, but it’s especially effective when combined with these. Niacinamide This is a great combo for acne-prone, dull, and aging skin. Vitamin C brightens the complexion and
boosts collagen production, while Niacinamide smooths pores, reduces inflammation, and increases elasticity. For an all-over brightness, check out this combo in Stroke of Brilliance Brightening Serum.
If you have annoying dark circles, apply our Vacation Eyes Brightening Eye Gel to the eye area. Sunscreen Because Vitamin C is an antioxidant, it fights free radicals and prevents sun damage, thus increasing the effectiveness of your sunscreen. Follow up with a moisturizer with Vitamin C to maximize the protective benefits of Guards Up SPF. Exfoliating Acids (AHA/BHA) This combo works really well because the acids dissolve dead skin cells, allowing the Vitamin C to better penetrate the skin. Share the benefits of our Weekend Glow Daily Brightening Toner, or, if you’re looking for something a little more intense, our Doctor’s Visit Instant Revitalizing Mask. Retinol* This powerful combo works to inhibit and protect against environmental influences. However, to avoid possible irritation, they should not be combined alone. Instead, look for products that already contain both ingredients.
