How Else Does Vitamin C Benefit The Skin
Amazingly, vitamin C’s skin-saving benefits aren’t limited to its antioxidant status. It has plenty of other skin-healing properties that make it worthy of a permanent place in your medicine cabinet. For one, when vitamin C is used topically, because it’s highly acidic, “the skin is triggered to heal itself by accelerating the production of collagen and elastin,” explains New York City-based dermatologist Howard Sobel, M.D. Remember: Collagen and elastin are both naturally occurring protein fibers that help keep skin plump and firm. So, in helping to promote collagen production, topical vitamin C can help prevent premature aging of the skin.
Another cool thing about the ingredient: It contains a property that inhibits your skin’s melanin production, which is what causes skin discoloration like dark spots and hyperpigmentation, Wexler explains. With continued topical use, vitamin C can help prevent dark spots from forming in the first place.
“It’s a superior brightening agent that works to fade brown spots without altering normal skin pigmentation,” Sobel adds.
What Are The Side Effects Of Vitamin C Serum
Some say they experience a tingling or slight stinging sensation when they first apply a vitamin C serum to their skin, this is considered to be a normal reaction and should not last longer than 2-3 seconds. If you find any of the following reactions then it is advisable to not use vitamin C on your skin as it is too potent.
- Tightness to the skin
- Severe dryness
As we regularly suggest when it comes to using new skincare products, it is always best to consult your doctor, dermatologist or skincare professional to ensure the ingredients and formulation are safe to use on your skin. If you are wanting to try another AHA for chemical exfoliation then you can always find out more about what AHAs and BHAs are and how they benefit the skin over on our website.
Dont miss out on more skincare tips and expert advice over on our YouTube channel! Come and find us on The Green Sofa by hitting the subscribe button, you wont regret it!
How Vitamin C Serum Works
To understand how vitamin C works, you first have to understand free radicals. These natural molecules arent bad on their own, but they can become a problem when they build up. In high numbers, they can break cells down over time, contributing to illness and aging.
Antioxidants help fight free radicals, though, keeping everything in balance. Vitamin C is one such antioxidant.
- protect your skin from sun damage
If youre interested in trying vitamin C serum but arent sure how to pick one, dont worry. We rounded up 10 great options for you.
In selecting our top vitamin C serums picks, we looked at:
- Price. We included a range of options to suit many budgets.
- Customer reviews. We looked for serums highly rated by online reviewers.
- Potency. Each product contains at least 10 percent vitamin C.
- Packaging. Vitamin C serum should be packaged in opaque packaging. Otherwise, it can break down when exposed to light, causing it to be less effective.
Its worth keeping in mind that there are different types of vitamin C, and not all of them are equally effective.
We mostly chose products made with:
- L-ascorbic acid
- Key ingredients: glycolic acid, vitamin C
- Key features: cruelty-free, vegan, gluten-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free
- Skin type: oily or combination skin
Why we love it: Vitamin C can be a little unstable, breaking down easily when exposed to light, air, or water. Murad uses gold to stabilize the vitamin C in this serum, which the brand says results in a stronger product.
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When Should You Use Vitamin C Serum
Though dermatologists recommended a few different Vitamin C serums, they do agree on a few things, like when you should apply Vitamin C serum in your skincare routine. Apply your Vitamin C before your moisturizer for the best results, says Annie Tevelin, green beauty expert and founder of SkinOwl. Let it dry for one minute before applying a moisturizer with SPF.
If the serum has turned brown, return it and cease any use of it. Absolutely do not use if it has turned brown.
– Susie Wang, cofounder of 100% PURE
Theres no real consensus among skincare experts on whether youre better off wearing your serum in the morning or at night. Think of it in the daytime as another layer to protect your skin again free radicals and UV, and at night as a way to undo oxidative damage from the day, says dermatologist Tsippora Shainhouse of Rapaport Dermatology. Whenever you wear your serum, Wang recommends beginning with a lemon water rise to prep the skin with a light dosage of Vitamin C to start.
What To Look For When Shopping For A Vitamin C Serum
Keep in mind these factors when shopping for a vitamin C serum.
Because of its popularity, there are a lot of options that make shopping for vitamin C serums a tedious task. One factor you need to consider is the packaging. Look for dark-tinted bottles with tightly sealed covers, since exposure to light and air can degrade the potency of vitamin C. You should also look for formulations that contain ferulic acid and vitamin E because these boost the effectiveness of the antioxidant. And finally, check the concentration. If its higher than 20 per cent, stay away from it since this can cause skin irritation. For folks with more sensitive skin, it’s best to stick with the lower concentrations. Remember: patch test it before applying it on your face!
Now that youre armed with more information about vitamin C, here are some of the best vitamin C serums in Singapore that you could get your hands on ASAP:
For those who have fallen in love with K-beauty, the innisfree Brightening Pore Serum is a great pick. This serum is made with vitamin C and Jeju Hallabong peel extracts. Together, the two improve the skins tone, firmness and elasticity. Plus, the serum also has vitamin B3 and B5 that treat pigmentation. Acne marks? Gone in a pinch. Thanks, vitamin C.
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Vit C And Collagen Synthesis
Vit. C is essential for collagen biosynthesis. It has been proposed that Vit. C influences quantitative collagen synthesis in addition to stimulating qualitative changes in the collagen molecule. Vit. C serves as a co-factor for the enzymes prolysyl and lysyl hydroxylase, the enzymes that are responsible for stabilizing and cross-linking the collagen molecules. Another mechanism by which Vit. C influences the collagen synthesis is by stimulation of lipid peroxidation, and the product of this process, malondialdehyde, in turn stimulates collagen gene expression.
Vit. C also directly activates the transcription of collagen synthesis and stabilizes procollagen mRNA, thereby regulating collagen synthesis. Signs and symptoms of Scurvy, a deficiency disease of Vit. C, are due to impaired collagen synthesis. Clinical studies have shown that the topical use of Vit. C increases collagen production in young as well as aged human skin.
Top Vitamin C Serums For Fading Dark Spots
Ive tried various products for fading spots, including retinoids, hydroquinone, and kojic acid. While these have sometimes worked, I get the best results with vitamin C.
Nothing else works as well to fade dark spots, give me an even skin tone, and an all-around glow. Its not surprising that Vitamin C serums are almost universally recommended by skin care professionals!
Note: This post may contain affiliate links. That means if you click and buy, I may make a commission at no cost to you. Please see my full disclosure policy for more details.
It youre in a rush:
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How Else Can You Get Rid Of Dark Under
First off, you want to book an appointment with your dermatologist. From there, your derm will be able to figure out the root cause of the darkening in the area. Then they can come up with an appropriate treatment plan.
“If the patient has periorbital veins then usually I recommend specific laser treatments to help treat the veins safely and reduce the under eye dark circle appearance,” Dr. Davis says. PicoSure and RevLite are examples. “If a patient has hollow tear troughs, what happens is light can hit the area differently around the eyes resulting in shadows that give the appearance of under-eye circles. Hyaluronic acid fillers, such as Restalyne, are a great and safe option to help restore volume that has been lost.”
There are also more invasive options available. “If a patient has herniated fat pads then usually I will perform a lower eyelid blepharoplasty,” the derm explains. “This will remove the herniated fat pads and smooth out the skin to help improve the appearance of the under-eye area.”
Should You Keep Using Vitamin C If It Changes Colors
In topical skin-care products, vitamin C is sensitive to light and air. When exposed to these factors, it becomes oxidized to dehydroascorbic acid, which is less stable and less efficacious, Dr. Hogan explains. Your vitamin C serum should be colorless or a light straw color if it oxidizes, it becomes yellow or brown and is likely going to be less effective. You can still use it if you want, but it probably wont do as much for your skin and, very rarely, oxidized vitamin C products can even cause slight yellow discoloration of the skin, particularly if you have fair skin, Dr. Hogan adds. So consider getting rid of any vitamin C products that have dramatically changed in color or smell since you bought them. Especially if it is brown, I would say to toss it, Dr. Lamb says.
If you cant find an expiration date and youre unsure of how long its been in the back of your cabinet, its probably best to get rid of it. Dr. Lamb says you shouldnt use active ingredients a year after they have been opened because theyre just no longer effective at that point. Will it harm your skin to use it? Probably not. But you may notice that a trusty vitamin C serum can be pricey, so taking care of your bottle will also help take care of your wallet.
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Where I Can Find Good Sources Of Vitamin
One is in the X3 Revitalizing Stem-Cells Serum, indicated for those with susceptible skin, but want to use a safe way to get rid of dark spots.
Indicated for those with very sensitive skin, but want to use a safe way to get rid of dark spots.
Its loaded with 4% Medical-Grade Vitamin-C Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate a form of Vitamin-C, which is very easily absorbed by the skin, less irritant, promoting firmer skin in shorter time, compared to L-Ascorbic Acid.
Organic Lilac Stem Stem-Cells and Marine Peptides, are also part of this high-performance serum.
That will address not only removing dark spots but also boosting collagen, meaning lessening fine lines and wrinkles.
For those who can tolerate high concentrations of Vitamin-C, the right product for you is the X9 Ultimate Brightening Moisturizer made with 20% Medical-Grade Vitamin-C, which is a very potent and safe way to wash off stubborn dark spots from the skin.
We usually suggest our dear customers associate this moisturizer with the other 2 previous steps. The X9 Advanced Exfoliating Cleanser, and the X9 Brightening Treatment Serum.
Both very complementary to those looking for a Hydroquinone-Free Brightening Skincare Routine.
In the first step, using the cleanser, its possible to clean up the pores deeply, thanks to a 2% Salicylic acid in the formula. On the other hand, pure coconut oil, with antimicrobial and moisturizing properties, avoid the skin to get dry out.
Products featured in this article:
What Are Vitamin Cs Benefits For Skin
As an antioxidant, it helps stop the damaging oxidation process from happening, says dermatologist Dr. Carl Thornfeldt, who founded both Episciences and skin care brand Epionce. Jamal also adds that vitamin C protects the skin from free radical damage, helps with skin elasticity and reduces redness and hyperpigmentation by inhibiting an enzyme that participates in the production of melanin. In short, that means it can reduce dark spots and quell inflammation and fine lines, as well as brighten dull skin.
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Can I Use Vitamin C Serum At Night
Theres certainly no law against using vitamin C products in the evening, but, again, you may get the most benefit from using them in the morning. In general, vitamin C products should be applied in the morning before heading out for the day, when UV radiation is at its highest, Dr. Hogan says. This way, youll be able to reap the benefits of its free-radical-fighting potential.
Ironically, though, vitamin C becomes unstable when exposed to light, so its important to give it time to absorb into your skin before going outside. Just to be safe, give it about five minutes to sink in before you apply your moisturizer and sunscreen and head out the door.
How To Use Vitamin C For Skin Whitening
Vitamin C for Skin Brightening – Get the Facts First:
If youre interested in trying vitamin C tablets, powders or creams to lighten or fade dark sun spots and blotches, there are a few things you need to know for best results.
While taking vitamin C supplements or eating vitamin C rich foods is always a good idea – this article discusses the use of topical vitamin C serums or creams to improve skin tone and lighten or whiten dark spots and discoloration.
Applying pure vitamin C topically to the skin can help suppress skin pigmentation which makes it a great skin lightening agent.
But whether you plan on purchasing vitamin C serums and creams or making your own by crushing vitamin C tablets…here are few facts to consider.
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What’s The Best Way To Apply Vitamin C On The Skin
If youre turning to vitamin C for its lovely skin-brightening and toning perks, its best to look for it in serums. Aside from helping your skin absorb other skincare products better, serums have a high concentration of active ingredients compared to other skincare products. However, even the most potent of serums can be neutralised if paired with the wrong skincare product. If youre going to use a vitamin C serum, avoid using benzoyl peroxide right after. If you also have retinol in your line-up, you’ll find it beneficial to apply vitamin C first but make sure you’re skin’s not too sensitive.
Minimizes Redness And Inflammation
Skin can get red and inflamed for many reasons including acne, sun damage, skin conditions like dermatitis, and allergic reactions to certain medications.
“Vitamin C is an anti-inflammatory, which means it is meant to help reduce skin inflammation and redness,” says Howard Sobel, MD a dermatologic surgeon at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York.
“Anti-inflammatories are necessary for treating skin. And when used topically, like vitamin C, they can improve the skin’s appearance by calming the redness down.”
If your inflammation is caused by a skin condition like rosacea or dermatitis, it’s advisable to start with a low concentration of around 10% to prevent your skin from becoming more irritated.
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Buy Unmixed Vitamin C
I triedmaking my own vitamin C skin products but was never sure of the potency or pHbalance. Plus, my concoction seemed to dry my skin and cause it to peel.
Now I use CFF pH balanced vitamin C Crystal Serum.
This vitamin C comes in a separate vial that is mixed up fresh at home before using it. It also comes with a richly hydrating serum base loaded with antioxidants tohelp support younger skin and collagen production.
With this product I’m guaranteed that the pH is properly balanced andoffers a potent 16% concentration.
This concoctionis pretty potent and very rich, so a little goes a long way covering my face and neck area. So one vial will last about 35/40 days.
NOTE: If youmake you own, dont make too much at one time. After about 35/40 days yourVitamin C serum will start to turn brown.
That means it has oxidized and SHOULDNOT BE APPLIED TO THE SKIN. Throw it out!! And be sure to store it in a dark colored container to prevent oxidation.
What Is Vitamin C
Vitamin C, which also goes by ascorbic acid and L-ascorbic acid, is a vitamin that isnt actually produced by the body. Instead, the only way to get it is through supplements or your diet citrus fruits like oranges are famously rich in vitamin C. And it has vital functions throughout the body. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient in tissue repair and the enzymatic production of various transmitters, says Dr. Patricia Wexler, a dermatologist in New York City.
While you can certainly eat your way to a healthy vitamin C intake, your skin in particular reaps the biggest benefits when its applied topically versus ingested via an oral supplement or your diet, no many how much grapefruit you eat. Topically, its 20 times more potent than the oral intake, says Wexler.
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Best With Spf: Loral Paris Revitalift Bright Reveal Anti
Using glycolic acid, vitamin C, and pro-retinol, LOréals brightening moisturizer will correct existing dark spots, while the SPF 30 will prevent more from popping up. Shoppers say their previously dull skin looks brighter and smoother after just a few applications. After using this product for a week, I feel and see the difference, said one customer. Gone are the patchy dry spots around the eyebrow area and hello glowing skin. While many skincare products with vitamin C can have an unpleasant scent, reviewers rave about this creams subtle citrus fragrance.
Shop now: $14
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