Ready to say goodbye to dull, lacklustre skin after a long hot summer? Get your skin back on track with the transformative power of vitamin C.
Radiant healthy skin is a beauty aspiration that knows no bounds. In the quest for a flawless complexion, one ingredient stands out among the rest: Vitamin C. With its ability to promote collagen synthesis, help to shield the skin from environmental damage and combat hyperpigmentation, Vitamin C has, quite rightly, become a skincare superhero.
Why is Vitamin C important for healthy skin?
Vitamin C plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin in several ways. It is a key player in collagen synthesis, the process by which the body produces new collagen fibres that give the skin its firmness and elasticity. As we age, collagen synthesis slows down, leading to the development of fine lines, wrinkles and other signs of ageing. Vitamin C helps to boost collagen synthesis, promoting firmer, more youthful-looking skin.
Perhaps even more importantly, Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that helps to protect against environmental stressors such as pollution and UV radiation. These stressors can cause free radical damage, leading to inflammation, premature ageing and skin cancer.
L-ascorbic acid: the gold standard of Vitamin C
When it comes to Vitamin C in skincare, L-ascorbic acid reigns supreme. This potent form of Vitamin C is highly effective in helping to stimulate collagen production, reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles and minimising the appearance of hyperpigmentation.
Concentration matters
The concentration of Vitamin C in skincare products is a crucial factor to consider. Higher concentrations of Vitamin C generally provide more pronounced results. However, if you have sensitive skin or are new to Vitamin C, it’s advisable to start with a lower concentration, around 10%. Gradually increase the concentration as your skin builds tolerance.
Stability & formulation
Vitamin C is a highly reactive molecule and can rapidly degrade when exposed to air, light and heat. To ensure the product’s stability and efficacy, look for products that utilise advanced delivery systems. A promising new approach is nano-encapsulation. Nano-formulations of Vitamin C help to protect the compound, enhancing its stability and preventing degradation. These nano- encapsulated forms have shown improved chemical stability and have been explored for their therapeutic applications.
Liposomal delivery systems are also utilised to maintain the stability and efficacy of vitamin C. Liposomes are lipid-based vesicles that can encapsulate Vitamin C, protecting it from oxidation and degradation. This delivery system helps to enhance the absorption and bioavailability of Vitamin C.
In addition to nano-encapsulation and liposomal delivery, other advanced techniques include microencapsulation and polymer-based delivery systems. Additionally, packaging plays a crucial role in maintaining stability. Choose products that are packaged in opaque containers to protect the formulation from light and air exposure, extending their shelf life and preserving their potency.
Supporting ingredients
Vitamin C is a potent ingredient on its own ,but combining it with complementary skincare ingredients can amplify its benefits. Look for Vitamin C skincare products that contain additional antioxidants like Vitamin E and ferulic acid. These ingredients work synergistically with Vitamin C to enhance its effectiveness, boost antioxidant protection, and provide a more comprehensive anti-ageing and brightening effect. Niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and peptides are other ingredients that can complement Vitamin C and further enhance its benefits for your skin.
Types of Vitamin C skincare products
Serums
Vitamin C serums are a popular choice when it comes to skincare, as they typically contain high concentrations of active ingredients that penetrate deeply into the skin. These serums are ideal for targeting specific concerns such as hyperpigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles.
Oils
As opposed to serums, which are usually water-based, Vitamin C oils are, well, oil-based. They typically provide more hydration and nourishment to the skin but may take longer to be absorbed. The choice between a Vitamin C serum or oil is usually a matter of personal preference.
Powders
L-ascorbic acid, the purest form of Vitamin C, is more stable in powder form. Vitamin C powder products are meant to be mixed in with a “carrier” product, such as your daily serum or moisturiser. Since the ingredients are not already suspended in liquid, it’s stable for longer and doesn’t degrade as easily.
Moisturisers & creams
Vitamin C moisturisers offer a great option if you’re looking for overall skin renewal and hydration, as they provide a more gradual release of active ingredients over time. These moisturisers are often formulated with other nourishing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and Vitamin E, which work together with Vitamin C to help restore and protect the skin.
Masks
Vitamin C masks are an excellent option for a quick skin pick-me-up. Look for masks that deliver a powerful dose of active ingredients which will work to brighten and revitalise the complexion.
Whatever the type of product you choose, if your skin is a little stressed, dry and dull after the brutal heat of summer, it’s never been a better time to embrace the power of Vitamin C. Its ability to promote firmer skin, help protect against environmental damage and brighten the complexion makes it an essential ingredient in any skincare regimen. CBM
