In the last year Vitamin C products have flooded the market. For those of you who have not yet tried it or who might be sceptical as to what can be achieved by using it, I have rounded up the 3 key benefits that outline why this ingredient has reached holy grail status.
Key Benefits
Powerful antioxidant
Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant which can neutralise free radicals in the skin. In layman terms what this means is that it assists in the cell regeneration process which helps your body to repair damaged skin cells. "The free radical theory of ageing (FRTA) states that organisms age because cells accumulate free radical damage over time...For most biological structures, free radical damage is closely associated with oxidative damage." Hence why antioxidants are so key to incorporate into both our skincare and nutritional routines, they both help to keep premature ageing at bay and can also help ward off pre cancerous cells from forming.
Boosts collagen production
When Vitamin C is applied topically to the skin the interaction is highly acidic (although superficially all you should normally feel is a light tingle when applying your chosen product). The outcome of this acidic interaction, is that this triggers your skin into healing mode by accelerating the production of both your collagen and elastin levels. It is worth noting that the efficacy of the ingredient is also maximised when combined with other antioxidants such as Vitamin E or ferulic acid. Many of the best serums, often combine Vitamin C with one of these two ingredients, if not both. Keep reading to see my favourite picks below.
Corrects hyperpigmentation
One of the other benefits which comes from using an acidic product, is that is also helps to resurface the skin by speeding up cell turnover (which is a process that slows down as we age) - encouraging skin to shed dead cells, keeping your complexion bright and glowing. Vitamin C also has a special function whereby it inhibits your skin's melanin production without affecting your skin's normal pigmentation. What this means, is that areas where one might be experiencing hyperpigmentation or dark spots can be corrected with Vitamin C. This is turn does not alter the usual pigmentation or colour of your skin.
When to use it?
Having reaped the benefits of this amazing ingredient myself, I hope this blog post helped to shed light on some of the incredible benefits of Vitamin C.
I personally have incorporated this into my morning routine, in the form of a serum, as serums are typically more concentrated forms of skincare. I would advise, you cleanse, tone, apply your Vitamin C serum and then moisturise.
See below to check out our #SkinFood favourite products!
Mad Hippie
Vitamin C serum with Ferulic Acid
After reading rave reviews I decided to give this serum a try and can attest that it delivers exactly what it says it will; brighter and more youthful looking skin. This product can also be purchased on Amazon where it has an almost 5 star rating, and is listed amongst Amazon's choice products. Click to the image to the left to be redirected to Mad Hippie's website or purchase on Amazon.
Sunday Riley
C.E.O Glow
This has been a holy grail product for me, which never fails to deliver a healthy glow whilst also keeping my skin hydrated and balanced. To grab your bottle, click the image to be redirected to Sunday Riley's website, this product can also be purchased on Cult Beauty and from many other retailers.