Vitamin C is an ingredient used in oral care, but not only. It has beneficial effects for health, but also an essential role for treating skin-related problems. That is why it is found among the ingredients most recommended by dermatologists that help reduce pigment spots and acne, prevent premature aging of the skin and reduce the harmful effects caused by the sun. It is essential in the care routine and can be used in combination with other beneficial compounds for the skin. The best vitamin C for the skin is the one that contains L-ascorbic acid, the pure form of vitamin C, in a concentration of 10-20%, stabilized to prevent oxidation. Discover in this article what vitamin C is, what are its benefits for the skin and how to use it in the care routine to obtain the desired results.
1. What is Vitamin C?
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, acts as an antioxidant that protects cells against the signs of aging and the effects of free radicals. Also, this skin care ingredient stimulates the production of collagen, a key element in maintaining the health of the skin, connective tissues and blood vessels.
2. Forms of Vitamin C
Ascorbic acid
Also known as L-ascorbic acid, it is considered, according to countless researches done on it, the most effective of all forms of vitamin C. This explains why it is possible to find it in most skin care products.
Ascorbic acid in concentrations over 15% is recommended for treating the most persistent skin problems, fighting effectively against free radicals and external factors considered a source of stress for skin health.
Other Forms of Vitamin C
Beyond ascorbic acid, you can also find the following ingredients called vitamin C derivatives in skin care products:
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Ascorbic acid
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Ascorbyl glucoside
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Ascorbyl dipalmitate
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Palmitate of ascorbyl
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Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate
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Magnesium ascorbate
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Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate
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Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate
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3-O-ethyl-ascorbic acid
In general, these derived forms work much better when combined with other antioxidants and with products that improve intracellular communication, among which we list green tea, retinol and niacinamides.
It has been shown that even lower concentrations of vitamin C forms have visible effects and give the skin the same anti-aging properties. For example, researchers claim that a concentration of 0.6% has visible antioxidant effects and helps to slow down the aging process of the skin.
To enjoy the effects of this ingredient with miraculous effects for your skin, you must take into account the fact that antioxidants lose their properties if they are exposed to oxygen and the sun, the rule that also applies to vitamin C. Therefore, you must take care that your products are protected from light, kept in non-transparent packaging, preferably with a pump.
3. Vitamin C Benefits
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Reduces hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation occurs when melanin production is increased in certain areas of the skin, resulting in dark spots. Vitamin C is often used to reduce pigmentation, balancing skin tone and increasing its radiance. This helps to slow down the appearance of signs of aging and prevent pigmentation spots .
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Provides protection against UV radiation
Although this powerful antioxidant for the skin cannot completely replace sunscreen products, it can complement this protection, adding an additional layer against the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Due to its antioxidant property, vitamin C has an essential role in neutralizing free radicals formed after exposure to the sun. These free radicals can damage skin cells, accelerating the premature aging process and favoring the appearance of problems such as pigment spots and wrinkles.
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Restores skin elasticity
Over time, the natural production of collagen decreases, leading to the loss of skin elasticity and the appearance of wrinkles. Vitamin C for the face is known for its ability to stimulate collagen production by activating the enzymes involved in its formation process. Regular use of an antioxidant product (vitamin C serum, vitamin C cream) in your skin care routine can help preserve and even restore skin elasticity, visibly reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles - such as ALL DAY VITAMIN VC- IP 1.0 FIRMING SERUM .
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Reduces dark circles
circles they can create the impression of fatigue and premature aging. Vitamin C's remarkable ability to even out skin tone and reduce pigmentation also applies to the delicate skin around the eyes. Adding a serum or cream to your daily skin care routine can help reduce the appearance of dark circles.
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Gives shine
Cosmetic products with vitamin C are known for their ability to add extra radiance to the skin. Often, a cream with antioxidant ingredients is recommended for tired-looking skin, to treat pigmentation spots or signs of aging. Also, a vitamin C serum, such as Jumiso All day Vitamin Brightening&Balancing Facial Serum , can help balance and brighten the skin, while protecting it against oxidative effects throughout the day.
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Reduces redness and irritation
Rosacea can appear due to several factors, including rosacea, acne and skin irritations. A product with vitamin C can contribute to calming redness and irritation due to its anti-inflammatory effect . However, you must remember an important aspect: products with a higher concentration of vitamin C can irritate the skin, especially if it is sensitive. It is recommended that at first you use lower concentrations and see how your skin reacts.
4. How do we correctly choose a cosmetic product with vitamin C?
In the correct choice of a product with vitamin C for skin care, whether we are talking about ascorbic acid or other derived forms presented above, it is important to consider your skin type and the needs it has. There are various concentrations of this antioxidant vitamin that vary from 1% to 30%.
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For people with dry or sensitive skin, a lower concentration of up to 5% is recommended to reduce the possibility of irritation.
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For people with oily skin and pigmentation spots , higher concentrations, of a maximum of 20%, can be much more effective in treating skin problems.
5. Skin products with vitamin C
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serum with vitamin C and hyaluronic acid: VITAMIN C BRIGHTENING SERUM is a serum that restores the brightness and freshness of the skin.
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vitamin C serum: RADIANCE SERUM , with a concentration of 10% vitamin C, offers a younger and brighter appearance to the skin.
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vitamin C cream: VITA TURN ON helps reduce hyperpigmentation spots, leaving the skin bright and clean.
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face masks with vitamin C: MORNING VITA C MASK PACK has an anti-wrinkle effect, revitalizes the skin, prevents the appearance of pigment spots and is suitable for all skin types.
6. With what other ingredients can vitamin C be combined?
Vitamin C can be combined with other ingredients in the care routine:
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Hyaluronic acid: It is a very common combination with hyaluronic acid, because it has the ability to intensely moisturize the skin. Thus, the risk of skin irritation can be reduced, especially in the case of dry or sensitive skin.
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Vitamin E: It is used in combination with vitamin C, because both have an antioxidant effect and protect the skin against free radicals, contributing to maintaining a youthful appearance of the skin. These antioxidants are also known for their moisturizing properties.
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Niacinamide: It can be associated with vitamin C to provide brightness to the skin and to reduce hyperpigmentation.
It is not recommended to associate vitamin C with the following acids:
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Salicylic acid (BHA): This combination can cause irritation. In addition, BHA acids can affect the effectiveness of vitamin C, reducing its benefits.
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AHA acids: Combining AHA acids with vitamin C can increase the risk of irritation and worsen skin dryness, especially for people with dry or sensitive skin.
7. Example of face care routine
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Cleansing: Wash your face with a cleansing gel or foam, suitable for your skin type.
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Toning: Apply a moisturizing toner to balance and prepare the skin for the next steps.
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Serum with vitamin C: Apply the serum (with a concentration suitable for your skin) on the face and neck, avoiding the sensitive area around the eyes.
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Hydration: Apply any moisturizing cream.
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SPF: Apply a cream with a sun protection factor depending on your skin type.
8. Side effects of cosmetic products with vitamin C
Vitamin C can be used for all skin types as long as the right concentration is chosen. However, it is important to know the possible side effects:
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Irritation and redness: Some people may develop mild irritation, redness or stinging, especially in the case of high concentrations.
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Allergic reactions: Sometimes, there are people who can develop allergic reactions. These reactions can vary from mild (itching) to severe (swelling, rashes). The most correct is to test the product first on a small portion of the skin before using it on the whole face.
- Sun sensitivity: Vitamin C can sensitize the skin to solar radiation. For this reason, it is important to apply sun protection in the morning routine, regardless of the season.
9. Frequently asked questions
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Is it safe to use cosmetic products with vitamin C daily?
The daily use of products with this ingredient is recommended to obtain the desired results, but the right concentration must be chosen according to the skin type.
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With which active ingredients can I combine vitamin C in my skin care routine?
You can combine it either with vitamin E, niacinamide or hyaluronic acid. Avoid using it together with AHA/BHA acids.
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Does vitamin C work against pigment spots?
This can reduce the development of hyperpigmentation, such as signs of aging or post-acne scars. It is also a powerful antioxidant that can reduce already existing hyperpigmentation and provide a cleaner appearance to the skin.
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How long will it take until I see the results of using vitamin C products?
The time required to see results differs depending on the type of skin and its problem, but many people see changes after a few weeks of constant use.
- This antioxidant ingredient cannot replace sun protection products, but it can complement this protection. However, it can help to neutralize the free radicals formed after exposure to the sun, thus reducing the risk of damage caused by UV radiation and premature aging of the skin.
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Are vitamin C products safe to use during pregnancy?
In general, cosmetic products containing this ingredient can be used during pregnancy, as they are considered safe. However, it is recommended to consult a doctor or dermatologist before starting any skin care routine during pregnancy.
10. What you need to remember
In conclusion, vitamin C is an essential ingredient in the skin care routine due to its benefits for the health and appearance of the skin.
Vitamin C, used correctly, has the ability to even out skin tone, reduce pigment spots and stimulate collagen production, thus contributing to improving skin elasticity.