We hear a lot about Vitamin C because it’s good for your skin and even your body. Vitamin C is one of the vitamins that isn’t produced by the body. So how’s it produced? The only way to get that vitamin is through supplements or your diet. Citrus fruits like strawberry, kiwi, and oranges are highly rich in vitamin C. The vital functions of Vitamin C throughout the body cannot be ignored. This vitamin C is an essential nutrient in tissue repair. It’s involved in other body functions like the formation of collagen, the proper functioning of the immune system, absorption of iron, wound healing, and the maintenance of bones, cartilage, and teeth.
And coming to the benefits for skin, Vitamin C is one of the most effective topical antioxidants in skincare. Vitamin C is an antioxidant, which means it protects skin cells from damaging free radicals caused by harmful UV rays. It also reduces melanin production in the skin, which helps to reduce brown spots and hyperpigmentation. Vitamin C evens out skin complexion, enhances skin tone, and makes it look healthy and refreshing. Vitamin C helps in recovering skin damage that is caused by sun exposure and collagen loss by encouraging healthy cell turnover.
Nowadays Vitamin C products are available in the form of serums, powders, moisturizers, eye creams, masks, and essences. These vitamin C products can be used once or twice daily for best results.
Benefits of vitamin C Serum
Vitamin C comes from various fruits and vegetables. Some of the best sources of Vitamin C are citrus, tomatoes, red and green peppers, and broccoli. Let us take a look at how a Vitamin C serum can benefit us:
- It is safe for almost every skin type:
People can use topical vitamin C without experiencing any allergic reactions. But people who have hypersensitive skin may experience minor irritation. This vitamin C is also safe to use in conjunction with other skincare actives, including retinol, SPF.and alpha hydroxy acids.
- It’s brightening:
Vitamin C helps in fading pigmentation and dark spots. It also reduces dullness and gives you youthful glowing skin. It helps in reducing redness, even out your skin tone, treats a huge variety of inflammatory skin conditions, and gives an even-toned complexion.
- It reduces under-eye and dark circles:
Vitamin C serum helps in smoothing out fine lines by hydrating and plumping the under-eye area. Thus it reduces dark circles and redness under the eye.
As Vitamin C helps in fading pigmentation and dark spots; it is very effective in reducing under-eye and dark circles.
- It protects against sun damage and soothes sunburns:
Sun damage is generally caused by molecules called free radicals. Vitamin C serum is rich in antioxidants. These antioxidants protect healthy skin cells by giving free radicals, rendering them harmless. And in addition to minimizing dark circles, redness, vitamin C boosts cell turnover. Thus, the damaged cells of the body get replaced with healthy ones.
- Boosts wound healing:
As I have already mentioned its effects on sunburn, there is no surprise that vitamin C application can boost overall wound healing. Healthy wound healing reduces your risk for inflammation, scarring, and infection.
Who should use a Vitamin C serum?
From brightening dark spots and helping to protect against UV damage, a vitamin C serum can do a lot for your skin. But the type of vitamin C serum you select, as well as how you use and store it, can majorly affect how much you actually get out of it.
Vitamin C is a potential antioxidant that brightens dark spots, smooths fine lines, and, significantly, scavenges free radicals from the environment, pollution, and UV radiation. Different products out there may contain a wide variety of concentrations of vitamin C. In general, they range from below 5% to 30%. This ingredient can have distinct effects at those concentrations.
Those with dry or sensitive skin may want to go for lower concentrations, around 5%, which are less likely to be irritating.
Now, talking about the people with oily skin – if they are facing pigmentation issues, they can use a Vitamin C serum of higher concentrations.
Factors to consider while choosing a Vitamin C Serum
Deemed essential by all dermatologists, one of the most potent ingredients in skincare is vitamin C serum. No skincare regimen is complete, without, vitamin C. Benefits garnered by topically applying this crucial serum are massive. One such major benefit is, it boosts collagen production in the skin. It is proven that vitamin C is involved in every single step in collagen synthesis. Other benefits include reducing fine lines and brightening dark spots as it defies hyperpigmentation and photo-ageing.
Many get confused upon deciding which vitamin C serum to go for. Here are some factors to consider while choosing a Vitamin C Serum:
1. Concentration
Age plays a significant role in this category. If you are in your 20’s and aim for a lifetime of optimal skincare, you must incorporate vitamin C serum into your regimen. However, the percentage of the C serum may vary according to age. You can begin with a 10%, which is considered low intensity, and work yourself up as the year’s pass. A concentration of 20 to 30 is suggested in a later stage when you hit 40 and above. You will need a concentration that guarantees a boost in collagen production, but not too much that it brings on redness and irritation.
2. Form
Vitamin C serums come in distinct forms or derivatives. The reason behind this being- they’ve been produced to make it more stable and less likely to irritate the skin. Common ones to look out for include L-ascorbic acid, magnesium Ascorbyl phosphate, and Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate. Most serums on the market out there contain vitamin C in the form of L-ascorbic acid. Still, some experts prefer the ester form called tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, which they believe can be more effective.
AA – Ascorbic Acid – highly recommended
THDA – Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate – highly recommended
MAP – Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate
SAP – Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate
3. Stability
Stability is another crucial element you must consider upon choosing a good vitamin C serum. Because of its oxidative nature Vitamin C, in general, is highly unstable. It’s crucial that it is well formulated and has good bioavailability and penetration. Because of its highly oxidative nature, manufacturers came up with vitamin C derivatives; those are more stable and ensure better penetration, efficiency, and minor irritation. Look for a formula with ascorbyl palmitate or sodium ascorbyl phosphate. Those ingredients will maximise the shelf life of your C serum.
Vitamin C Powder vs Serum
Vitamin C is naturally a biologically unstable molecule. It oxidizes upon exposure to air, light, and heat. So the degradation of the molecule is caused when serums or lotions are not stored in cool, dark, and dry conditions that can speed up oxidation. There is no benefit to the skin when the vitamin oxidizes.
Enter vitamin C powder, which is exactly what it sounds like i.e. a powdered version of vitamin C that (as cosmetics makers claim) can be added to any moisturizer and dissolves to have the same effects, without the instability.
Powdered versions of the miracle ingredient solve a clear problem when it is about vitamin C. It is difficult to create serums or creams that don’t come into contact with heat or light, making the effectiveness of these products unpredictable. When the antioxidant is stored as a powder, it is less likely to degrade with light and is more stable.
But the other major reason for the popularity of powdered vitamin C-which you mix at home into your existing skin-care products-is the overall hype around DIY beauty and creating a customized skin-care routine by combining various ingredients.
Know how to store Vitamin C Serum
Pump, dropper, tube, jar – what’s your preference? An airless container is usually optimal. Pumping the product out of the bottle is the fastest and neatest method. It’s also the most hygienic. And most importantly, it’s the perfect way to keep antioxidants fresh.
Sunlight and air (oxygen) degrade antioxidants fast. So the best type of packaging is an opaque (not transparent) or dark bottle that doesn’t allow light in.
Glass bottles with droppers are highly recommended. Because glass is the safest way to store them, acids can react with plastic material.
Sources of Vitamin C at home
Vitamin C can be easily found in many natural sources, including fresh fruits and vegetables. The richest sources include:
- Indian gooseberry
- citrus fruits, like lemons, limes, and oranges
- tomatoes and tomato juice
- potatoes
- green and red peppers
- kiwifruit, strawberries, and cantaloupes
- green leafy vegetables such as broccoli
- fortified cereals
Vitamin C content in food is reduced during long periods of storage as well as by cooking. Cooking losses may be lowered by microwaving or steaming or. Adequate consumption of fruits and vegetables in the raw form usually supplies all the vitamin C that is needed. This corresponds to 5 or more servings of different fruits and vegetables a day.
How to use a vitamin C serum?
Apply vitamin C serum every night before going to bed and wake up with naturally glowing skin.
Step1: Wash your face and pat dry.
Step 2: Take a few drops of Clovia Botaniqa Vitamin C Serum on your fingertips.
Step 3: Apply dots all over your face and neck and massage in a circular motion and let it dry.
When it comes to reducing dark spots and skin-tone balancing issues, vitamin C serum should be your first priority. Vitamin C serum helps to even out your skin complexion and gives you a fresh feeling. It’s an antioxidant and is safe to use. It also helps with tissue repair, keeps your skin healthy and naturally glowing.
Vitamin C serum is generally applied once or twice per day. It’s good to follow these steps.
- Cleanse
- Use a toner
- Apply vitamin C serum
- Then moisturize
Potential side effects and risks
Taking a patch test prior is very important before applying it completely. Because this is the only way to determine how your skin will react to the serum. Some people may experience certain side effects while using a vitamin C serum. Some of the side effects include:
- Itching
- Redness
- A tingling sensation upon application
- Skin irritation
While some people might experience a slight tingling or burning sensation for a while when using the vitamin C serum, it should not last long. If a person experiences continued burning, tingling, or signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives or swelling, they should immediately wash their skin and remove the serum.
If your skin is very sensitive, avoid products that have L-ascorbic acid. Products that have magnesium ascorbyl phosphate are less likely to irritate.
Which vitamin C to buy?
When you are looking to buy a vitamin C serum, you are spoilt for choice. It is very important to buy one which does not contain harmful ingredients and is free of parabens, sulphates, and toxins. Some of the options available are as follows:
1. Clovia Botaniqa Vitamin C Face Serum:
This vitamin C serum is highly rich in natural antioxidants and hydrants making skin brighter, even-toned, and radiant. Made out of all-natural ingredients this serum reduces wrinkles and controls hyperpigmentation and hydrates skin all day long. It also fights ageing by retaining skin elasticity and deep conditioning of the skin.
The special ingredients present in this serum are:
- Vitamin C: It reduces wrinkles, boosts collagen production, and brightens the skin. Vitamin C is an antioxidant, which means it protects skin cells from damaging free radicals caused by harmful UV rays. It also reduces melanin production in the skin, which helps to reduce brown spots and hyperpigmentation.
- Aloe Vera: Controls hyperpigmentation, hydrates the skin, and gives an even skin tone.
- Hyaluronic Acid: Fights ageing by retaining skin elasticity, deeply nourishes the skin, and makes it look healthy & refreshing.
Why Choose Clovia Botaniqa Face Serum?
- Made of All-natural Ingredients
- Toxic-Free
- Vegan Product
- 100% Made in India
- No synthetic materials added
- Essential Oils included
- Purely Ayurvedic
2. Himalayan Organics – Vitamin C Serum with Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin E:
Get that radiant and natural glow with Himalayan Organic’s Vitamin C serum for the face. It is highly enriched with Vitamin E and Hyaluronic acid. This helps in repairing and healing skin that is exposed to harmful UV rays of the sun by lightening and reducing dark spots on your skin and improving your overall complexion. This Vitamin C Serum can be incorporated into your daily skincare plan to help you get naturally glowing and radiant skin.
The special ingredients in this serum are:
- Vitamin C Extracts:
This face serum contains Vitamin C as the main ingredient. Applying Vitamin C to your skin comes with many benefits as vitamin C is highly rich in antioxidants.
- Hyaluronic Acid:
With added Hyaluronic Acid in this serum, it not only helps repair the damaged skin but also moisturizes, hydrates, and nourishes it.
- Vitamin E:
The Vitamin E extracts in this serum help in reducing the appearance of scars and dark spots in your skin.
Why choose Himalayan Organics?
Himalayan Organics is made from herbs from the foothills of the Himalayas. The ingredients of the products are directly sourced from mother nature and used in a raw and most potent form.
3. Garnier Light Complete VITAMIN C Booster Face Serum:
This serum is enriched with the power of 30X VITAMIN C and Lemons. The serum is lightweight and the non-oily formula instantly absorbs into the skin. It gives you an instant glow and reduces spots in three days (basis clinical test). You can definitely expect to get visible results with this face serum.
The special ingredients in this serum are:
- Yuzu lemon:
This serum is highly enriched with Yuzu lemon and 30X Vitamin C, the Vitamin C Booster Serum concentrates on spot reduction and gives you flawless, healthy, and brightening skin.
Why choose Garnier?
This highly concentrated Vitamin C face serum gives you glowing, youthful, and bright skin instantly. This serum is dermatologically tested, approved, and suitable for every skin type.
4. The Body Avenue Vitamin C Serum for Face:
The Body Avenue Vitamin C Face Serum is an absolutely unique product made with highly potent and refined natural ingredients such as Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Hyaluronic Acid, Aqua, Glycerin, Basil Extract, Witch hazel extract, Mandarin Oil, Allantoin, Ginger Oil, and more.
Why choose The Body Avenue Face Serum?
The Body Avenue facial serum is made from many natural ingredients with Hyaluronic Acid and essential vitamins. It enhances your beauty by adding an extra glow to your regular skin. This serum has hydrating properties to keep your skin supple, soft and moist throughout the day. Regular use of this lightweight serum can help in bringing a visible natural glow to the skin.
- Easy to use
- Made out of natural ingredients
- Suitable for all skin types
- Suitable for both women and men
- Safe to use.
Special ingredients:
- Vitamin C and E:
This serum features a blend of Hyaluronic Acid that helps to plump up your skin. This serum is enhanced with a boost of vitamin E and C to bring back skin elasticity and repair damaged skin.
- Potent Antioxidants:
This serum is enriched with potent antioxidants that naturally help to strengthen your skin elasticity. You can also add a few drops of this serum with sunscreen to protect yourself from harmful UVA and UVB rays.
5. WOW Skin Science Vitamin C Serum:
Get youthful and luminous skin with WOW Skin Science Vitamin C Face Serum. It contains natural ingredients like pure vitamin C, witch hazel, and hyaluronic acid. This face serum repairs, hydrates damaged skin, and boosts collagen and elastin. It smoothes out fine lines, wrinkles, even out complexion, and improves skin complexion.
The special ingredients are:
- Active Vitamin C:
This is a powerful antioxidant that helps in neutralizing free radicals that cause skin damage. This serum reduces dark spots, pigmentation, and patchy skin tone. It helps in keeping the skin smooth, hydrated, supple, and soft.
- Hyaluronic Acid:
This acid helps to provide intense hydration to the skin all day long, thus making the skin soft, hydrated, and supple.
- Witch Hazel Extract:
This natural ingredient contains skin-clarifying tannin and nutrients that repair skin, reduce dark spots, redness, and irritations. This serum helps to improve overall skin complexion.
Why choose WOW Skin Science Vitamin C Serum?
This serum is made out of natural ingredients and contains no sulphate, parabens, color, or silicones and helps to give maximum benefits for your skin.
Conclusion:
Vitamin C is good for your skin and even your body. Vitamin C is one of the vitamins that isn’t produced naturally by the body. The only way to get that vitamin is through supplements or your diet. Citrus fruits like strawberry, kiwi, and oranges are highly rich in vitamin C. Vitamin C has vital roles to play in the entire body’s functioning. Vitamin C is one of the most effective topical antioxidants in skincare. Vitamin C face serums are very effective and beneficial for your skin. Nowadays Vitamin C products are available in the form of serums, powders, moisturizers, eye creams, masks, and essences. Like every other ingredient, Vitamin C has its own pros and cons. Therefore, choose your preference wisely!
Always remember to take a patch test before using or consult a dermatologist beforehand.
So, here was everything you need to know about Vitamin C and Vitamin C face serums. And, remember to have a smile on your face, in whatever you do. No face serum can compete with your smile! Slay like a diva!
Read Also – How to Use Every Single Type of Vitamin C Product on Your Face
