All About Topical Vitamin C
Vitamin C or ascorbic acid ((l-ascorbic acid) (not to be confused with citric acid) is used in cosmetics to protect skin cells from the penetration of toxins from the environment, from cell destruction by free radicals, for skin tone smoothing (removal of pigmentation), for strengthening of vessels (couperose problems) and in anti-aging cosmetics.
When you are about to start using a product with Vit C, look for low concentrations (starting from 1%), but note the maximum effectiveness you will get from the concentration of vitamin starting from 10% through 20%.
Please be careful with acid pH balance which should be from 2.8 to 3.4 – this range is considered optimal not to irritate the skin. Products with pH balance lower than 2.8 may irritate the skin, while those with pH higher than 3.4 are not effective.
Vit C works best together with vitamin E, ferulic acid, tyrosine and zinc.
What kind of vitamin C is used in cosmetics?
Synthetic Vitamin C since its formula is more stable and resistant to sun, air, water and heat, copper and iron.
In what forms it is best to buy Vitamin C for skin?
In the form of a serum in a dark glass bottle (in this format, vitamin C retains its properties longer and contacts less with oxygen and light).
When to use Vitamin C topically?
In low concentrations (up to 10%) in the morning, in higher concentrations from 10% through 20% in the evening.
Under what names to look for Vit C among the product’s ingredients?
A fast, but irritating to the skin is an “l-ascorbic acid”.
A softer-acting form is “ascorbyl glucoside”, “magnesium ascorbylphosphate.”
At what age to start using?
For acne-prone skin – from any age.
For uneven skin tone – from 25 years.
For UV protection – from 20 years.
For aging skin – from 30 years.
Important!
Don’t use any products with Vit C If the color of the product has changed and became yellow, orange or brown.
Apply sunscreen every time you are using a product with Vit C to prevent harmful effect of free radicals and avoid pigmentation.