Vitamin C is considered a unisex wellness supplement that can help fill key nutrient gaps from your diet. Let’s find out what dermatologists say about the skincare benefits of this essential micronutrient.

What is vitamin C?

Vitamin C is a water-soluble nutrient that is a naturally occurring component in various fruits and vegetables and can be available through dietary supplements. As a skincare ingredient, it is a potent antioxidant that can boost collagen production and neutralize free radicals.

Forms of Vitamin C

1. Pure Vitamin C

Also known as L-Ascorbic Acid, it is a dermatologist-recommended ingredient that can be easily absorbed into skin and work its magic.

2. Vitamin C derivatives

Esterified forms of Vitamin C have an added compound to delay the degradation of pure Vitamin C. This allows the derivative to be less pH dependent, less sensitive to light, and more stable.

3. Ascorbyl Palmitate

This is an oil-dispersible ester from pure Vitamin C and Palmitic Acid. Because of the high solubility of Palmitic Acid, it enhances skin absorption of L-Ascorbic Acid.  

Myths and Facts about Vitamin C

1. Not all Vitamin C is created equal

Natural Vitamin C is absorbed by the body at a slower rate but lasts longer; on the other hand, artificial ascorbic acid has only up to two hours of full effect.

2. More Vitamin C doesn’t mean better

The recommended daily intake (RDI) varies with age, sex, and health concerns. For topical application or as part of a daily skincare routine, three to five drops of Vitamin C serum is enough for the entire face.

3. Vitamin C serum loves cool, dry storage

It should be stored in dark-colored bottles and kept away from light and humidity. 

Here's a dermatologist-approved breakdown of what a daily dose of Vitamin C can do for your skin!

1. For skin brightening

Ageing and environmental pollutants among many other factors can all cause dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone. Vitamin C can put a halt to those nasty biochemical reactions that degrades the skin, therefore sustaining the clarity and evenness of complexion.

2. For skin firming

Fine lines and wrinkles will eventually appear but can be delayed with consistent use of Vitamin C which boosts collagen production. This will lead to better skin structure, elasticity, and firmness.

3. For sun protection

The antioxidant property of Vitamin C can reduce premature cell death and damage from UV light exposure.

4. For an enhanced natural defense system

Vitamin C is a natural powerhouse that combats the effects of free radicals and oxidative stress.

The one thing to remember about your Vitamin C Serum

In its purest form, Vitamin C can be quite unstable so it should be combined with another ingredient (e.g. Ferulic Acid) to balance it out. Your Vitamin C serum must have an almost clear consistence or a very light yellowish color; otherwise, it has already oxidized and not recommended for your skincare regimen.

Want to optimize the potent power of Vitamin C? TEI SPA BEAUTY highly recommends spa treatments with natural ingredients to help detoxify and brighten your skin for that natural beauty that glows!