Vitamin C

Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) is an essential ingredient for glowing and healthy skin due to its ability to treat skin discoloration and for its ability to prevent pro-aging concerns, such as photodamage. 

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, photodamage results from UV radiation and is responsible for 90 percent of visible aging to the skin, such as wrinkles, a roughened texture, loss of collagen, and more. Skin discoloration is also a result of UV damage and appears as dark or patchy spots on one’s skin.  

Dermatologists and researchers agree that pro-aging concerns and skin discoloration can be effectively curtailed through applying topical Vitamin C. Furthermore, topically applied Vitamin C diminishes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and boosts collagen production. 

Amazingly, our bodies naturally produce this skin-enhancing vitamin. However, as we age, the epidermis and dermis’ ability to produce Vitamin C lessens. UV rays and atmospheric pollutants also contribute to this decline, leading to uneven skin texture and tone when Vitamin C becomes deficient. 

Adding a Vitamin C product to your skincare routine is a fundamental step anyone can take to guard aging skin issues and retain a youthful glow. 

Here is a summary of the many benefits of Vitamin C in skincare:

• Combats pro-aging concerns. Many pro-aging concerns result from the aggressive harm that UV rays inflict on the skin. Vitamin C, while not a sunscreen, fights pro-aging concerns by limiting the effect that UV rays have on the dermis and epidermis, along with inhibiting DNA-related UV damage.
• Fades skin discoloration. Vitamin C inhibits melanin production, limiting the appearance of skin discoloration. Not only does it help prevent such occurrences through this mechanism, but it also has a skin-brightening effect that can work retroactively as well. 
• Boosts collagen levels. As one ages, the skin’s collagen production declines; UV rays also contribute to this slowdown, leading to sagging, lines, and wrinkles. When applied to the skin, Vitamin C triggers collagen production, giving the skin a firmer and more youthful appearance.  
• Curtails oxidative stress. When not combatted, oxidative stress leads to premature aging issues, such as the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. Because Vitamin C is an antioxidant, it limits the adverse effects of environmental pollutants that could cause oxidative stress on the skin. 

A note of caution: L-ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) loses its potency when packaged in a way that permits exposure to UV light.