Vitamin C: C the Difference
Is there anything Vitamin C isn’t good for? Maybe not a papercut, but other than that, it’s pretty stellar stuff in all of its forms. Naturally, as an esthetician, one of my favorite Vitamin C forms is a skin strengthening serum. Here’s why:
VITAMIN C PLAYS DEFENSE
Extrinsic (environmental) pollutants cause our skin cells damage. Fortunately, the benefits of vitamin C in skin care help protect against free radical damage which slows visible signs of aging. Free radicals are chemically unstable, unpaired electrons that hunt down other electrons in an effort to stabilize themselves. All bodily cells are vulnerable, but skin cells take the brunt, which eventually shows up in the mirror.
VITAMIN C CREATES GLOW
Vitamin C inhibits an enzyme called tyrosinase. Tyrosinase is responsible for converting tyrosine into melanin, thus preventing hyperpigmentation. Vitamin C, which requires routine use to maintain results, visibly brightens by evening skin tone and strengthening skin. Strong skin is better able to retain moisture and regulate melanogenesis, which in turn becomes balanced. Balanced melanogenesis means clear, even toned skin as mottled discoloration fades. Pretty cool series of events, right?
THERE’S A C FOR EVERYONE
A potent antioxidant, and key player in collagen formation, Vitamin C comes in multiple forms whose benefits work for every skin.
L-Ascorbic acid is the purest form of vitamin C and provides superior antioxidant defense compared to any of its acid derivatives.
Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C), has been used for many years to control melanin synthesis.
Newer stabilized derivatives of vitamin C, including magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, ascorbyl glucoside, and tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate are used to control melanogenesis (our skin’s melanin production factory). All of these derivatives have been shown to inhibit tyrosinase synthesis and activity.
IS ANYTHING BETTER THAN VITAMIN C?
Over time, preventative Vitamin C, originally introduced in skincare as a power preventative, visibly improves skin clarity, skin texture, and the appearance of fine lines. It is a mainstay of an age fighting home skin care regimen.
I’M A DIY GIRL, CAN I CRUSH VITAMIN C TABLETS AND RUB THE PASTE ON MY FACE?
No. No, you can’t. Manufactured products are scientifically engineered with formula stability, skin structure, skin pH and safety in mind. It is highly likely that not only will you burn your skin, you’ll reap zero benefit and face months of barrier repair.
I’M A MULTI-TASKER, CAN I APPLY MY AHA AND RETINOID PRODUCTS WITH MY VITAMIN C?
With an alpha-hydroxy acid, cautiously, yes, but the product manufacturer guidelines prevail. Some manufacturers have special balanced formulas that mesh retinol with C but that is a proprietary balance of chemistry that should not be assumed for 2 separate products. When in doubt, ask or stick to Vitamin C in the morning and your retinoid at night. During the day, commit to a broadband sunblock to prevent photodamage.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I APPLY MY VITAMIN C SERUM?
Decide whether you want to apply your Vitamin C am or pm and stick with it. During the day, commit to a broadband sunblock to prevent photodamage.
HOW QUICKLY SHOULD I REALIZE VISIBLE RESULTS
Everyone’s routine and skin condition is different, but you may see visible improvement in skin texture, color and tone within a few days. Lines and wrinkles will take several months to improve significantly if your home routine is cohesive. During the day, commit to a broadband sunblock to prevent photodamage.
VITAMIN C PRO TIP: SPF and antioxidants are bffs. UV light attacks collagen and elastin, but an extra dose of antioxidants can help head oxidative by-products off at the pass.
The purpose of Pure Joy Blog is for skin care-related advice only. It is not intended as, nor is it a substitute for medical advice. Information posted should not be construed as personal medical advice. The reader assumes responsibility for advice applied. I strive for accuracy but cannot be held responsible for the current validity of data as best practices are in continuous flux. By consuming any of our content, you agree that you will hold us harmless for actions you made as the result of the data.
