Vitamin C is widely regarded as one of the safest, yet most powerful nutrients. The benefits are well documented in medicine, vitamin C is recommended by medical professionals for many different ailments ranging from cardiovascular issues to the common cold. However, vitamin C can also be used in a different way with just as impressive results – that way is in natural skincare. This has been evidenced in recent years, as the Instagram-makeup era gives way to the rise of the multiple step skincare regime, with more focus than ever on facial treatments, and the ingredients they contain. Amongst the numerous skincare options on the market, vitamin C is an ingredient that is heralded as a must-have in any beauty routine. This multi-tasking ingredient is available in a range of varieties and formulations with differing levels of potency.
Many may assume their skincare products include natural vitamin C. However, this is not always the case, as there are other synthetic variations of the nutrient used more commonly in skincare as they are cheaper, longer lasting and easier to formulate with. In these products, a key molecule is often removed from the natural vitamin C that helps extend its longevity. What is less widely known is that the removal of this molecule can also remove the positive attributes that vitamin C is known for. In these instances, the vitamin C benefits in skincare are majorly depleted.
In nature, vitamin C comes from sources such as vegetables, citrus fruits, and botanicals such as Kakadu plum. Humans are unable to generate vitamin C and have to look externally to food sources or topical solutions to boost their intake. Despite its ready availability, natural vitamin C is particularly unstable as a skincare ingredient. Once it is removed from its original source, and is exposed to oxygen, heat or light, it loses efficacy and potency fast. In skincare, this means that in order for the natural vitamin C to work as well as possible on skin, some stabilisers must be added to the formula. Without these, unfortunately the life of the product would be remarkably short.
The vitamin C benefits in skincare are numerous and impressive. Vitamin C is an effective natural skincare ingredient because:
One of the most well-known facts about vitamin C is that it is an antioxidant. Everyday exposure to UV rays can result in harmful free radicals that break down collagen cells, ultimately leading to signs of ageing skin. Vitamin C helps to neutralise these free radicals, stimulate collagen cell production and repair damaged tissue.
No matter the skin concern, vitamin C is likely to help. It has the power to reduce redness, lighten pigmentation, and even fade acne scars. With continued use skin can appear even in tone, clear and radiant. This is how vitamin C gets its ‘glowing’ reputation.
When it comes to picking products to hydrate the skin, vitamin C might be an unlikely choice. However, this impressive ingredient has been proven to help lock in moisture on application, which only further enhances the plumpness and luminosity of the skin.
At the same time as vitamin C fights free radical damage, it also improves fine lines, dark circles and other signs of ageing. It encourages cell turnover and protects against the disintegration of collagen – resulting in younger, brighter looking skin.
There are few other skincare ingredients that have the ability to solve more than one skincare concern at a time, and on their own, as vitamin C can. Effectiveness does, however, depend on the vitamin C product, and the formulation.
Whether in its natural or synthetic form, used to reduce redness, pigmentation, or simply to achieve that ‘glow’, there are vitamin C formulas to suit all skin types. The benefits seen from using vitamin C in natural skincare have solidified its reputation as a ‘must-have’ ingredient.
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