Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays multiple roles in the human body. It cannot be produced by the body, so it is necessary to obtain it through diet, supplements, or skincare products.
It is mainly found in fresh fruits and vegetables, such as citrus fruits, spinach, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts.
Additionally, numerous skin care products contain vitamin C in topical form. These products are designed to deliver benefits directly to the skin, such as moisturizers, masks, cleansers, or facial serums.
Do you want to know how to revitalize your skin and leave it healthy and bright? At Jess Beauty, we tell you how to do it hand in hand with vitamin C.
What does Vitamin C do for your skin?
Vitamin C offers a wide range of benefits for the skin due to its antioxidant properties and role in collagen production.
1- Antioxidant action:
It is a powerful antioxidant that helps neutralize free radicals, unstable molecules that can damage skin cells. It helps prevent oxidative stress and premature skin aging caused by environmental factors such as UV radiation and pollution.
2- Stimulates the production of collagen:
It is essential for collagen synthesis, a key protein for maintaining the structure and firmness of the skin. By increasing collagen production, vitamin C can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, improving skin elasticity and smoothness.
3- Lightens and evens skin tone:
Vitamin C has depigmenting properties that can help reduce the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for dark spots on the skin. It can help lighten age spots, sun spots, and hyperpigmentation for a brighter, more even skin tone.
4- Protection against sun damage:
While it is not a substitute for proper sun protection, vitamin C can help reduce the damaging effects of UV radiation on the skin. It helps neutralize free radicals generated by sun exposure and can reduce redness and inflammation caused by UV rays.
5- Improves wound healing:
By stimulating collagen synthesis, vitamin C can help speed wound healing and improve the appearance of scars and skin tags.
6- Moisturizes and revitalizes the skin:
Vitamin C has hydrating properties and can help improve moisture retention in the skin. It helps keep skin hydrated, soft, and supple, contributing to a healthy, youthful appearance.
Overall, vitamin C can help improve skin texture, tone, and radiance, as well as fight the visible signs of aging. However, note that results may vary depending on the person and the concentration of vitamin C used.
Ways to incorporate Vitamin C to improve skin health
Do you want to incorporate Vitamin C into your skincare routine and improve your health? Then you can follow these tips:
- Use topical Vitamin C products:
Look for serums, creams, or lotions that contain vitamin C in its stable form, such as ascorbic acid or its derivatives (magnesium ascorbate, sodium ascorbyl phosphate). These products can be applied directly to the skin for antioxidant benefits and to stimulate collagen production.
- Choose an effective concentration:
For visible results, opt for products with an effective concentration of vitamin C. A concentration of at least 10% is considered adequate for skin benefits.
However, keep in mind that higher concentrations do not always mean better results, since each skin has different tolerances. It is advisable to start with lower concentrations and gradually increase if necessary.
- Apply the product correctly:
Cleanse and dry your face before applying the product with vitamin C. If you use multiple topical products, apply them after cleansing the skin and before applying any moisturizer or sunscreen. Gently massage the product into the skin until it is completely absorbed.
You can apply it both, in the morning and at night, according to your preferences and needs.
- Supplement with a diet rich in vitamin C:
In addition to topical products, you can increase your vitamin C intake through food. Include fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C, such as oranges, strawberries, kiwis, mangoes, pineapples, red peppers, spinach, and broccoli.
Eating these foods fresh and raw can help you get a healthy dose of vitamin C to improve your skin's health from within.
- Don't forget the sunscreen:
Although vitamin C can provide some protection against sun damage, it doesn't replace the need for sunscreen.
Daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an adequate sun protection factor (SPF) is essential to protect the skin from harmful UV rays. Apply sunscreen after vitamin C and before makeup if you wear it.
Contraindications to the use of vitamin c
Vitamin C is generally safe for the skin and well tolerated by most people. However, in some cases, there may be contraindications or precautions to be aware of.
For example, some people with sensitive skin may experience irritation, redness, or itching when using topical vitamin C products. In these cases, it is advisable to patch-test a small area of skin before using the product on the whole face.
On the other hand, although rare, some people may have a specific allergy or sensitivity to vitamin C. If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction, such as severe redness, swelling, or difficulty breathing, you should discontinue use and consult a doctor.
Also, topical vitamin C may irritate or sting if applied to damaged skin, such as cuts, burns, or open wounds. It is advisable to wait until the skin has healed before applying any products to these areas.
Finally, if you are taking specific topical medications, such as acne treatments or to treat skin conditions, you may need to use caution when using topical vitamin C products.
Some medications can interact with vitamin C and potentially affect its effectiveness.
Now that you know the benefits of vitamin C in skincare, it's time to incorporate it into your beauty routine. Complement with high-quality products from Jess Beauty and give your skin the best.
