Vitamin C deserves a prime spot in everyone’s skin care routine, because it is a powerful antioxidant ingredient. But what does that mean exactly? In day to day life, our skin (epidermis) is exposed to numerous sources of oxidative stress UV light from the sun, blue light from electronic devices, and pollutants in the air are all elements that can inflict free radicals, or unstable atoms, onto the skin.

These unstable atoms are disruptive and can damage healthy skin cells and cause a range of signs of aging. Free radical damage can appear as fine lines and wrinkles, sagging, dullness, dark spots, inflammation and dehydration. An antioxidant works against oxidative stress, helping the body better defend itself against free radicals. Vitamin C can neutralize the unstable atoms your skin is exposed to daily which reduces the damaging impact on your complexion.

The superpower of this ingredient also lies in its ability to effectively prevent multiple advanced signs of aging while protecting skin from future damage. The beauty of a quality L-ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) serum with good absorption rate, will unlock numerous benefits for the skin all at the same time. You can count on it to protect and improve the overall appearance of your skin.

As a skin care ingredient, Vitamin C is available in different forms. You may see it listed as sodium ascorbyl phosphate, ascorbyl palmitate or 3-0 ethyl ascorbic acid. However, not all forms of Vitamin C are equal. L-ascorbic acid is the most bio-available form; it’s the most studied ingredient and widely respected as the most effective.

Choosing a high performing pharmaceutical grade product in an absorbable form will always provide the best results. A serum, rather than a cream or moisturizer, offers a concentrated formula that has an enhanced ability to be absorbed into the deeper layers of the skin for maximum efficacy.

L-ascorbic acid Vitamin C serums (our long time favourites are from Vivier), boast many benefits. First and foremost, it provides an overall brightening boost to any dull or uneven complexion. Exposure to UV light impacts melanin functions. Melanin is what gives us brown spots. Vitamin C inhibits the enzyme that contributes to discolouration. By adding Vitamin C to your routines, you can diminish the negative impact of oxidative stress on your skin tone and maintain a glowing complexion.

Firming the skin is another widely proven benefit of Vitamin C. This ingredient is known to stimulate collagen production, which is great news for anyone. Collagen is responsible for a plump, youthful appearance. As we get older, not only does collagen production slow down, but free radical damage can accelerate collagen breakdown. Vitamin C is the antidote.

Vitamin C offers anti-inflammatory benefits. Due to a skin-soothing effect, it can positively impact reactive skin conditions, including sensitivity, redness and acne. Plus, it can also enhance hydration levels within the skin, fortifying the skin barrier to better maintain moisture.

To make the most of Vitamin C’s antioxidant benefits, you should use a Vitamin C serum at least once a day. Adding it to your morning skin care routines is the best option, as it will protect your skin from damaging exposure to free radical sources that are most prevalent during the daytime from the sun. 

 After cleansing and toning your face, apply 2-3 drops into the palm of your hand and use your fingertips to gently press a thin layer of serum onto your face, neck, chest & back of your hands. Follow up with moisturizer and sunscreen. For added boost to radiance or sun spot correction, consider adding it to your nighttime routine as well.

A consultation with a Medical Aesthetician or an Aesthetics Nurse is a smart first move. These clinics have access to pharmaceutical grade & concentrated L-ascorbic acid serum. The different types of Vitamin C serum can be matched to your skin’s needs whether you have rosacea, acne or dry skin. The price may be higher than what you are paying at a drug store or trendy mall shop BUT it will last longer and have a significant impact on the appearance of your skin.  Invest in yourself and your skin by protecting and improving your skin health and appearance.