Read This Before Adding Vitamin C To Your Skincare Routine
Skincare routine, especially proper step by step skincare routine is way more common than it used to be ten or fifteen years ago. And with such widespread popularity, comes variety. So, let’s talk about one such skincare routine. Using vitamin C for skincare purposes.
So, what is Vitamin C?
Vitamin C is also known as ascorbic acid is a vitamin that is not naturally present in the body and the only way to incorporate it in the body is through consuming food rich in vitamin C like citrus fruits that assist the body in significant functions. Along with this, it certainly is very beneficial for the skin as well but you’ll have to apply it not consume it as the oral intake is 20% less effective.
This vitamin is also known to be an immunity booster and is significantly present in a lot of skincare products like serums and moisturisers. But before you start using this ingredient as your skincare product, there are a few things you need to know about it.
Some skin care tips
- This is not an easy treatment
As per Dr Mittal, vitamin C is known to be a very unstable ingredient for a skincare routine, and it will not be much effective, in case users don’t use a proper skincare regime carefully and watch the effects of this vitamin on their skin. In fact, it is advisable to take an opinion from a dermatologist regarding the use of vitamin C as a skincare product.
- It provides protection against sun damage
It is a common belief that vitamin C may cause sensitivity when the person is in contact with sunlight but in reality, vitamin C is an antioxidant that can help you against the damage caused by exposure to UV rays and also reduce the signs of ageing.
- Excess use of vitamin C is not advisable
The significance of using the right amount of Vitamin C for skincare is not really emphasised enough. A proper concentration of this ingredient will offer maximum effect instead of overusing it for a false sense of faster results. People should also consider taking a patch test first on their skin in order to judge whether it is safe or not.
Dr Mittal advises the users that they should look for vitamin C serums that are available in opaque and airtight containers. This should be done because vitamin C degrades quickly over time snd this process is hastened further when it comes in contact with heat, light and air.
Benefits of vitamin C on the skin
According to Wexler vitamin C assists in the production of collagen in the skin. Collagen is very beneficial for the skin as it diminishes fine lines, thickens the dermis and leaves you with firm and youthful skin in general.
Along with collagen, it also has an effect on melanin. It inhibits the production of melanin in the skin which helps us against hyperpigmentation and brown spots. Further, it also evens out the skin tone and provides radiance to the skin.
How to use vitamin C for skincare
Use vitamin C as a serum in the morning. This serum is to be applied after cleansing the face and before applying any sort of moisturiser or sunscreen. People need to follow this procedure regularly as it may take six to eight weeks before the users start to see a considerable difference in their face. Even though skin products, in general, take some time before showing significant results, the waiting time is even worse for vitamin C. In the meanwhile, meet up with a dermatologist and discuss the ideal amount of vitamin C you should be using.