Topical vitamin C is one of the best skin care ingredients you can incorporate into your daily skincare routine. This powerhouse ingredient is known for its protecting antioxidant power and ability to even out the skin’s complexion.
According to board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Hadley King, M.D., studies have shown that using Vitamin C consistently for at least 12 weeks will decrease wrinkling, reduce protein fiber damage, decrease apparent roughness of skin and increase the production of collagen.
Hyper-pigmentation, which is an overproduction of melanin in certain areas of the skin, is a common issue for people of color. Vitamin C helps uneven and unwanted darkening of the skin. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce redness from post-acne scars.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO USE VITAMIN C?
I personally use vitamin C serum as in my morning routine since it helps fight the free radicals of UV rays. It is the first product I put on after cleansing (and toning – if you use a toner in the morning). Since vitamin C serums are generally a thinner and lighter product, I apply it as my first serum because it allows for the best product penetration. You can use Vitamin C at night too, but be careful what other products you use in conjunction with this to prevent skin irritation.
SOME CAVEATS…
- Unfortunately, vitamin C is a bit unstable. It can easily oxidize and go rancid quickly, so always make sure to look for a vitamin C in a dark or opaque bottle to slow down oxidation and other damage accelerated by light. Keeping it in a dry, dark place will also help it last longer.
- When you first open a bottle, the product should be clear or a pale yellow color. As Vitamin C is exposed to air, it becomes a burnt orange color. And once it turns yellowish/brown, it’s starting to lose its efficacy. To prevent expedited oxidation, make sure to keep your vitamin C serum out of the light and in a cool, dark place. I personally put mine in the fridge. Also, make sure to keep the lid sealed.
- Vitamin C can also make your skin more sensitive to the sun. So, make sure to apply sunscreen when you use vitamin C in your morning routine to help prevent the ingredient from oxidizing on your skin.
PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS…
I have personally been a fan of Drunk Elephant’s C-Firma Day Serum for a few years now. I tried Skinceutical’s Phloretin CF serum. And although it’s a great product,the price tag made me look for alternatives. So, I was happy to find a great dupe with Drunk Elephant.
I also love Paula’s Choice C15 Super Booster! Its effective and very lightweight. And I have to admit that I am sucker for formulas that easily sink into the skin and layer well.
Other fragrance-free Vitamin C serums to consider are:
- Glo Skin Beauty’s Daily C serum
- Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum
- Dermalogica’s BioLumin-C Vitamin C Serum
- The Inkey Lists’ Vitamin C Serum
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