VITAMIN C
Vitamin C is a popular anti-oxidant favorite of many skincare users as it is the key to maintaining a smooth, even, glowy complexion! It can be found in many natural skincare products, from L-ascorbic acid to tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate. They may vary in stability and efficacy, but they all provide similar benefits for the skin when used regularly. The benefits include slowing premature skin aging, preventing sun damage & improving the even skin tone.
As it is an antioxidant, it fights the harmful free radicals that affect the skin directly from external sources like pollution or from inside the body too, as a result of natural processes like skin metabolism. Applying vitamin C topically which is present in our Kass Brightening Serum helps to improve the skin’s overall appearance.
What it is Used Best For?
- Brightens the skin!
3-O-ethyl ascorbate, a VITAMIN C derivative, is a potent skin-brightening ingredient. It defends against environmental stressors as it works as a powerful antioxidant. It also boosts collagen production which in turn prevents aging, making the skin more plump, smooth, and radiant with Kass Brightening Serum.
- Role in Skin Health
Collagen Hydroxylases are certain enzymes that are crucial for maintaining healthy skin. But when there is a lack of Vitamin C, certain skin problems or skin concerns can arise such as scurvy. It was that time, when scientists realized that vitamin C's role as an antioxidant helps to protect the skin from damage caused by harmful UV rays. To date, because of these reasons, research on Vitamin C has been driven mostly by these two hypotheses: helping collagen & protection from UV rays.
- Hydration
Research has found that most healthy skin & organs contain high concentrations of vitamin C that accumulate in the body from circulation. Ascorbic acid is the best form of Vitamin C in case of better penetration in the skin.
Another vitamin C derivative- Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate is used in skincare and has a hydrating effect on the skin. It decreases Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL), allowing your skin to retain moisture better.
It has also been found in a 2019 study, that an antipollution & antioxidant serum that contains Deschampsia antarctica extract, ferulic acid, and vitamin C reduces TEWL by 19 percent which improves the skin barrier function.
- Reduces redness and evens out skin tone
According to a 2015 study, Vitamin C has also been found to be exerting the quality of anti-inflammatory through its antioxidant capacity. This means it soothes the skin and reduces puffiness.
- Safe for all skin types
It is safe for all skin types to use Vitamin C face serum in their skincare routine. Most people can apply it topically for an extended period without experiencing any adverse reactions.
However, vitamin C serum may cause minor skin irritation in concentrations above 20%.
- Anti-inflammatory action
It completes the following functions:
- Neutralize free radicals that cause oxidative damage
- Optimize the immune system to discourage an inflammatory immune response
- Reduces redness, which in turn can create a more even complexion.
- The combined reduction of dark spots, redness, and irritation makes for a clear, smooth skin tone.
Skin Side Effects of Reduced Vitamin C
Normal skin contains high concentrations of vitamin C, with levels comparable to other body tissues and well above plasma concentrations, suggesting its active accumulation. It is accepted that nutritional status concerning both macronutrients and micronutrients is important for skin health and is directly proportional to the appearance of the skin. Healthy skin looks radiant, plump and hydrated & follows the natural aging process. Evidence of this is provided that, vitamin C deficiency disease is characterized by,
- Skin fragility
- Dull Lifeless Skin
- Early Aging
- Pale skin tones
- Easy dryness
- Easy post-acne scarring
Reports have also indicated that vitamin C levels are lower in aged or photodamaged skin caused by excessive exposure to oxidant stress via pollutants or UV irradiation. Vitamin C enhances the skin’s primary function of skin protection & eradication of these oxidants to maintain well-balanced skin.
Who shouldn't use Vitamin C products?
- Vitamin C is not recommended for children.
- It is essential to always read the ingredient list before purchasing a vitamin C serum. If the skin has sensitivity or a known allergy to any of the ingredients, consider a patch test or consult a dermatologist before use.
- In case of acne-prone or oily skin, consider using a formulation that contains ingredients like salicylic acid that fight breakouts & control excess oil.
How to use topical Vitamin C
In AM/ Morning skincare routine:
- Use a gentle cleanser
- Apply a few drops of a vitamin C serum to the face and neck
- Apply moisturizer and sunscreen (a must).
If it is noticed that the skin experiences some tingling sensation, then begin by using it every other day or alternate days. Once the skin gets adapted to the new natural skincare, one can start to apply it daily. If one experiences substantial discomfort or irritation, please stop using vitamin C and consult with your physician.
Conclusion
It is to equip individuals with the right knowledge regarding the ingredients that might be present in their natural skincare products or are looking forward to incorporating them soon. This way, you are welcoming radiant & healthy skin that glows from the inside out because YOU chose to do thorough research to attain that glass-glowy skin!
