“SUPER-C” – The of powers topical vitamin C

Vitamin C is a naturally occurring antioxidant that most animals and plants can synthesize on their own from glucose. Unfortunately, humans lack the enzyme required for its synthesis so we must get it from natural sources such as citrus fruits. However, no matter how many oranges and lemons you eat, oral vitamin C will not provide adequate doses to the skin so topical vitamin C is required. Applying vitamin C to the skin is actually 20 times more effective than taking it orally. Look for L- ascorbic acid serum since it is the only bioavailable form of vitamin C.

Vitamin C is the most abundant antioxidant found in skin but aging and exposure to free radicals from UV rays, pollution and smoking reduces vitamin C content. Sunscreen protects the skin from sunburn but only blocks around half of the free radicals produced by UV exposure. Therefore, it is important to use sunscreens that contain antioxidants. Vitamin C does not actually block UV rays – it works by neutralizing free radicals.

Although vitamin C works on its own to provide antioxidant and photo-protection, it works best in combination with vitamin E, which boosts the action of vitamin C four- fold. Therefore, look for products that contain both vitamins. Vitamin C is essential for collagen production by improving both its quantity and quality. Vitamin C increases the production of collagen and is also required for the cross linking of collagen fibres into its strong rope‐like triple helix . Vitamin C also decreases pigment production and brightens the skin. Unsurprisingly, topical L- ascorbic acid in concentrations between 5 and 15% has been proven to have an anti‐aging effect.

And if you still aren’t impressed with this vitamin, vitamin C also has anti- inflammatory properties, which makes it a helpful ingredient for acne and rosacea. In addition, vitamin C plays a role in immune defense. Apply vitamin C serum to freshly-cleansed skin once daily in the morning to take advantage of vitamin C`s antioxidant and photo-protective powers.