As a writer in the beauty industry, I cannot begin to explain the importance of vitamin C in an appropriate skin care regimen: it illuminates hyperpigmentation, aids in the production of skin collagen and (what we think is the most important attribute of this ingredient). protects the skin from harmful free radical damage. Unfortunately, the caveat here is that many people are sensitive to vitamin C derived from ascorbic acid. So does this mean that people with sensitive skin, prone to acne or even mature skin cannot use vitamin C? No way.
Vitamin C serums come in all shapes and sizes and are derived from different sources that can cause little or no damage to the skin. Dr. Joshua Zeichner, an accredited dermatologist and director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital, explains: “Vitamin C comes in two main forms, pure ascorbic acid and ester forms. Pure vitamin C is water-soluble is more difficult to formulate and requires an acidic pH. It is unstable in ultraviolet light and usually comes in dark or opaque bottles. I find it a little more irritating to the skin, so I usually reserve it for people who are not sensitive. vitamin C, on the other hand, are oil-soluble. I think they are more useful for people who are dry or sensitive. They are more stable in formulation and actually penetrate the skin better. “The stability of vitamin C-derived serums of esters explains why you can see these serums in transparent bottles, as opposed to the opaque or amber glass tinctures with which we are familiar.
Dr. Zeichner continues: “If you are extremely sensitive, start [applying a vitamin C serum] every two mornings – otherwise, you can apply every day. Unlike ingredients like retinol, there is no adjustment period for vitamin C. “Dr. Zeichner explains that it is more important to apply this ingredient in conjunction with a sunscreen to reap its benefits to the fullest.
So which vitamin C serum is right for you? The following is a complete analysis of the ingredient, along with some products most suitable for your skin type.
Sensitive skin
If you find patch-testing products unsuccessful, Dr. Zeichner recommends vitamin C sera derived from vitamin C esters, including “THD ascorbate, sodium ascorbate phosphate and others with the word ascorbate start.”
Skin prone to acne
Although you can be cautious when applying anything to your breakouts that has a sensitivity controversy attached to it, vitamin C serum can really help to end your rash problems. Dr. Zeichner explains: “There is data showing that vitamin C itself can help treat acne by reducing inflammation in the follicles. Vitamin C also helps to lighten dark spots left behind after the pimples have healed.” The best forms of vitamin C for people with acne-prone skin come from sodium ascorbyl phosphate. However, Dr. Zeichner explains that all forms of vitamin C generally work well with acne-prone skin.
Mature skin
Says Dr. Zeichner: “If you have mature skin, look for vitamin C products that combine with vitamin E. They work together to protect your skin from radical damage, making them useful for mature skin.” In addition, vitamin E is an extremely moisturizing ingredient, which means that, while protecting the skin from free radicals, it also increases the texture to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.