What is vitamin C?
Vitamin C is also called “ascorbic acid“. It is a water-soluble vitamin, meaning it dissolves in water and is then eliminated by the kidneys.
Therefore, it is not stored by the body. That’s why it’s important to have sufficient daily intake.
This vitamin is best known for its stimulating effect on the body. It is indicated to reduce fatigue, regain energy and vitality.
Its benefits extend to the immune system, which it helps to energize and strengthen. By boosting natural defenses, it may help fight infections.
Vitamin C is less well known for its role in skin health. Yet its beneficial effects are numerous!
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A major protector, it helps fight free radicals and prevents their damage, such as premature skin aging.
It is also essential for the synthesis of collagen and for the healing process. Finally, it improves skin appearance by brightening the complexion and reducing brown spots.
To enjoy its benefits, favor foods rich in vitamin C such as camu camu, blackcurrant, citrus fruits, or rosehip berries.
You can also take dietary supplements.
Vitamin C can also be used topically, applied directly to the skin. It is then applied in the form of a cream or serum.
In this way, it is not distributed throughout the body but is intended only for the skin and cutaneous tissue. Its action is therefore more targeted.
Its benefits for the skin
It slows down skin aging
Vitamin C exerts an antioxidant action, meaning that it fights free radicals, prevents them from taking hold, and prevents the damage they cause.
It is even able to trap them to eliminate them more effectively. To do this, it works in synergy with vitamin E and provitamin A (beta-carotene).
Free radicals accelerate skin aging and promote the appearance of signs of aging : wrinkles, brown spots, loss of radiance and elasticity…
They are also responsible for oxidative stress which affects the skin’s structure.
Vitamin C slows this process and preserves the youthfulness of the skin. That’s why it is often added to anti-aging skincare products.
Finally, it protects against damage caused by UV rays which accelerate the aging of skin cells and tissues.
As shown by this study, it plays a major role in the skin.
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It supports collagen production
Vitamin C is closely linked to the biosynthesis of collagen. This protein, present in the dermis, ensures the maintenance and cohesion of tissues.
It provides suppleness and elasticity to the skin. In addition, it is essential for hydration, tissue regeneration, and wound healing.
Also read | The beneficial effects of collagen on the skin
However, collagen production is not possible without vitamin C. Indeed, it is what triggers the hydroxylation reaction that modifies certain amino acids, such as proline and lysine.
This process is necessary for the formation of collagen fibers.
This study shows the effect of vitamin C on collagen production.
It brightens the complexion
Vitamin C boosts the skin’s radiance and contributes to a fresher, more luminous complexion. It is ideal for a dull, tired, or grayish complexion. It helps restore a healthy glow.
Additionally, it evens out the skin tone and corrects hyperpigmentation by reducing the appearance of brown spots on the hands and face. To do this, it reduces melanin oxidation, which is responsible for darkening.
In this study, vitamin C was used to reduce skin hyperpigmentation.
It promotes healing
By ensuring collagen production, it accelerates the healing process. Indeed, collagen is essential for the renewal and regeneration of tissues in the case of wounds (injuries, burns…).
It is also useful for reducing acne scars or other skin conditions : psoriasis, eczema…
This study shows the importance of vitamin C in the wound healing process and collagen production.
How to use vitamin C for the skin ?
As a dietary supplement
As a dietary supplement, it comes in the form of capsules, tablets, drops, powder, or gummies. It can be pure or combined with other active ingredients: hyaluronic acid, marine collagen, vitamins A and E…
It is often found in complexes for skin beauty.
For greater effectiveness, choose liposomal vitamin C. It is protected from oxidation and has better absorption by the body. That way, your skin will benefit even more.
For topical use
You can benefit from its effects by applying vitamin C-based skincare. Day creams, serums, lotions… often contain it.
They are useful for giving a radiance boost to dull, tired complexions and for protecting the skin from free radicals.
However, be careful if you have sensitive skin: concentrated vitamin C treatments (>15%) can cause irritation, a feeling of discomfort or tightness. Do a patch test in the crook of your elbow to check for any signs of a skin reaction.
