Vitamin C – the superstar that's one of the most popular ingredients in skincare, is vital for boosting skin glow while busting pigmentation among other benefits. This potent antioxidant acts as powerful protection against pollution, sun damage and other environmental damages. It can be found abundantly in our skin but as we age, our body starts to produce less and less of it. Just like other vitamins and minerals that need to be supplemented with age, vitamin C must be consciously taken in. Ayurveda, the 5000-year-old ancient Indian practice, places importance on vitamin C as an irreplaceable healing ingredient. This essential dietary component demands daily intake as it is a water soluble vitamin and is not stored in the body's tissues. Ayurveda recommends consumption of food that is high in vitamin C to balance the doshas while contributing to building immunity, aiding in digestion and improving overall health. The best way to ensure its daily intake is by adding Indian gooseberry or amla to your morning routine. Apart from diet, you must reach out for daily application of vitamin C serum. This stimulates collagen production to help plump and smooth the skin, increase the efficacy of sunscreen, reduce inflammation and combat sun damage and pigmentation, among other benefits. Serums have the power to penetrate deeper than your moisturiser. So its effectiveness is already enhanced as soon as it's used as a serum. Pond's Bright Beauty Serum that comes with 12% Vitamin C+E+A is a non-sticky, non-irritant, quick-absorbing formula that can be easily incorporated into your skincare routine.
01How Does Vitamin C Benefit Skin Health?
- Skin Brightening: Vitamin C is the go-to for anyone looking to reduce dullness or fade dark spots. Upon continuous use of vitamin C, you can see visible brightening effects, leaving your skin looking fresh, glowing, and more radiant.
- Visibly Reduced Signs of Aging: Environmental pollutants, UV rays, smoke, and exposure to other stressors accelerates ageing. With the world we live in, where more than 50 per cent of our day is spent in front of a screen and the rest is spent travelling, we're already headed for early signs of ageing. The antioxidant properties in vitamin C combat oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Over time, these free radicals can damage collagen. Vitamin C neutralises these molecules, helping to protect against fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of firmness, aka contributing to youthful-looking skin.
- Boosts Collagen Production: Collagen is the protein that keeps skin firm and plump. Stimulating collagen synthesis and promoting skin elasticity and firmness, vitamin C plays a vital role here. Lakme Vitamin C Brilliance Serum With 10% Vit C Complex does the job. Infused with Jicama extract that brightens the skin and vitamin E that moisturises, this one is a truly brilliant formula to add to your am and pm routine.
- Reduced Inflammation and Redness: Like a multi-talented kid, vitamin C also has anti-inflammatory properties which can help reduce redness and soothe irritated skin. This is especially beneficial for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin, as vitamin C can calm the skin without being too harsh. In addition to vitamin C, you must ice your face to combat inflammation and redness.
- Sun Protection: Vitamin C adds a layer of defence against UV rays. Use it in combination with sunscreen every morning and see the results yourself.
02Should You Use Vitamin C Serum in The Morning or at Night?
There's no rule that says it shouldn't be applied in the am or pm. Depending on how well your skin tolerates it, vitamin C can be used daily. Due to its antioxidant properties and the ability to protect against sun damage and UV exposure, it's best to use it in the morning. When used at night, it is equally beneficial as it'll allow the skin to repair while you sleep. Isn't it wonderful?
03What Happens When It’s Paired With The Right Ingredients?
When paired with the right ingredients, the power of vitamin C becomes multifold. For instance, when used in combination with glycolic acid, it transforms into a holy grail duo for your skin. As an AHA, glycolic acid exfoliates the skin by dissolving dead cells on the surface, revealing fresher skin underneath. This allows vitamin C to penetrate your skin on a deeper level and more effectively. Some power pairings would be:
- Vitamin C + Sunscreen (SPF): This dynamic duo is ideal for your morning skincare routine. While vitamin C works at neutralising free radicals from UV exposure, SPF blocks UV rays from penetrating the skin. This means optimal protection against sun damage, premature ageing and dark spots. Win-win.
- Vitamin C + Hyaluronic Acid: If you have sensitive skin, vitamin C may cause slight dryness or irritation. You can balance it by using hyaluronic acid in combination. Known for its hydrating properties, it locks in moisture and plumps the skin, thereby enhancing vitamin C's brightening effects.
- Vitamin C + Niacinamide: Niacinamide (vitamin B3) has the ability to reduce redness, improve skin texture, and fade dark spots. When paired with vitamin C, it creates a powerful combination that targets hyperpigmentation and promotes an even skin tone. A wonder serum that has all three – hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and vitamin C, is Paula's Choice Ultra-Light Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum with Hyaluronic Acid. This extraordinary blend of antioxidants are in this feather-light hydrating serum that gives skin a brighter, hydrated appearance while resisting environmental stress and promoting firmer-looking skin. Talk about the best of both worlds. To seal total protection, end your routine with Lakme Sun Expert Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50. This one not only protects but also promises a light matte finish for great-looking skin. The benefits of adding vitamin C to your skincare regime spread far and wide. It's time for you to experiment and see which power pairing works best for your skin.
