THEVitamin C is a skincare ingredient (and not only) so loved that it has a day all to itself: in fact, Vitamin C Day is celebrated on April 4th. A fundamental component in some culinary excellences, in recent years it has also become a star ingredient in cosmetics, recommended by dermatologists and experts. The first and most important benefit? Give brightness to the skin.
Vitamin C Day, the secrets of the most energizing beauty ingredient
Brightens, reduces sun spots, stimulates collagen production, prevents aging. The benefits of vitamin C are diverse and it is no coincidence that there are April 4th is dedicated to the day, promoted by the SkinCeuticals brand since 2019. From a fundamental vitamin in the culinary field to a “never again without” ingredient in the world of beauty, the step was short.
First of all, it is one of the active ingredients most recommended by dermatologists especially with the arrival of the summer for its antioxidant and illuminating action. Vitamin C, in fact, neutralizes free radicals, responsible for premature skin aging and helps the production of collagen and elastin. For this reason it is considered among the most powerful antioxidants, precisely because it gives a boost of energy to the skin. Furthermore, it anticipates the appearance of dark spots and can lighten those already present.
Vitamin C, always check the percentage
To be truly effective on the skin, vitamin C must be present in the cosmetic product in quantities generally between 5% and 10%: in fact, in a lower percentage it may not be efficient, but if it exceeds 20% it risks irritating the skin, especially the more delicate ones.
Is vitamin C therefore suitable for all skin types? Yes, as long as you choose products with an optimal concentration.
The “no’s” of Vitamin C in skincare
1. Pay attention to conservation
Vitamin C is fragile, easily subject to oxidation if it comes into contact with air. True, but it all depends on the quality of the product. If vitamin C is well stabilized, there are no risks. As with many other ingredients, it is advisable to store it away from heat and light sources because it is photosensitive.
2. It makes the skin more sensitive to the sun
Although vitamin C itself is not photosensitizing, i.e. it does not make the skin more predisposed to the formation of spots if exposed to the sun, it is however always advisable after a treatment with vitamin C to apply over a sunscreen with at least SPF30.
3. Vitamin C is not combined with other active ingredients
False. This vitamin can also be combined with E for an antioxidant action even stronger; alternatively, you can combine it with hyaluronic acid if you are looking for an extra boost of hydration. If instead the goal is brightness, it can be combined with niacinamidewith mandatory sun protection. It is essential to keep in mind not to combine it with exfoliating acids in the same session. Just space out the application for a few hours.
4. Vitamin C and retinol, ever together?
As with other more or less intensive exfoliating ingredients on the skin, care is needed. Surely the combination of vitamin C and retinol is not suitable for the summer months, facilitating the risk of blemishes. Furthermore, it is best to proceed gradually following the 3-2-1 rule.
That is, the first week apply vitamin C and retinol only for 3 days, the second apply them every 2 and from the third, even every day. With this gradual “insertion” method, no skin irritation should occur. In this case, as always, it is necessary to suspend the application.
5. Never use vitamin C when it is oxidized
Real. In fact, the oxidation of the product causes yellowing of the skin and can cause stains on the fabrics.
