Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to have numerous benefits for the skin. It can help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, which can lead to premature aging and other skin problems 1.
When it comes to concentrations of vitamin C in skincare products, studies have shown that concentrations of 10-20% are the most effective at improving skin texture, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and brightening the complexion 2. Higher concentrations of vitamin C may be irritating to the skin, while lower concentrations may not be as effective 3.
Topical application of vitamin C in skincare products is the most effective way to deliver it to the skin. While some sources of vitamin C include citrus fruits, berries, and leafy green vegetables, these sources may not provide enough vitamin C to have a significant impact on the skin 4.
Some studies have shown that vitamin C can also help protect the skin from UV damage and improve the effectiveness of sunscreens 5. However, it is important to note that vitamin C should not be used as a replacement for sunscreen.
In conclusion, vitamin C in concentrations of 10-20% is the best for improving skin texture, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and brightening the complexion. Topical application of vitamin C in skincare products is the most effective way to deliver it to the skin. It's always important to talk to a dermatologist before starting any new skincare routine.
Sources:
- "Vitamin C and Skin Health." Linus Pauling Institute, Oregon State University, lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/health-disease/skin-health/vitamin-C. ↩
- Telang, Pumori Saokar. "Vitamin C in Dermatology." Indian Dermatology Online Journal, vol. 4, no. 2, 2013, p. 143., doi:10.4103/2229-5178.110593. ↩
- Farris, Patricia K. "Topical Vitamin C: A Useful Agent for Treating Photoaging and Other Dermatologic Conditions." Dermatologic Surgery, vol. 31, 2005, pp. 814-818., doi:10.1097/00042728-200508000-00003. ↩
- Pullar, Juliet M., et al. "The Roles of Vitamin C in Skin Health." Nutrients, vol. 9, no. 8, 2017, p. 866., doi:10.3390/nu9080866. ↩
- Lin, Jing-Yi, et al. "UV Photoprotection by Combination Topical Antioxidants Vitamin C and Vitamin E." Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, vol. 48, no. 6, 2003, pp. 866-874., doi:10.1067/mjd.2003.302. ↩