The benefits of Vitamin C for skin and overall health
The new goal in skincare is to achieve flawless, spotless skin with that dewy glow. And people don’t mind spending a ton on expensive serums and facial treatments.
The trend has moved away from hiding spots and dark circles and has inclined towards getting rid of them permanently.
This has made a lot of ingredients popular like salicylic acid, retinol and glycolic acid. And one such popular item is Vitamin C.
If you’re someone that likes to try out new skincare and beauty products, then Vitamin C in skincare ranges must not be new for you.
Adding vitamin C into your skincare regime has many perks. It is known for the radiance that it imparts and usually suits all skin types.
You can usually find Vitamin C in face wash, face gels, creams, serums, cleansers, toners and even face masks.
So let’s dive into the discussion on Vitamin C for your skincare.
What exactly is Vitamin C?
Vitamin C (also known by the nicknames Ascorbic Acid and L-ascorbic Acid) is a Vitamin (obviously). It is usually obtained from citrus fruits like lime, oranges and lemon.
It is essential for bolstering your immune system, prevent iron deficiency and prevent scurvy.
Typically, you get your daily dose of Vitamin C from your staple diet. And those who don’t meet the requirements through diet have to take supplements.
But does it reach out to your skin? If it doesn’t (or you want quicker results), then you can opt for skincare ranges that sport the vitamin.
So, how will squirting lemon on your face help you?
First of all, Vitamin C is known for its skin brightening properties. Which means it can lighten your skin tone and reduce the appearance of patchy skin.
Then, vitamin C can reduce the visibility of your dark spots, pigmentation and even out your skin.
Vitamin C is rich in antioxidants which reduces free radicals and protects skin against sun damage. You should apply your Vitamin C product before facing the sun. This will shield your skin against the damage caused by UV exposure.
Serums containing vitamin C boost collagen production, which consequently facilitates in providing firmness to your skin.
Vitamin C can also battle your dark circles and fine lines. And brighten the under-eye area. (Because dark circles look cute only on pandas). Grab an eye cream with Vitamin C to get rid of those dark circles.
Ascorbic acid also makes your skin plump, and it is effective against sagged skin.
If you have dry skin, then you can even go for spot treatment. This is a smart way to avoid product wastage and treat only affected areas. Eg. You can use your radiance gel or lemon juice on dark spots instead of smothering it on your whole face.
And lastly, vitamin C face wash and face gels have a pleasing, light citric aroma with a refreshing feel. Yay! Perfect for cleansing hydrating your face in hot, sweaty summers.
Where will you find Vitamin C?
Along with serums, creams, face wash, gels and soaps, Vitamin C can be easily obtained from natural sources as well.
You can add a few drops of lemon or orange to your homemade or DIY face masks. Most of the YouTube guides will advise you to include a few drops along with honey or rose water.
Or you can directly apply lemon juice drops onto your dark spots with cotton swabs or Q tips (the spot treatment mentioned earlier).
Do not squirt lemon juice directly on your face or rub it roughly.
If you have dry or sensitive skin, consider diluting lemon juice with water.
Are there any Side effects?
Fortunately, vitamin C has no severe side effects. (That does not mean you can smear some lemonade on your face.)
But if you have hypersensitive skin, then vitamin C might cause mild irritation. In such cases, it is good to conduct a patch test.
Applying lemon juice directly to affected areas might cause irritation, but does not leave behind any blemishes or rashes.
Do not apply lemon juice or orange juice on dry skin. Dilute it with water or rose water.
And the Verdict…
So, when life gives you lemons, take them! It might be your ticket to the “celebrity” skin.
Vitamin C gels visibly mitigate the appearance of dark spots and pigmentation within a week. Some gels also provide instant radiance and glow.
Vitamin C enhances skin regeneration and boosts collagen production. It is hydrating, and that’s why it is perfect for summer use.
The vitamin will work magic if you have oily skin or normal skin. Those who have dry skin should be a little careful while using vitamin c.
You will see the effects within three weeks of regular use of Vitamin C skincare. In about two months, you will notice a remarkable reduction in hyperpigmentation.
Vitamin C is most effective in serums. Serums are designed to get absorbed in skin quickly. And that’s why you should look for serums with ascorbic acid or L-ascorbic acid.
So, you can pick vitamin C for your regular skincare, or you can use those natural DIY remedies for fixing your skin problems. Either way, vitamin c is a good and safe option for your skin.