Have you ever hesitated to use Vitamin C in your skincare routine for fear of staining your skin? Don’t worry, it’s normal, as the claim that Vitamin C stains the skin is a very common myth in the skincare world. This idea circulates on social media and beauty forums, but is it true? Can such a beneficial ingredient for the skin be harmful? The short answer is NO. Keep reading to find out why.
The use of Vitamin C in cosmetics
In the world of cosmetics, Vitamin C is found in various formats: serums, creams, masks, or ampoules, the latter being the most popular due to its high concentration and rapid absorption. The ampoule format is ideal for this ingredient as it seals the product and prevents oxidation.
In cosmetics, it’s recommended to apply Vitamin C in the morning before sunscreen to enhance its antioxidant effect and protect the skin from free radical damage such as UVA rays and pollution. Although traditionally recommended for morning use, it’s also acceptable to use it at night as it aids in the cell regeneration that occurs at this time of day.
The real benefits of Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant with numerous benefits for the skin. Its remarkable ability to combat free radicals makes it an essential ingredient in facial care. Its main benefits are:
- It brightens the complexion and helps reduce hyperpigmentation . One of the most noticeable effects of Vitamin C is the radiance and even tone it leaves on the skin. It helps reduce dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and acne scars. Consistent use of this ingredient results in brighter skin and a more even tone.
- It stimulates collagen production . Collagen is a key protein that keeps skin firm, elastic, and youthful. Over time, collagen production decreases. This leads to wrinkles and sagging skin. Vitamin C plays a crucial role in collagen synthesis, helping to keep skin smoother, firmer, and more resistant to premature aging.
- Protect against sun damage and free radicals . Vitamin C does not replace sunscreen, but rather acts as an additional defense against damage caused by ultraviolet radiation. Its antioxidant properties neutralize free radicals generated by sun exposure, pollution, or other factors.
-
Debunking the Vitamin C myth
This myth stems primarily from these two factors:
- Vitamin C oxidizes : Vitamin C is photosensitive, meaning it degrades when exposed to light and air, losing effectiveness over time. However, this does not mean it will cause skin blemishes. To preserve the product, it is recommended to store it in a cool place and close the container tightly after each use to prevent the vitamin C from losing its properties.
- The incorrect use of Vitamin C with sun exposure: Vitamin C is not photosensitizing, meaning it doesn’t make the skin more sensitive to the sun. In fact, using it with sunscreen enhances your skin’s defense against UV rays. However, if you don’t use sunscreen, UV rays can cause dark spots on their own, regardless of whether you’ve used Vitamin C or not.
-
How to use Vitamin C correctly? The definitive guide on its use:
- Use it in your morning routine . Using it in the morning is ideal as it acts as a protective barrier against free radicals and external pollution, in addition to unifying skin tone and stimulating collagen production.
- Store it properly to prevent oxidation and extend its shelf life. Keep it in a cool place, away from light and heat. The ampoule format of Praxis Laboratories’ Vit C Plus Proteoglycans is ideal because it keeps the Vitamin C fresh and effective for longer. Containing small amounts of product in individual, sealed containers minimizes exposure to air and light, preventing oxidation. If you notice a change in color or smell, this indicates that the Vitamin C has lost its effectiveness.
- Always combine Vitamin C with sunscreen . Once you’ve applied Vitamin C, the last step in your skincare routine should be applying sunscreen. You can use ProteoSunscreen SPF50+. In combination with Vitamin C, it will not only protect your skin from premature aging but also keep it brighter and more even-toned. Use them together to maximize their benefits!
- Now that you know the truth, don’t let a myth stop you from having brighter, healthier skin. Start using your Vitamin C without fear and enjoy all its benefits!
