Of all the skincare ingredients under the sun, vitamin C is by far the most popular and it is a game changer for every skin type. From treating acne and reversing sun damage to plumping up your skin and diminishing signs of ageing, there seems to be no stone left unturned by this powerful skincare ingredient. So how come a few find it irritating on their skin?
The truth is since vitamin C is an active ingredient, you need to use the right form and right concentration of it, according to your skin type. A dermat’s guidance is helpful in this situation, but even if your skin is compatible with OTC products, using vitamin C correctly can be tricky if you’re not aware of its effects and results. If vitamin C is on your skincare wishlist (and it should be), don’t let naysayers and incorrect skincare steps defeat you. Here’s a clear guide on how to add this power ingredient to your skincare routine.
What Is Vitamin C?
Also known as ascorbic acid, this active ingredient is derived from citrus fruits and vegetables. It protects your skin from sun damage, free radical damage, and pollution. It also helps with minimising and preventing signs of ageing and acne. It is usually found in serum format which is the best suited for active ingredients, although with latest product developments, vitamin C is also being used in other skincare products like cleansers, creams, masks, and more.
How To Use It?
Since it’s best used in serum form, you need to use it after cleansing and toning your skin and before applying moisturiser. The best vitamin C serums do not leave your skin greasy and so they are well suited to be worn underneath moisturiser. If your skin allows it, you can even use a back to back dose of the ingredient through a vitamin C face cleanser, toner, serum and moisturiser range. Because it is highly effective in fighting sun damage and free radical damage, it is best to use this ingredient during the day as that’s when you need it the most.
Vitamin C With Other Popular Active Ingredients
Hyaluronic Acid + Vitamin C
Since hyaluronic is ultra hydrating and works as a humectant, you can pair it with vitamin C without having to worry about skin trouble. First apply your vitamin C serum as it will be lighter in consistency than your HA serum. After layering on both serums you can lock in the moisture with a cream or gel. You can even use your vitamin C serum with an HA moisturiser to cut down on steps.
Retinol + Vitamin C
Retinol also has a reputation for being an irritant if not used properly. Therefore you cannot layer it with vitamin C, but you can use it in one day, just at separate times. Since vitamin C is best suited for day use and retinol is strictly recommended for the night, you can reap the benefits of both actives by using them separately in your AM and PM skin routines.
The Results
Short term, you will find your skin texture looking more healthy and radiant. And in th elong term, you will notice that your skin has gotten bouncy and firm with reduced dark spots or breakouts.
Of course you need good quality products if you want to hop on the vitamin C skincare trend. For that we recommend:
With this guide to using vitamin C, you should have no trouble whatsoever in attaining your healthiest skin yet.
Also Read: Vitamin E Foods
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