Vitamin C is an antioxidant that is found naturally in the body. In fact, of all the antioxidants in the human skin, Vitamin C is present in maximum abundance. So, is there a case for the topical use of this nutrient? And why not take it orally instead of applying it directly to the skin? After all, green vegetables and citrus fruits are rich in Vitamin C and many have them for this very reason.
The truth of the matter is there exist certain reasons that will encourage you to use Vitamin C topically, 4 of which are mentioned below:
Absorption of oral Vitamin C is limited
Vitamin C, when taken orally, can only be absorbed to a certain extent. An active transportation process inhibits its assimilation through the small intestine. Moreover, Vitamin C’s bio availability too is insufficient when it is consumed orally.
Ascorbic acid has a low molecular weight and can easily penetrate the epidermis to reach the underlying dermis. This is how topical Vitamin C benefits the skin. It is important to choose a high quality Vitamin C product, such as one from a pharmaceutical skincare line. Those found at beauty counters and drug stores are often not potent enough to deliver noticeable results.
Topical antioxidants boost sunscreens potency
Sunscreens block the free radicals produced as a result of UV exposure, but not completely. They are particularly effective when coupled with topical antioxidants that also tend to neutralize free radicals and have a UV-protective effect rather than absorbing ultraviolet light.
Effective treatment for melasma
Vitamin C reduces melanin production and to see starkly noticeable results, you can try using a topical formulation made of Vitamin C plus a penetration facilitator. After four months, you could witness a major drop in the pigmentation that melasma causes. Vitamin C is also a safe treatment for Melasma year round.
Solid facts
Topical Vitamin C is 20 times more effective than its oral counterpart. Its daily use could really allow you to tap into the nutrient’s photoprotective and antioxidant qualities. Antioxidant serums help fight noticeable signs of aging. However, you need to beware serums that oxidize in the containers they are stored in. They will change from a clear/pale yellow consistency to a dark yellow/brown. As they oxidize, they become less potent.
The health benefits of Vitamin C are plentiful. It is vital to the production of collagen and makes one’s immune system stronger. Vitamin C is known to have anti-inflammatory properties as well. However, its presence in the human body is never the same, especially when old age begins to catch up. Smoking, pollution, and UV radiation too take their toll on the proper availability of this all-important nutrient. Topical application gives you the opportunity to make up for the aforementioned loss.
Our recommendation:
Alumier MD EverActive C&E®
Suitable for all skin types, this vitamin C powder is kept separate in a unique cap and only mixed into the bottle of serum when you are ready to use it. Your package will come with 3 x 15ml bottles, meaning less oxidation as you finish one bottle before activating the next.
If you are interested in adding Vitamin C to your skincare regime, we would love to invite you in for a complimentary consultation with our skincare specialist nurse, Montana. Discuss your concerns one-on-one and take home a custom plan developed specifically for your skin needs. Please call 778-484-5560 ext #1 to book.
