Benefits of Adding Vitamin C to Your Skin Care Routine

Vitamin C has been praised for its anti-aging and brightening benefits, but studies have shown that it also works as a sun-damage protectant. Using L-ascorbic acid, or vitamin C, on the skin can protect you even further from the sun.

Studies have shown that using sunscreen with Vitamin C protects the skin from further photo damage caused by ultra-violet rays,

Sunscreens above SPF 50 do not offer greater sun protection so, using an antioxidant such as vitamin C will provide a more protective barrier.

Lines and wrinkles can form on the skin due to oxidative stress, a disturbance caused by unstable electrons that attack healthy cells and change their structure. Oxidative stress mainly occurs when the skin is exposed to pollutants and environmental aggressors, such as the sun’s UV rays. When an anti-oxidant such as vitamin C is added to the skin, it combats the oxidative stress, slows the aging process and protects the skin.

While there are several vitamin C products to choose from, it is important to use one that does not contain many additives and has a pH level at 3.5 and concentration level between 10 and 20 percent.

Other benefits to adding vitamin C into a skincare routine include anti-aging, lightening hyperpigmentation caused by acne or sun damage, and fighting inflammation.

Vitamin C products should be applied morning and night with sunscreen for the optimal protection. If it is in the form of a serum it should be applied immediately after cleansing before any other products.