Vitamin C is one of the most asked about skincare ingredients, and it’s easy to see why. Known for its brightening effects (and so much more), vitamin C is an essential part of any skincare routine for every skin type, from oily to sensitive. With a laundry list of anti-aging benefits, vitamin C-infused skincare is an easy addition to any routine to combat hyperpigmentation and give skin that healthy glow. Here, learn more about how to use the dermatologist-loved ingredient, including the benefits of vitamin C and who it’s best for.
What is vitamin C?
Also known as ascorbic acid, vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps the skin fight off free-radical damage (think pollution and UV rays) when applied topically. Unlike other ingredients, like hyaluronic acid, our bodies don’t naturally produce vitamin C, so getting a dose in skincare products is a must to reap its benefits. Vitamin C comes in different forms (with many different names), but pure vitamin C is the most effective. Vitamin C is often listed as ascorbic acid or L-ascorbic acid on skincare labels. While it can do plenty for the skin, vitamin C can be tricky to formulate since elements like air and light can break it down, rendering it ineffective. So, it’s essential to use a vitamin C product that has been formulated and packaged properly.
What are the benefits of using it in a skincare routine?
While it’s much-loved for its antioxidant properties, vitamin C has other benefits as well. It’s an anti-aging powerhouse because it can help promote collagen production. Collagen is a protein that keeps skin firm and plump and is naturally produced by the body. Along with protecting the skin from UV damage (especially when paired with a daily SPF like La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral One SPF 50+ Tinted Facial Sunscreen), vitamin C can help fade and suppress pigmentation, giving skin a clear, radiant finish.
Who should use vitamin C?
In a word—everyone! Whether you are looking to fade hyperpigmentation or want to protect your skin from further damage, vitamin C is a great addition to every skincare routine. Often recommended by dermatologists for every skin type and age, vitamin C is a yes for anyone looking to add a brightening boost to their skin.
How do I add it to my skincare routine?
As mentioned before, vitamin C is tricky to formulate in skincare. So, it’s important to choose vitamin C products that are created and packaged to keep the ingredient fresh and effective.
- Since serums can be more easily absorbed into the skin, a vitamin C serum is an excellent way to get your daily hit of antioxidants in a morning routine. La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C10 Anti-Aging Serum contains 10% pure vitamin C in a hypoallergenic, non-irritating formula that also contains salicylic and hyaluronic acids for a trifecta of anti-aging ingredients.
- Using a moisturizer with vitamin C is another option. La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C10 Anti-Aging Concentrate Cream is safe for all skin types, including sensitive, and provides the skin with lightweight hydration.
- Last, but not least, a vitamin C eye cream can help strengthen and brighten the eye area. La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C10 Anti-Aging Eye Cream contains 5% pure vitamin C and hyaluronic acid in a non-greasy cream that leaves the eye area radiant and hydrated.
