Your Ultimate Guide To Vitamin C in skin care:

Vitamin C serum is a popular skincare product known for its powerful antioxidant properties, but it can also be a bit daunting to navigate with so many options available. My goal here is to keep things simple and provide you with the essential information you need to decide if a vitamin C serum is right for you. By the end of this blog, you’ll understand the benefits and drawbacks of using vitamin C, learn which brands are worth considering (I have no Affiliation or sponsors with any brands) This is my own honest review and Knowledge.

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L-ascorbic acid (LAA), often referred to as the purest form of vitamin C, is highly regarded in the skincare world for its potent antioxidant properties. As the biologically active form of vitamin C, L-ascorbic acid is directly utilised by the skin to combat free radicals, reduce hyperpigmentation, and boost collagen production. However, its potency comes with challenges. L-ascorbic acid is notoriously unstable and highly sensitive to environmental factors such as light, air, and temperature, which can quickly render it ineffective. This instability means that formulations containing LAA often requires careful packaging and storage, and they tend to be on the pricier side due to the difficulty of maintaining its efficacy. Despite these challenges, when formulated and used correctly, L-ascorbic acid can deliver impressive results, making it a sought-after ingredient in the quest for healthier, more radiant skin.

The expensive stuff often flaunts L-ascorbic acid, the skincare equivalent of a superstar diva. It’s pure, it’s potent, and it’s high-maintenance. L-ascorbic acid loves to perform miracles on your skin – think brighter complexion, reduced wrinkles, and vanquished dark spots. But like I said above it is fussy environmental factors will affect its potency.

Now, the cheaper Vitamin C serums? They’re like the chill, easy-going cousins. They use Vitamin C derivatives like sodium ascorbyl phosphate or magnesium ascorbyl phosphate. These guys don’t need all that fancy packaging and are much more stable, meaning they’re less likely to lose their mojo on your bathroom shelf. They might not bring the instant dazzle like their diva cousin, but they’re still working hard behind the scenes, gradually giving your skin that glow-up. Plus, they’re perfect for those who want the benefits of vitamin C without breaking the bank – or dealing with a diva’s drama!

Blog contents:

Click on one of these links to take you to where you want to read!

How/When to use it

What not to use it with?

High End (Medical Grade) Vit C

Cheaper Alternatives

TOP TIPS;

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The Ultimate Guide To Vit C Serum; How/When to use it:

The Ultimate Guide To Vit C Serum is best used in the Morning, Use your Vitamin C serum in the morning to take advantage of its protective benefits against environmental stressors. Follow with Sunscreen and make Vitamin C a regular part of your skincare routine for the best results. Apply it daily for a noticeable improvement in your skin’s appearance.

Remember Vitamin C is sensitive to light and air, which can degrade its effectiveness. Store in a Cool, Dark Place: Keep your serum away from direct sunlight and heat. A dark bottle can help protect the contents also storing your serum in the fridge can extend its shelf life and maintain its potency.

What not to use it with:

We now know what Vitamin C can do for our skin, however pairing vitamin C with certain skincare ingredients can reduce its efficacy and even cause adverse effects. Due to its unstable nature, using vitamin C incorrectly can lead to skin irritations, breakouts, or increased sensitivity.

Avoid using with;

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs); Examples: Lactic Acid, Malic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Citric Acid, Tartaric Acid

Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs); Examples: Tropic Acid, Betaine Salicylate, Salicylic Acid

These acids can alter the pH balance of vitamin C, reducing its effectiveness and potentially irritating the skin.

Benzoyl Peroxidel; Benzoyl peroxide can oxidize vitamin C, making the combination ineffective. This interaction cancels out the benefits of both ingredients. To avoid this, use them at different times of the day or on alternating days. For example, use vitamin C in the morning and benzoyl peroxide in the evening.

Retinol; Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) is water-soluble, while retinol is oil-soluble. These two do not mix well, similar to oil and water. Combining them can prevent the absorption of vitamin C, nullifying its benefits and potentially causing adverse reactions like itchiness, redness, and irritation. It is best to use vitamin C in your morning routine and retinol in your evening routine. Additionally, always use SPF during the day to protect your skin from sun sensitivity caused by these ingredients.

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High End (Medical Grade) Vit C:

SkinCeuticals - C E Ferulic £165 (Currently my N0.1 Product)

Key Ingredients:

• 15% Pure Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid)

• 1% Vitamin E (alpha tocopherol)

• 0.5% Ferulic acid

Benefits:

• Enhances protection against environmental damage

• Reduces oxidative damage by up to 41%

Cons:

• High price point

Best For:

• All skin types

HydroPeptide - LumaPro-C £127 (Best feel and smell)

Key Ingredients:

• Stabilized Vitamin C

• Resurfacing Peptides

• Resveratrol

Benefits:

• Brightens complexion over time

• Enhances skin texture

• Nourishes and protects skin

Cons:

• High price point

Best For:

• All skin types

IS CLINICAL - Super Serum £95

Key Ingredients:

• Vitamin C time-release technology

• Copper Tripeptide growth factors

Benefits:

• Clinically proven results

• Reduces signs of aging

Cons:

• High price point

Best For:

• All skin types

Medik8 - Super C Ferulic £70

Key Ingredients:

• 30% Stabilized Vitamin C (ethylated L-ascorbic acid)

Benefits:

• Reduces wrinkles and dark spots

• Improves skin firmness

Cons:

• High price point

Best For:

• All skin types

SkinMedica - Vitamin C+E Complex £126

Key Ingredients:

• Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)

• Vitamin C (tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate)

• Vitamin E

Benefits:

• Provides all-day antioxidant protection

• Gradually delivers high levels of vitamins

Cons:

• High price point

Best For:

• All skin types

Cheaper Alternatives:

CeraVe - Skin Renewing Vitamin C Serum £11.60

Key Ingredients:

• 10% Pure Vitamin C

• Ceramides

• Hyaluronic Acid

• Vitamin B5

Benefits:

• Hydrates skin

• Restores the skin barrier

• Brightens complexion

Cons:

• The lightweight texture might not be hydrating enough for very dry skin types.

Best For:

• Normal, combination, and dry skin (except very dry)

Medik8 - C-Tetra Luxe Serum £39

Key Ingredients:

• Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (14% Vitamin C)

Benefits:

• Reduces wrinkles and hyperpigmentation in 4 weeks

• Boosts skin radiance

Cons:

• May still be considered pricey for some

Best For:

• All skin types

La Roche-Posay - 10% Pure Vitamin C £45

Key Ingredients:

• 10% Pure Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)

• Salicylic Acid

Benefits:

• Reduces wrinkles and dullness

• Provides visible radiance and glow

Cons:

• May not be suitable for very sensitive skin

Best For:

• All skin types

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The Ultimate Guide To Vit C Serum Top Tips;

• Your 20s are the perfect time to start using Vitamin C. This powerful antioxidant helps to brighten your complexion, even out skin tone, and protect against environmental damage. It’s a great way to start your skincare journey on the right foot.
  

• It’s important to find a reputable brand. SkinCeuticals is renowned for its effective Vitamin C formulas, but it can be pricey. So look for clinical testing and trials: Look for products that have undergone rigorous testing and have clinical trials backing their effectiveness.
  

• Before and After Photos: Check out real user testimonials and before and after photos to see the product’s impact.
  

• Ingredient List: Make sure Vitamin C is one of the main ingredients. L-ascorbic acid is the most potent form
  

• Patch Test: Before applying it all over your face, do a patch test to ensure you don’t have an adverse reaction.
  

• Wait a few minutes 5-10 after applying Vitamin C let it activate in to the pores before adding moisturiser.

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Disclaimer:

The content provided in this blog post is for informational and educational purposes only. All information shared is based on personal experiences and insights. The author does not claim to be a medical professional, and the content should not be construed as medical advice or a substitute for professional medical guidance. It is essential to consult with your doctor, therapist, or counselor before implementing any practices discussed in this blog post. The author holds no responsibility for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Thank you for your understanding.

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