Vitamin c for the face: what you did not know
Vitamin c for the face
Did you know that Vitamin C can be used during the day? And that some products with this ingredient can be oxidized and damage your skin? Here we will tell you all the myths and facts about Vitamin C, one of the most potent antioxidants. Keep on reading to know everything!
- How many types of Vitamin C are there?
Because Vitamin C is highly oxidizable, derivatives of this and other forms of the Vitamin have emerged to make it more stable. Some forms of Vitamin C are more effective than others. Here are its main characteristics so that you can choose the best option for you.
Ascorbic Acid (Pure Vitamin C)
L-ascorbic acid is the purest form of vitamin C; it is 100% soluble in water; this Vitamin is used in both skin care products and supplements and vitamins.
It is not very stable in cosmetic products such as serums and creams, so different formulation techniques stabilize it. However, it does not always result in an effective formulation.
Ethylated Ascorbic Acid
It is the most stable form of vitamin C known to date. It is a molecule with a carbon chain attached to the most reactive part of its structure, which prevents it from oxidizing and can reach the skin with its maximum antioxidant power.
It is ideal for reducing melasma spots, preventing wrinkles and sagging because it promotes collagen and elastin synthesis in the skin. In addition, it provides a maximum luminosity and protects cells from free radicals. It has a molecular weight closer to the natural Vitamin C, allowing obtaining results in less time.
Its only disadvantage is that it is an ingredient 100 times more expensive than other forms of vitamin C, but do not be discouraged; there are products on the market that contain this Vitamin at fair prices.
Ascorbyl Palmitate (Vitamin C Ester)
Ascorbyl palmitate is a derivative of Vitamin C that is formed from ascorbic acid and palmitic acid.
It is commonly used in the food industry and skincare products. Despite being a fat-soluble substance (soluble in oil), it is not very stable. Furthermore, as it is a mixture of acids, it does not offer the same effects as ascorbic acid.
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (TDA)
It is a derivative of vitamin C that penetrates deep into the skin’s lipid barrier, reducing the signs of aging and unifying skin tone.
Upon penetrating the skin, it becomes L-ascorbic acid. It is a good ingredient but being a derivative of vitamin C, the results on each skin may vary depending on the synthesis that each individual can achieve.
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (SAP)
It is another derivative of vitamin C, and like TDA, it is a substance that the body transforms into L-ascorbic acid. For this reason, it will depend on how each person’s body reacts to take advantage of its benefits. It helps reduce skin blemishes and reduce signs of aging.
- Vitamin C is easily oxidized
When L-ascorbic acid is exposed to oxygen, it tends to oxidize and lose effectiveness. We may realize that it has ceased to be functional or that it has expired due to its color and odor change. If you notice a rust smell, a yellowish, orange, or brown color, it means that it is oxidized.
The ideal Vitamin for skincare products is ethylated vitamin C since, due to its chemical structure, it is more stable and maintains its properties better.
- Oxidized Vitamin C: What Happens to Your Skin
A product with oxidized Vitamin C can harm your skin. It occurs because when oxidized, it produces alterations in the skin that accelerate its aging.
To prevent any Vitamin C from oxidizing, it is essential to store the serum or cream in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Vitamin C and the sun
For a long time, it was believed that Vitamin C should only be used at night because the skin would stain in the presence of light. However, this is a myth.
Today, topical Vitamin C has been shown to protect the skin against harmful UVA rays while helping to boost its antioxidant defenses. It is recommended to apply Vitamin C serums in the morning before adding daily sunscreen.
- Vitamin C for the eye contour
Vitamin C eye serums help brighten and smooth the eye contour area from dark circles to crow’s feet. They reduce some types of dark circles and improve the appearance of bags.
However, it is essential to ensure that Vitamin C does not have direct contact with the eyes as it can irritate them.
- Ideal age to use Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a multifunctional antioxidant that can be used at practically any age. It is recommended to use it from 20 to provide luminosity and protect cells from free radicals.
In more mature skin, it helps reduce difficult spots such as melasma and helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles, as it stimulates the production of natural collagen and elastin in the skin.
- Vitamin C and sensitive skin
People with sensitive or reactive skin can also enjoy the benefits of Vitamin C. For a Vitamin C serum to be well tolerated in sensitive skin, it must have an adequate pH, that is, from 5 to 6 approximately, and not contain photosensitizing ingredients in its formulation.\
Now that you know the whole truth about Vitamin C and its uses, you can lose your fear and add it to your skincare routine. Leave us in the comments what surprised you the most about this powerful antioxidant; we love to hear your opinion!
