All About Vitamin C

In the world of skincare, Vitamin C is a powerhouse antioxidant ingredient synonymous with brighter, more even-toned skin. Naturally present in the body, this vitamin works to maintain healthy skin by stimulating collagen production and providing antioxidant protection against UV-induced photo damage.

Collagen production tends to decrease with age, and Vitamin C helps boost collagen formation, promoting skin firmness and elasticity. And, when applied topically, this active ingredient also works to brighten discoloration and deliver a more radiant complexion.   

Read on for our Skin Laundry guide to Vitamin C and why you should incorporate it into your skincare routine.    

What is Vitamin C?  

Vitamin C is a vitamin that is naturally present in the skin but levels deplete as we age and after exposure to oxidant stress caused by pollutants and UV irradiation.

While our bodies cannot produce additional Vitamin C, and limits the amount ingested through diet available to the skin, the good news is that studies show applying this ingredient topically can deliver high doses of Vitamin C into skin and top up your reserves of this crucial antioxidant.  

How does Vitamin C benefit your skin?  

When it comes to topical Vitamin C, the skincare benefits are numerous:

Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant, protecting the skin from free radical damage and fends off premature skin aging caused by UV damage, which in turn can prevent the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven texture.  

Vitamin C reduces the appearance of dark spots and discoloration by blocking the overproduction of melanin.

Vitamin C may help with acne, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties and reduce redness and swelling.

Vitamin C stimulates collagen production, which can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and improve the overall tone and texture of the skin.

Vitamin C provides protection from harmful UV rays although it should never be used as a replacement for SPF.   

What are the different types of Vitamin C used in skincare? 

There are several different types of Vitamin C used in skincare formulations. At Skin Laundry we prefer Ethyl Ascorbic Acid: a stable, water- and oil-soluble derivative of pure Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) that offers all the benefits Vitamin C is known for, such as brightening, wrinkle reduction, visible firming, fading hyperpigmentation to restore a more even skin tone, and offsetting numerous triggers of environmental damage.  

When and how often should you use Vitamin C topically?  

According to studies, Vitamin C is best used after exposure to UV light, so you can get additional benefits by incorporating it into your evening routine during the summer months in place of Retinol, which can increase sun sensitivity.  

Vitamin C can also be combined with Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid to further boost their antioxidant and collagen-stimulating properties and to deliver a brighter, plumper complexion.  

While safe for daily use, Vitamin C and its side effects on skin include irritation and increased sensitivity, especially if mixed with other acids such as AHAs or BHAs. However, they can be used on the same day, just at different times.

We recommend using Vitamin C products in the morning and AHAs or Retinoids at night.