8 things you need to know before using the vitamin C
Vitamin C has so far been positioned as the ultimate solution for hyperpigmentation and skin brightness. Marketed as an antioxidant-rich formulation that helps in collagen synthesis and improved skin health, vitamin C may be effective but not without causing sensitivity issues in certain people. Before we delve further into this part, let’s understand exactly why vitamin C has gained popularity.
The ultimate benefits of using vitamin C
Photoprotection : Vitamin C reduces damage caused by excessive sun exposure by fighting free radicals. But it is not a replacement for sunscreen.
Anti-wrinkle: Vitamin C regulates collagen synthesis, a structural protein which can reverse some age-related structural changes.
Lighten dark spots : Vitamin C-based skincare can lighten darker patches, also called hyperpigmentation.
While vitamin C offers many benefits, it is an unstable ingredient. Therefore, you must use vitamin C formulations with caution. These tips from our skincare experts will help you choose the best vitamin C skincare.
Expert tips for choosing high-quality vitamin C
You must know how to select high-quality vitamin C that works best for your skin type. You should always inspect the formula and concentration before purchasing.
1. The first thing to do is a patch test to assess your risk of allergic reaction.
2. Choose L-ascorbic acid. This form of topical vitamin C is the most active and researched. Other types of vitamin C, like magnesium ascorbyl phosphate or ascorbyl palmitate, are not as effective as L-ascorbic acid.
3. Choose a potent formulation. Look for serums with a concentration of vitamin C between 5–20%. Always start with a low concentration if you’re using it for the first time.
Vitamin C formulations have gained immense popularity in recent years, but it does not work for everyone. The main reason is that the ingredient can oxidise quickly, leading to inflammation and irritation. It also increases your skin’s photosensitivity, which results in collagen breakdown. That is why so many people experience acne after using vitamin C. If you do not want to face the adverse effects of vitamin C, you must avoid these mistakes.
Mistakes to avoid while using vitamin C
Incorrect layering: You should always use vitamin C with sunscreen to avoid the adverse effects of photosensitivity and at the right point in the skincare routine – after cleansing and before moisturising.
Mixing other ingredients : Avoid mixing vitamin C with certain ingredients, like benzoyl peroxide and retinol. These ingredients oxidise vitamin C, reducing its effectiveness.
Using the wrong concentration: There are different concentrations available – between 5–20%. The same concentration may not work for everyone and may not even suit everyone.
Improper storage : Vitamin C should be stored away from direct sunlight and humidity. Exposure to sunlight can oxidise it and change its colour.
Due to its unstable nature, vitamin C is not exactly an easy ingredient. Plus, it does not work the same for everyone. While it helps with collagen synthesis, it does not benefit in calming skin inflammation or reducing melanin production. This means that vitamin C is ineffective in working on all the root causes of hyperpigmentation. It’s no wonder many people complain about vitamin C not reducing hyperpigmentation.
Hence, skincare experts recommend adopting a collaborative approach with a technologically-driven solution that addresses all aspects of hyperpigmentation.
Why choose VB3+HR+RPC over vitamin C
Each of the three ingredients included in the VB3+HR+RPC trio serves a unique purpose and is directed at each issue tied to hyperpigmentation. Vitamin B3 or niacinamide (VB3) inhibits melanin transfer and calms skin inflammation, hexylresorcinol (HR) modulates melanin production, and retinyl propionate, along with a retinol booster (RPC), improves cell turnover. All three work in tandem to reduce hyperpigmentation in 4 weeks. The formulation has also been clinically proven to even out the skin tone within eight weeks. This high-science formulation is borne out of robust clinical studies and is backed by experts.Although vitamin C helps heal, moisturise, and protect your skin, it does not provide a holistic solution for hyperpigmentation. That’s why you need advanced high-science technology like VB3+HR+RPC to reduce hyperpigmentation at its very root.
