Vitamin C for your Skin

What is Vitamin C

Vitamin C is crucial to the body's immune system, and serves as an aggressive free-radical fighter. Vitamin C was originally used in skin care products in the form of ascorbic acid. At a 10% concentration and low ph, ascorbic acid has been shown to stimulate collagen, decrease wrinkle depth and have lightening effects on pigmentation. It was thought that a minimum 10% concentration was required but newer information indicates that lower concentration (5%) may have benefit. It is best to stay with products that have this concentration or above.

 

Benefit to Skin

Vitamin C's function as an antioxidant also benefits the skin, as it is able to protect the skin from damaging free radicals.  Besides, Vitamin C is used in skin care as a strong antioxidant, especially in regard to protecting the skin from sun damage. It strengthens the skin barrier and thickens the dermis. It can expedite the healing of wounds and reduce inflammation. In high concentrations, it can reduce the appearance of skin discoloration. Most important, Vitamin C is a prime ingredient of collagen, the substance that binds cells together. Collagen metabolism and production is are key attributes of healthy, radiant, younger looking skin.

 

Serum VS Moisturizer

A facial serum is not the same as a facial moisturizer, and most cosmetic skin-care lines offer (and recommend) both. A serum, often lighter and thinner in consistency compared to a moisturizer, is applied to the face after cleansing, and before the moisturizer. Serums usually have specific functions, such as anti-aging or free-radical protection. Serums are able to penetrate deep into the skin layers, while moisturizers address only the superficial surface tissue and its condition.

 

 

Suggestion

While vitamin C provides sun-protection benefits, its topical application, as in a facial serum, is not a substitute for sunscreen protection. A moisturizer with an SPF, or a separate SPF lotion should be applied daily.

You can get the natural Vitamin C from the normal fruit:

Top 7 Fruits For Vitamin C Content

 

1. Guava, 1 medium, 165 mg
2. Papaya, 1 cup, 87 mg
3. Strawberries, 1 cup, 84 mg
4. Kiwi, 1 medium, 74 mg
5. Cantaloupe, 1 cup, 68 mg
6. Orange, 1 medium, 75 mg
7. Grapefruit, half, 42 mg