The Benefits of Vitamin C Serum
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Everyone knows vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that provides many health benefits. But did you know how important it is for your skin? A study conducted by The National Institute of Health, concluded “Vitamin C results in clinically visible and statistically significant improvement in wrinkling when used topically for 12 weeks.” Vitamin C is an essential component of any good skin care routine. I would go so far as to say, if you were to purchase only one professional skin care product, it should be a Vitamin C serum.
Our skin needs Vitamin C to stimulate collagen synthesis, wound healing, and to provide antioxidant protection. We also need its bountiful antioxidant properties. It protects us when we are exposed to UV light (though it is not a sunscreen) and it decreases photo damage (think wrinkle and pigment reduction.) Further, Vitamin C has been shown to protect our skin cell’s DNA and help start the repair process when we have been exposed to the sun’s UV rays. Applied topically to the epidermis, it is readily absorbed into the dermis where our skin’s battle against anti aging begins.
Studies have shown that Vitamin C applied topically provides greater benefit for the skin than when taken as an oral supplement. Do take your vitamins, but if you want to see positive changes in your skin, apply a C serum every morning, followed by a moisturizer and sun protection.
There are many C products on the market, which can be overwhelming when looking to find the best one for you. Here are three things to look for when shopping for vitamin C serum:
- The efficacy of any Vitamin C serum depends on the type of C used, the delivery method, and strength. Look for a serum in strengths ranging from 10 to 20%. Less than 10% is minimally effective, and more than 20% can be irritating; plus in studies higher potency did not provide better results.
- Vitamin C is easily oxidized when exposed to light, which renders it useless, so proper packaging is essential. Products packaged in opaque bottles or tubes are your best option for superior stability. Store products away from sunny windows.
- Not all serums are created equal. Quality ingredients are essential. Look for an acidic preparation of L-ascorbic acid for optimal skin absorption.
Leah Nickie Advanced Aesthetics caries six Vitamin C Serums, and each one meets my strict requirements for potency and efficacy. Schedule a consultation to find out which one is best for you!
