Why we should all be using Vitamin C in our skincare routine

Oh how we LOVE thee!⁠

Vitamin C - Think of it like you think of breakfast – super important! This vitamin, frequently used in skincare, is lauded as one of the most powerful antioxidants for your skin. But what actually is it, and how can it improve your skin? We break it all down.

What is it?

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that works to neutralise harmful molecules that damage our skin (aka nasty free radicals and environmental aggressors). But what does this mean? It can help our skin’s natural regeneration and defence, to promote collagen and elastin production leaving the skin’s surface firm, refined and oh so glowy!

What is it used for?

This amazing ingredient can help fight signs of ageing, pigmentation and lacklustre skin. Firstly by protecting the skin from environmental impurities, secondly by inhibiting melanin production and promoting brightening benefits, and thirdly to trigger the skin to regenerate itself, creating youthful skin.

It is available in various concentrations and forms, which our Dermal Therapists can guide you on.

Who should use it?

Vitamin C is an all-in for (mostly) everyone and should be treated as a crucial step in your routine regardless of your skin goals. If you have extremely sensitive or oily skin we recommend asking one of our Dermal Therapists who can guide you on what product is best for your skin type.

What products can I find it in?

It is at its most efficient as an intensive product with a high potency. Because of the hype surrounding this ingredient there are many products on the market that claim the maximum yet deliver the minimum. It can also come in many forms, including powder, crystal and liquid. Whilst liquids tend to be more potent, they do tend to oxidise when consistently exposed to air, so powder and crystal formulas tend to have a longer shelf life.

An active serum with potent ingredients like the O Cosmedics Vitamin C Hemp Seed Oil or the O Cosmedics Pure C + BHA. In short, Vitamin C Hemp Seed Oil and Pure C BHA offer two different forms of Vitamin C for different skins.

Vitamin C Hemp Seed Oil uses ATC Vitamin C, which is the only oil-soluble form of Vitamin C, meaning it’s absorbed well and slowly by the skin’s oil protective layer making for less irritation. This gentle approach makes it perfect for ALL skins including sensitive, dehydrated and those looking for age prevention/management. The added Hemp provides bonus high barrier protection and repair, hydration, soothes inflammation and is anti-bacterial which helps with acne.⁠
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Pure C + BHA is the original in Vitamin C big-guns using pure L-Ascorbic Acid – the most commonly used form of Vitamin C. Being that it packs a punch it’s not as suitable for all skins (especially sensitised ones), but it’s combination of BHA adds an exfoliating and renewing function which is brilliant for clogged, congested, thickened, and aged skins.⁠

How can I add it to my routine?

Vitamin C can be used as part of your morning routine to protect your skin from the sun and environmental contaminants which is preferable. However, it can also be used instead in the evening when the skins Vitamin C is most depleted, try to be consistent as to what time of day you apply. Let it absorb fully on your skin after cleansing and ensure you are also using a serum.

How goes Vitamin C benefit your internal health?

Colder weather means our immune system is more prone to illness, so Vitamin C is crucial. We love the Kiki Health Alkaline Infusion Powder which uses 100% natural ingredients, with high potency Vitamin C from lemon juice powder and acerola cherry powder, together with minerals magnesium and calcium. Simply mix in a teaspoon of this citrus-flavoured powder into water each morning and glow from the inside out!