Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that counteracts free radicals, which when exposed to certain conditions, such as UV rays and pollution, are generated by our bodies. A balance between antioxidants and free radicals is essential – if free radicals flood our body and stop its ability to control them, oxidative stress may occur. In fact, free radicals can negatively impact proteins, DNA, and lipids; damage our cells and prevent the skin from repairing itself; cause a variety of diseases and decrease collagen production.
Antioxidants such as vitamin C can aid in the bodies ability to cope with stress – and the resulting benefits are….
Anti-Aging
As we age, collagen production decreases. Vitamin C serum stimulates the production of collagen. Collagen is a protein which holds cells together, strengthens our skin, and provides it with elasticity. All of these are important for a toned, healthy complexion. The best vitamin C serum boosts our skins ability to make collagen, softening fine lines and wrinkles, while at the same time preventing new ones from forming.
Aids with Acne and Acne Scarring
Since vitamin C is anti-inflammatory, it means that a vitamin C serum can aid with clearing up existing acne as well as reducing the redness related to it. Vitamin C serum also can improve skin texture. Board-certified dermatologist Rhonda Q. Klein, M.D. says that acne scars may be reduced as well due to the pro-elastin and pro-collagen effects of vitamin C. If you have acne, prior to applying the Timeless serum, be sure to exfoliate for increased penetration.
Fight Against Hyperpigmentation
By preventing the production of melanin and inhibiting the tyrosinase enzyme, vitamin C serums fight hyperpigmentation. The vitamin C serum process does not lighten overall skin tone while it brightens dark spots.
Protects Against Sun Damage
Vitamin C serum may be able to protect you from harmful UV rays and it may even be able to reverse some damage the suns rays already had on your skin. However, vitamin C serum may be many, many things, but one of them is not a sunscreen. So, be sure to keep your SPF. Nevertheless, while it is not a sunscreen, it can be an excellent factor of your daily UV-fighting regimen as it can diminish the harm of UV rays.
Can You Layer Other Skin Care Products with Vitamin C Serum?
Klein says, “Dermatologists love layering products!” She advises layering skincare products from lower to highest pH.
If or when applied in an incorrect order, vitamin C serum does not lose any of its potency. However, to increase absorption when layering skin products, apply from lowest to highest pH. After the vitamin C serum considers adding B5, hyaluronic acid and peptides. However, there is one exception and that is with products containing niacinamide; as when combined with vitamin C, it turns to niacin which could have a short-term skin tingling and redness in those with sensitive skin.
Generally speaking, you will want to cleanse and tone after you apply your vitamin C serum, but before you use moisturizer.
