With new-fangled ingredients and claims of perfect skin in a bottle, it can be daunting and, at times, downright confusing to decide which skincare products to invest in and which to leave out altogether.
Well, before you throw your hands up in exasperation, here is the lowdown on one of the ingredients that has stood the test of time and has absolutely earned its spot in the ‘must-have’ category. No matter what skin type you have or skin concerns you are struggling with, there is a high chance that vitamin C can help you improve them in some way.
It is a legendary skincare ingredient for a reason, and that reason is really very simple: it works. Whether you suffer from uneven skin tone, pigmentation, texture, fine lines, acne scars, or just all-around dullness, vitamin C, and the skincare products it is featured in, are probably a recommended treatment. So, here is everything you need to know about the product that has been on everybody’s lips, and skin, for a decade now.
What is vitamin C?
In its most basic form, vitamin C works as a potent antioxidant that aids in your skin’s regeneration process, helping to repair damaged skin cells and bring out a brighter-glowier you.
This ingredient is naturally found in fruits and vegetables, but in skincare, it comes in a more concentrated and stable form to maximise its benefits. When it penetrates the skin, it helps to neutralise free radicals caused by environmental aggressors like UV rays and pollution. Over time, it can improve the skin’s overall health while also protecting it from future damage.
The most effective forms of vitamin C used in skincare include ascorbic acid (sometimes listed as L-ascorbic acid), sodium ascorbyl phosphate, and tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate. These forms vary slightly in their stability, penetration ability, and effectiveness, but all deliver the same key benefits when formulated correctly.
Which skin concerns does vitamin C help treat?
Vitamin C is often referred to as a ‘multi-tasking hero’ because of the wide range of skin concerns it can help treat. One of its most famous benefits is its ability to brighten dull skin. This is because vitamin C inhibits the overproduction of melanin, the pigment responsible for dark spots and uneven skin tone which can make the skin look dull.
It is also effective at fading hyperpigmentation, including acne scars and sunspots, giving the skin a more even-toned appearance over time. If you are dealing with redness or blotchiness, vitamin C can help calm and soothe inflammation, making it a great option for those with sensitive or reactive skin.
Another major benefit is its anti-ageing properties. Vitamin C supports the skin’s production of collagen, a protein responsible for maintaining elasticity and firmness. By boosting collagen levels, vitamin C can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
And if that wasn’t enough to have you adding to cart, vitamin C also protects the skin against environmental damage. It works as a shield, neutralising free radicals that can break down collagen and elastin, leaving your skin healthier, stronger, and more resilient.
What are the benefits of vitamin C in skincare?
It would probably be faster to write what benefits vitamin C doesn’t have, but that might be slightly confusing, so here are a few of the main benefits.
Brighter complexion
Vitamin C boosts radiance and leaves your skin with a lit-from-within glow. It works by neutralising free radicals that cause dullness, restoring your skin's natural vibrancy. With consistent use, your complexion will look fresher, healthier, and more energised.
Evens skin tone
It reduces the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation, leading to a smoother, more uniform complexion. Vitamin C inhibits melanin production, which is responsible for uneven tone, making it an excellent choice for tackling post-acne marks or sunspots. Over time, it helps reveal a brighter, more even skin tone.
Fights signs of ageing
By stimulating collagen production, it helps keep the skin firm, plump, and youthful-looking. Collagen is essential for maintaining elasticity, and with age, its natural production declines, vitamin C works to counteract this. Fine lines and wrinkles are softened, leaving your skin looking rejuvenated and refreshed.
Protects against environmental damage
Its antioxidant properties protect your skin from pollutants and other external aggressors. Vitamin C forms a protective barrier against UV damage and oxidative stress, which can accelerate signs of ageing. Think of it as a shield that defends your skin while supporting its natural repair processes.
Improves skin texture
Regular use can refine skin texture, leaving it smoother and more refined. Vitamin C promotes gentle cell turnover, helping to minimise the appearance of rough patches and uneven areas. The result is soft, supple skin with a velvety-smooth finish.
Who should be using vitamin C?
Vitamin C is one of those versatile ingredients that works for nearly everyone, regardless of skin type. If you have dry skin, vitamin C can help boost hydration and reduce flakiness. Those with oily or acne-prone skin can benefit from its anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce redness and promote healing. If you are concerned about ageing, pigmentation, or dullness, vitamin C is your go-to. It is especially beneficial if you live in a city or an area with high pollution levels, as it provides essential protection against free radicals.
However, it is worth noting that vitamin C can sometimes be slightly irritating, particularly for those with sensitive skin or conditions like rosacea. If you are new to vitamin C, start with a lower concentration and gradually work your way up as your skin builds tolerance.
How to use vitamin C in your skincare routine
The golden rule of using vitamin C is consistency. It is not enough to use it sporadically and expect results; you need to apply it daily.
And it serves its purpose at both ends of the day. In the morning, vitamin C can provide an added layer of protection against environmental stressors like UV rays and pollution. Pair it with a broad-spectrum sunscreen for maximum defence. In the evening, it can help repair damage from the day while working overnight to improve your skin.
Always apply vitamin C to clean, dry skin, and follow up with a moisturiser to lock in hydration. If you are layering it with other active ingredients, make sure to avoid using it with retinol or exfoliating acids in the same routine, as this can lead to irritation. Instead, alternate them on different days or use vitamin C in the morning and retinol in the evening.
Which products should I pair with my vitamin C?
To get the most out of your vitamin C serum, pairing it with the right products is key. For hydration, combine it with a hyaluronic acid serum. Applying hyaluronic acid first helps to deeply hydrate your skin, allowing the vitamin C to penetrate more effectively.
If you are targeting uneven skin tone or fine lines, follow your vitamin C serum with a nourishing moisturiser that includes peptides or ceramides. These ingredients work alongside vitamin C to boost your skin’s repair and renewal processes.
In the daytime, always layer your vitamin C serum with a broad-spectrum SPF. Vitamin C and sunscreen are the ultimate power couple, offering enhanced protection against UV damage while neutralising free radicals caused by sun exposure. At night, you can pair vitamin C with anything except retinol, niacinamide and vitamin C go together like peas and carrots for example.
Which vitamin C serum should I use?
The mark of a good skincare product is simple: it should do what it says it is going to do. But Skinsmiths is a bit of an overachiever with its vitamin C serum because it goes above and beyond expectations.
Skinsmiths PRO Strength Vitamin C Serum is a high-performance formula designed to reduce and prevent the signs of photoageing. It features StayC-50, a stabilised and water-soluble form of vitamin C at a 10% concentration, which ensures maximum effectiveness without compromising on gentleness.
This serum is perfect for improving skin tone, reducing the appearance of fine lines, and brightening dull complexions. What sets it apart is its ability to deliver these results while being suitable for daily use, thanks to its stabilised formula that reduces the risk of irritation.
Its lightweight texture absorbs quickly into the skin, making it a perfect addition to both your morning and evening routine. Use it after cleansing and before moisturising for best results.
Whether you are a vitamin C newbie or a seasoned pro, this serum is a great choice for anyone looking to incorporate this powerhouse ingredient into their skincare regime.
To wrap it up
Vitamin C has proven that it has transcended past trend status, and has secured its place as a timeless skincare staple. From brightening dull complexions to reducing fine lines and protecting against environmental damage, this ingredient has something to offer everyone.
If you are ready to add vitamin C to your skincare routine, the Skinsmiths PRO Strength Vitamin C Serum is the perfect place to start. With its stabilised formula and proven effectiveness, it is a product that delivers real results and earns its spot on your bathroom shelf.
So, what are you waiting for? Glow up with vitamin C and let your skin experience the difference.
