Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is an essential vitamin that the body needs for many reasons. However, it is most beneficial to the skin – particularly the face. Topical serums containing vitamin C have become popular as it is an all-natural ingredient. These serums are preferred over other products because you don’t have to worry about harsh chemicals and their impact on the skin. Excessive exposure to UV light as well as smoking lowers vitamin C content in the epidermis, which is the outer layer of skin cells. These are reasons why you need to replenish vitamin C content in the skin. Here are five benefits of vitamin C serums:
Photoprotection:
One benefit of Vitamin C is that it limits the damage that ultraviolet (UV) light causes to the skin. It protects against and treats UV-induced damage through antioxidant activity. UV light reduces the vitamin C content in the skin; the addition of vitamin C lowers the UV-related damage and increases cell survival. Topical application of Vitamin C is more effective than oral administration because of the more direct route of activity. These serums should be applied before sunblock, and there is also a synergistic effect with vitamin E when it comes to preventing photodamage.
Anti-Wrinkling:
Both photodamage and natural aging contribute to oxidative damage to proteins, which causes wrinkles. In addition to its antioxidative effects, vitamin C plays an important role in the synthesis of collagen. This structural protein keeps the skin elastic and buoyant, contributing to a youthful look. Cell culture models have revealed the benefits of vitamin C supplementation: the vitamin stabilizes collagen mRNA, which boosts protein synthesis and aids in repairing damaged skin.
Improves dry skin:
Topical application of vitamin C can improve the hydration of skin that can’t produce its own moisture. It plumps up the skin and replenishes moisture, without the oils and greasy ingredients of other products. A study on PubMed found a correlation between higher intakes of dietary vitamin C and a decreased risk of dry skin.
Reduces under-eye circles:
Vitamin C serums are especially useful for reducing the appearance of eye bags and puffiness. They can brighten dark circles, and make the skin more elastic and firm. Vitamin C serums that are specifically formulated for the eyes are ideal.
Wound healing:
High levels of vitamin C can speed up the body’s natural healing processes. This makes topical serums ideal for use on the face and other areas to treat small cuts, acne scars, and other blemishes. Vitamin C reduces inflammation and discoloration, helping restore your appearance. People with hyperpigmentation will find vitamin C serums useful for treating their skin condition.