Vitamin C has been long touted as a powerhouse ingredient in the realm of skincare, particularly for its remarkable efficacy in treating hyperpigmentation. It has potent antioxidant properties and an ability to inhibit melanin production, which, in turn, brightens the skin and helps you achieve a more even skin tone.Â
With the variety of vitamin C-infused skincare products available in the market, what’s the best option and the right way to use it for the best possible results? Read this complete guide to find out!
What is Vitamin C?
Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that naturally occurs in some foods, like citrus fruits. Unlike other vitamins, humans are unable to synthesise their own Vitamin C, which is readily available in food, supplements and in skincare.
In skincare products, vitamin C comes in different forms, with its own characteristics and benefits, mainly:
- Ascorbic acid (L-Ascorbic acid) — the purest form of vitamin C, highly potent, but can be unstable and prone to oxidation.
- Sodium ascorbyl phosphate — a stable, water-soluble derivative of vitamin C, making it less likely to degrade over time.
- Ascorbyl palmitate — a fat-soluble form of vitamin c, derived from a combination of ascorbic acid and palmitic acid. Although it is a more stable form of vitamin C, it is less potent.
- Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate — A stable, water-soluble vitamin C derivative that can be incorporated in skincare formulations for sensitive skin.
- Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate — A highly-stable oil-soluble vitamin C derivative that can be used in formulations for sensitive skin.
- Vitamin C glycoside (Ascorbic acid glucoside) — A stable yet gentle form of vitamin C that can maintain its efficacy over a long period of time.
How Vitamin C helps with pigmentation
Vitamin C is an effective skincare ingredient for pigmentation and offers the following benefits and properties:
- Inhibits melanin production
- Antioxidant protection
- Brightens skin
- Reduces redness and inflammation
- Encourages collagen production
- Improves skin textureÂ
- Works in combination with other ingredients
How Often Should You Use Vitamin C
How often you should use vitamin C is largely dependent on your skin type, skin concerns, and the type and concentration of vitamin C used. Higher concentrations of vitamin C can irritate the skin, so it’s important to be mindful of your skin’s sensitivity and to adjust the frequency of use based on how your skin reacts to the vitamin C.
When introducing a new vitamin C product, try patch testing on a small area of skin to check for any reactions before applying it to your entire face.
How to Stack Vitamin C with Other Skincare Products
Vitamin C can be combined with other skincare products to maximise its benefits and address pigmentation issues.
Hyaluronic Acid for Hydration
Hyaluronic acid is a humectant that provides deep hydration and retains moisture in the skin. In some cases, vitamin C can be drying. Hyaluronic acid counteracts its drying effects — deeply hydrating skin and providing added comfort by reducing any potential stinging from the vitamin C.Â
Layering technique: Apply vitamin C first and allow it to absorb into the skin. Next, apply a hyaluronic acid serum or moisturiser to provide a hydrating boost.
Niacinamide for Brightening and Anti-inflammatory Effects
Niacinamide, or vitamin B3, offers anti-inflammatory properties and brightens the complexion. The combination of niacinamide and vitamin C, can effectively brighten the skin and even out skin tone. It may even reduce chances of irritation because of niacinamide’s anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the skin.
Layering technique: Apply vitamin C first and allow it to absorb into the skin. Next, apply a niacinamide serum or cream. Some skincare products are already formulated with both ingredients for easy application.Â
Sunscreen for Enhanced Protection
Applying sunscreen after vitamin C makes for an effective strategy to improve and protect your skin. Sunscreen helps prevent further discolouration and shields your skin from the sun’s UV rays, helping you achieve brighter skin.
Layering technique: Apply vitamin C and allow it to absorb into the skin, followed by a moisturiser of your choice. Next, apply a broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher during your morning skincare routine.
Skincare Products You Shouldn’t Use with Vitamin C
Conversely, there are products that can interact negatively with vitamin C, potentially causing irritation or reducing its effects.
Avoid using with Retinoids
Retinoids, such as retinol, tretinoin and adapalene, are potent ingredients that can irritate the skin when used together with vitamin C. To prevent this, you may use vitamin C in the day and retinoids at night before bed – be sure to apply moisturiser or hydration to prevent excessive dryness!
Don’t mix with AHAs/BHAs
Alpha hydroxy acids (glycolic acid, lactic acid and citric acid) and Beta hydroxy acids (salicylic acid) can cause skin irritation and even adversely affect the stability of vitamin C. Try using these active ingredients on alternate days to reduce your chances of skin irritation and prevent hindering the skincare products’ efficacy.
What to Look for in Vitamin C Products
Not all vitamin C products are the same. Before choosing a vitamin C skincare product, it is important to consider your skin type and ensure its suitability for your skin. Look out for the following in vitamin C products:
- The form of vitamin C
- The concentration of vitamin C
- pH levelÂ
- Additional ingredients
- Formulation and texture
- Stability and expiry
Shop our Brightening Vitamin C Serum here.
Get Pigmentation Removal Treatment
Incorporating vitamin C into your skincare routine shouldn’t be complicated. With the right skincare products and regime, you can effectively treat hyperpigmentation and achieve brighter, even-toned skin. To maximise your results, you can also consider a professional pigmentation removal treatment.
SkinLab’s Ultra Bright Vita C Facial is a non-invasive 90-minute treatment that deeply cleanses the skin and lightens pigmentation. Other than vitamin C, it includes ingredients like arbutin whitening essence and plant nutrients, such as pineapple, to achieve radiant skin. Ultrasonic energy is also used to enhance absorption and encourage collagen production for renewed, fresher skin.
Our trained therapists are here to guide you through your selection process, ensuring that you receive the right treatment that is optimised for the best results. Schedule a consultation with us today for a thorough skin analysis and personalised treatment plan.