One more skincare item to add to the routine, ugh is it really necessary?! Before we dive into why you need Vitamin C serums in your skincare routine, lemme say that yes, you really should consider adding one to your regimen. Now let’s get into the why before we share the top-rated Vitamin C Serums on the market!
Vitamin C Serums
What is Vitamin C serum?
Vitamin C, also called ascorbic acid, is a potent antioxidant and immune booster which makes it great for anti-aging purposes. Using Vitamin C on your skin can lead to a smoother, more even complexion. It is important to note that though you’re getting vitamin C in your diet, it may not be going to your skin. So this is where the serum form of Vitamin C comes in.
FYI, top vitamin C serums tend to have a 10% concentration of vitamin C and can help with hyperpigmentation, dullness, redness, wrinkles, and more.
Why should I use a Vitamin C Serum?
If improvement in hyperpigmentation, redness, and wrinkles isn’t enough to entice you, read on. Vitamin C serum helps your skin retain moisture and is super hydrating. It also reduces dullness, brightens the skin, and creates a healthy glow. Annnnd it promotes collagen production, which in turn reduces wrinkles and fine lines.
That’s not all. Have you heard of free radicals? Free radicals form thanks to oxygen metabolism that causes damage to cells and tissues through oxidative stress. They are atoms that are missing an electron. So the free radicals will try to steal electrons from other molecules. In regards to your skin, this process can cause significant damage and can accelerate aging and hyperpigmentation.
Guess what counteracts this oxidative stress…antioxidants. We know Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant, so it is perfect for balancing the free radicals. Antioxidants pretty much just give the free radicals an electron, so they are no longer harmful. They call it a pollution preventative for a reason!
All in all, using a topical Vitamin C serum on your skin will help solve countless skin issues…so using one is a no brainer!
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How and when should I use it?
Just a heads up, Vitamin C serum isn’t the most stable product. It tends to oxidize over time, so keep it out of the heat and away from light. If your serum starts turning brown, you should no longer use it!
To capitalize on the free radical negating powers, we use our Vitamin C serum in our morning routine, before applying moisturizer. Also note that Vitamin C reacts negatively with AHAs/BHAs and Retinols, which are usually parts of a nighttime skincare routine. Avoid putting it on at night if you use these active ingredients, or use them on alternating days.
When applying to your skin, gently pat on 3-5 drops all over your face after you cleanse, and tone your skin. We also recommend spot testing a new serum on a small section of your skin before applying it all over the first time! Remember, like with all skincare products, consistency is key. It takes time for visible benefits, but sticking to a routine is the best way to reap the benefits of Vitamin C serum.