VITAMIN C: THE HOLY GRAIL OF SKIN CARE

Pigmentation, scars, darkening or uneven tone — the ingredient can be an answer to most of your woes

It was the most searched beauty ingredient of 2017. It has long been sought-after when it comes to skin care. But it isn’t just a fad — vitamin C is recommended even by dermatologists as a solution for multiple skin problems. It improves skin tone and texture, reduces pigmentation, heals sun-burnt skin, helps remove tan, is a great antioxidant, can even lighten spots and acne scars — it answers most of your skincare questions. But where do you get it? Dermatologist Dr Rajat Kandhari advises, “L-Ascorbic Acid is what one should look out for — typically 20% and in amber bottles or airless pumps is ideal as it prevents oxidation. At times, ferulic acid or hyaluronic acid is added to prevent oxidation. The right derivative should be used for penetration into the skin and the right pH.”

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Vitamin C promotes healthy collagen production, repairs skin tissues and aids in the regeneration of skin cells, thus fighting premature ageing. “It is effective as a depigmenting agent, too, as it prevents melanosomes (responsible for skin darkening) from reaching your skin cells. It also prevents oxidative damage from the environment and the sun,” says dermatologist Dr Kiran Lohia.

However, you need to invest in the right vitamin C for results. “The right vitamin C serum is liposomal so that it gets absorbed into the cells and photostabilised, so that the sun doesn’t break it down when it is exposed to air,” says Lohia. “If the serum doesn’t cost much, it’s probably not the right vitamin C,” she adds.

HOW TO USE IT?

Different skin types should go for different versions. “People with dry skin should use vitamin C infused creams, while people with oily skin can go with serums,” says beauty expert Bharti Taneja.

However, one has to be careful applying it. “The ingredient breaks down quickly if it is exposed to light or air. If you are using a vitamin C ampoule, quickly mix it with your moisturising cream and apply. Make it a part of your night time skincare routine so that the ingredient gets plenty of time to rejuvenate your skin,” Taneja says. If you don’t use an ampoule, you can add two drops of lemon juice to a moisturising cream and apply.

MAKE IT PART OF YOUR DIET

Vitamin C has antioxidants that boost immunity, reduce skin inflammation, and flush out toxins. Broccoli, Brussels sprout, cauliflower, bell peppers, spinach, cabbage, leafy greens and tomatoes are rich in Vitamin C. The same is true for citrus fruits such as orange and grapefruit, along with other fruits such as kiwis, mangoes, papayas, strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and cranberries.

Vitamin C is effective as a depigmenting agent, too, as it prevents melanosomes (responsible for skin darkening) from reaching your skin cells. It also prevents oxidative damage from the environment and the sun.

DR KIRAN LOHIA DERMATOLOGIST

The right derivative should be used for penetration into the skin and the right PH... LAscorbic Acid is what one should look out for. DR RAJAT KANDHARI DERMATOLOGIST

PHOTOS: ISTOCK Vitamin C can be consumed either through skin care products or as part of your diet

Vitamin C repairs skin tiessues and aids in the regeneration of skin cells, thus fighting premature ageing