The magic vitamin that’ll
AT THIS time of year getting enough vitamin C in your diet is essential for good health and boosting the immune system to help fight winter colds and flu.
However, this superhero vitamin should also be an important part of your skincare regime.
Unfortunately little of the vitamin C that comes from your diet makes it to the skin so it’s important to use it topically too.
A powerful antioxidant, when applied to the skin it tackles a whole range of problems from dullness and inflammation to sun damage and pigmentation marks. It also plays a vital role in protecting the complexion from the damaging effects of pollution as well as stimulating collagen production.
HOW TO USE IT
While you can apply vitamin C-rich fruit such as oranges directly to the skin, it is easier and more effective to use a specially designed product.
It is best to use vitamin C products as part of your morning skincare regime as this maximises its UV, stress and free radical-fighting benefits.
Avoid mixing vitamin C with ingredients such as glycolic acid, salicylic acid or retinol as this may cause irritation. Save these ingredients for your evening routine. If you are using a vitamin C serum, match it with a vitamin C moisturiser from the same range or use a moisturiser containing hyaluronic acid or vitamin E.
Vitamin C loses its potency when exposed to light or air so when choosing a product, opt for one in air-tight packaging such as a pump applicator. Store it away from direct sunlight and heat.
Look for products that contain between three and 10 per cent vitamin C. It’s possible to go as high as 20 per cent but you would need to speak to a dermatologist or skin expert to ensure it is suitable for your skin. The higher the concentration, the quicker the results. However, some skin types may find stronger products