Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is probably one of the most commonly used vitamins, especially during the cold and flu season. We all know that it is helpful to our immune systems, but why is Vitamin C good for our skin?
Vitamin C’s role in our body is more than an immunity boost. Higher blood levels of Vitamin C are one of the ideal nutrition markers for overall good health. The benefits of Vitamin C include protections from cardiovascular disease, stress, eye disease, cancer, stroke, prenatal issues, and skin wrinkling. Today, I am going to focus on the benefits of Vitamin C to our skin.
The History of Vitamin C Beauty
The use of Vitamin C as an anti-aging, beauty product goes back to ancient times. During the Tang Dynasty (no pun intended) in Tibet, women would rub sea buckthorn on their face and hands. The berries of this plant held a deep-colored oil that is a major source of Vitamin C. Rose hips berries were another often used plant. They contain about 20x the Vitamin C of an orange. Native Americans made a rich Vitamin C paste out of rose petals to moisten and heal their skin.
While the Native Americans and the Tibetans didn’t know the exact science behind these berries and petals, they knew they worked to heal and soften their skin.
The Science of Vitamin C in Beauty
Vitamin C is found in both the dermis and the epidermis but, our bodies do not store it. It must be replenished, especially as we age. Vitamin C has antioxidant properties. These properties play a role in collagen synthesis: the chemical reaction to the ascorbic acid which results in building of collagen. Vitamin C is a required component to produce hydroxyproline and hydroxylysine, both of which are needed to bind the molecules that produce collagen. This, in turn, firms and tones the skin. Collagen deficiency makes the skin dull and lifeless. Collagen rejuvenates the skin from the roots, reducing wrinkles and symptoms of aging. Exposure to UV light and pollutants also decreases the Vitamin C content. We lose Vitamin C as we age, and in order to slow down the aging process, we need to replace it.
This vital nutrient can be supplemented orally and topically. It can be transported to the skin through the bloodstream, meaning, taking an oral supplement will add Vitamin C to the bloodstream and transport it to all tissues and all layers of the skin. When Vitamin C levels in the bloodstream become saturated, or full, it will no longer increase in the blood levels. We cannot overdose on it, but our bodies will expel it. That is where the topical application takes over in anti-aging.
Why You Need Topical Vitamin C
As I said before, people have used topical applications of Vitamin C for centuries. When applied topically, Vitamin C provides a skin-rejuvenating effect by improving collagen production. It also is reported to help reduce skin inflammation and aid in wound healing. Texture improves with the use of topical Vitamin C; skin pigmentation is protected and any small damages to the skin are pampered through Vitamin C. This does not mean it is a good idea to rub lemon or orange across your face and neck. A true balance of hydration and ascorbic acid it needed. Purity is vital.
Frequently Asked Questions about vitamin C for skin care
What does vitamin C do topically?
Harvard Health Publishing has a great article on how vitamin C can help slow early skin aging, prevent sun damage, and improve the appearance of wrinkles, dark spots, and acne.
Can you use topical vitamin C everyday?
Generally, vitamin C is safe for daily use. However, in high concentrations, it can be irritating, so caution should be used for those with highly sensitive skin, perhaps using every other day, or until you find a safe level for your skin.
Can topical vitamin C be absorbed through the skin?
Yes! Vitamin C can be absorbed through the skin, though it depends on the type. Vitamin C that is formulated for skincare is the best to use.
