Which Vitamin C Should I Use in My Skincare?
Vitamin C has long been hailed as a skincare superhero, celebrated for its ability to brighten, protect, and rejuvenate the...
Vitamin C has long been hailed as a skincare superhero, celebrated for its ability to brighten, protect, and rejuvenate the skin. However, not all vitamin C is created equal. There are many different types of Vitamin C used in skincare, each with its own unique benefits and properties - whether it be an isolate or a vitamin C rich botanical oil. To see which one might be best for you, let's dive into the world of Vitamin C and uncover the differences between these popular formulations.
Common Forms of Vitamin C Used in Skincare
- L-Ascorbic Acid: Considered the gold standard of vitamin C in skincare for it's potency. It's highly effective at brightening the skin, reducing hyperpigmentation, and stimulating collagen production. But where effectiveness reigns it may be irritating for very sensitive skin. We recommend just patch-testing it first or look for products that combine calming ingredients like, Colloidal Oatmeal, as in the The Nue Co Topical C.
- Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (THD): This lipid-soluble form of vitamin C is highly stable and easily penetrates the skin, making it effective at delivering antioxidant protection deep within the epidermis. Prized for its ability to brighten the skin, reduce inflammation, and promote collagen production. It's considered suitable for all skin types.
- Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate: A clinically proven, stable, oil-soluble vitamin C derivative. Some studies demonstrate that Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate will remain in the skin cells forty to eighty times longer than ascorbic acid and will have as much as four times the effect.
- Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (SAP): A stable form of vitamin C that can be less irritating for sensitive skin. It's also effective at brightening the skin, reducing inflammation, and promoting collagen synthesis. Because of its stability, SAP is commonly used in a wide range of skincare products, including serums, moisturisers, and creams.
When choosing a Vitamin C skincare product, it's essential to consider the type of Vitamin C used and its concentration. While L-Ascorbic Acid is the most potent form, it may not be suitable for all skin types due to its potential for irritation. Other forms of Vitamin C, such as SAP & THD offer gentler alternatives without compromising on efficacy.
Natural Forms Of Vitamin C Used in Skincare
Incorporating botanical and natural forms of Vitamin C into your skincare routine allows you to harness the power of nature to achieve radiant, healthy-looking skin. Whether you opt for a serum, moisturiser, or facial oil, these plant-based ingredients offer a gentle yet effective way to brighten, protect, and rejuvenate your complexion. These are some of our favourite ingredients to look for on the labels:
- Acerola Cherry: Bursting with Vitamin C, Acerola Cherry extract is derived from the fruit of the Acerola tree. This potent antioxidant helps brighten the skin, reduce the appearance of dark spots, and protect against environmental stressors. Acerola Cherry extract is prized for its ability to promote collagen synthesis, resulting in firmer, more youthful-looking skin.
- Kakadu Plum: Native to Australia, Kakadu Plum boasts one of the highest concentrations of Vitamin C of any fruit in the world. This potent antioxidant helps defend the skin against free radical damage, reduce inflammation, and promote collagen production. Kakadu Plum extract is prized for its ability to brighten the complexion, fade dark spots, and improve overall skin texture.
- Find It In: The Rms Beauty Skincare range + MV Skintherapy Native Power Serum + Odacite C-Glow Hydra-Firm Body Oil.
- Rosehip Seed Oil: Extracted from the seeds of the rosehip fruit, rosehip seed oil is rich in vitamin C, as well as essential fatty acids and antioxidants. This nourishing oil helps hydrate the skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improve elasticity. Rosehip Seed Oil is particularly beneficial for dry or mature skin types, helping to restore radiance and suppleness.
- Sea Buckthorn Berry: A potent source of Vitamin C, as well as vitamins A, E, and beta-carotene. This bright orange berry helps protect the skin against environmental damage, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. Prized for its ability to nourish and rejuvenate the skin, leaving it glowing with health and vitality.
Incorporating botanical and natural forms of Vitamin C into your skincare routine allows you to harness the power of nature to achieve healthy-looking skin. Whether you opt for a serum, moisturiser, or facial oil, these plant-based ingredients offer a gentle yet effective way to brighten, protect, and rejuvenate your complexion.
Which Vitamin C Shall I Use In My Skincare?
Ultimately, the best type of Vitamin C for your skin will depend on your individual concerns, skin type, and sensitivity. Experimenting with different formulations can help you find the perfect Vitamin C product to incorporate into your skincare routine, helping you achieve a brighter, healthier complexion.