Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a substance essential for the proper functioning of metabolism. However, since our body does not produce it, it is crucial to supply it to the body through diet. An excellent antioxidant, it is found in many skincare and even hair care products. Here are its main benefits.
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The benefits of Vitamin C for the skin.
Summary
- Benefit #1: Vitamin C helps the skin combat oxidative stress
- Benefit #2: Vitamin C brightens the complexion and combats hyperpigmentation
- Benefit #3: Vitamin C stimulates collagen production
- Benefit #4: Vitamin C reduces skin inflammation
- Sources
Published October 28, 2021,
updated on June 29, 2024,
by
Maylis, Chemical Engineer
—
4 min read
Benefit #1: Vitamin C helps the skin combat oxidative stress.
Active with powerful antioxidant properties, the vitamin C protects the skin from free radicals. These are generated by several factors among which are UVA rays, pollution, cigarette smoke, excessive alcohol consumption, stress... These are molecules that are missing an electron. Highly reactive due to their instability, free radicals tend to react with the healthy molecules of the body, damaging cells and tissues.
This process, known as "oxidative stress," accelerates skin aging and thus the appearance of wrinkles and/or pigmentation spots. Vitamin C neutralizes the action of free radicals by donating an electron to make these molecules stable and less reactive. In this way, it delays skin aging and protects the skin from external aggressions.
Benefit #2: Vitamin C brightens the complexion and combats hyperpigmentation.
Several studies have demonstrated the lightening power of topical application of Vitamin C. Therefore, this active ingredient can be used to give a brightening boost to one's complexion and/or to combat hyperpigmentation, a skin disorder that can occur at any age, manifesting as brown spots on the skin's surface.
The mechanism of action of Vitamin C is based on theinhibition of the amount of melanin produced by the skin's pigment cells. Vitamin C interacts with tyrosinase, an enzyme responsible for converting the amino acid tyrosine into melanin, thereby reducing pigmentation.
Benefit #3: Vitamin C stimulates collagen production.
Collagen is a fibrous protein found in the dermis that provides flexibility and firmness to the skin. However, over the years, its production by the body tends to decrease, leading to skin sagging and the appearance of wrinkles. To counteract this, vitamin C is a true ally because it boosts the synthesis of collagen in the skin and thus slows down the appearance of signs related to skin aging.
Benefit #4: Vitamin C reduces skin inflammation.
Redness and skin inflammation can result from a number of factors, such as excessive sun exposure or hormonal fluctuations. According to a study, vitamin C reduces redness and irritation thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Sources
CHIANG N. & al. Topical vitamin C and the skin: Mechanisms of action and clinical applications. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology (2017).
VISSERS M. C. M. & al. The role of vitamin C in skin health. Nutrients (2017).
TRICAUD C. & al. Vitamin C prevents ultraviolet-induced pigmentation in healthy volunteers: Bayesian meta-analysis results from 31 randomized controlled versus vehicle clinical studies. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology (2019).
VOSS W. & al. A collagen supplement improves skin hydration, elasticity, roughness, and density: Results of a randomized, placebo-controlled, blind study. Nutrients (2019).
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