Unaesthetic, many different factors can play a role in the formation of dull and tired skin, ranging from diet to lifestyle and daily skin habits. Whatever the cause, using a combination of active ingredients seems to help the skin regain its glow, including vitamin C which is often cited for its ability to combat dull complexions. In this article, we will take a closer look at whether ascorbic acid really constitutes a means.
Vitamin C, a radiance-boosting ingredient for dull complexions?
Published on October 28, 2021, updated on February 10, 2026, by Maylis, Chemical Engineer — 3 min of reading
Themes:
Vitamin C to restore radiance to dull skin?
Characterized by a lack of radiance and a grayish tone, there are many possible causes for dull skin. One of the most common causes of dull skin appearance is the impact of lifestyle factors such as air pollution, UV rays from the sun, tobacco smoke or even lack of sleep, hindering the skin's ability to regenerate. Indeed, these environmental elements can generate free radicals, characterized by the presence of unpaired electrons, and increase oxidative stress in skin cells, which in turn affects skin texture and the way it reflects light evenly.
Although they may be essential to certain physiological processes (cell signaling, immune defense, etc.), the overproduction of these highly reactive and unstable molecules can disrupt the delicate balance between pro-oxidants and antioxidants, thus causing oxidative stress. This can lead to dysfunction of skin cells.
Besides opting for exfoliating and moisturizing care, the incorporation of antioxidant care into a daily routine plays a key role in neutralizing free radicals and mitigating oxidative stress, and could thus help achieve a more radiant complexion. Thus, to fight against environmental damage caused by free radicals associated with pollution that dull the complexion, the use of topical antioxidant daily based on vitamin C could be a solution. It neutralizes oxidative stress through a process of electron transfer and/or donation.
4 minutes to understand your skin. Our dermatological diagnostic guides you toward the ideal skincare for your specific needs. Simple, quick, personalized.
WRINKLES/SKIN DENSITY
Sources
CHIANG N. Y. Z. & al. Topical vitamin C and the skin: Mechanisms of action and clinical applications. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology (2017).
BELLOTTI P. & al. Reflectance confocal microscopy and image analysis to evaluate the efficacy of a topical facial serum with 20% vitamin C in improving signs of aging. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (2018).
