Vitamin C serums are powerful products, which if used correctly can transform your skin from within. While it is popularly known and loved for its glow inducing, hydrating, and plumping benefits; it can also be a gamechanger when it comes to preventing fine lines, reducing wrinkles, fighting blemishes, brightening, and reducing hyperpigmentation leading to an even skin tone and much more. It is also a great antioxidant that stimulates collagen production, making it a dependable anti-aging product. It also safeguards your skin against damaging effects of pollution and other free radicals. While Vitamin C serums most often than not suit all skin types, doing a patch test is a great starting point if you are exploring a new formulation. Reverzo (by Glenmark Pharmaceuticals) – an emerging science -backed skincare brand, shares some Do’s and Don’ts that can help you get started with Vit C.
Best Serum To Use In Winter:
St. Botanica Vitamin C 20%, Vitamin E & Hyaluronic Acid Professional Facial Serum. The St. Botanica Vitamin C 20%, Vitamin E & Hyaluronic Acid Professional Facial Serum is a potent serum that helps you hydrate and moisturise your skin.
The DO’s:
1) Ideally Vit C Serums should be a part of both your AM and PM skin care routine. You should start with a cleanser (based on your skin type and exposure to free radicals) and toner then apply your Vit C, and SPF in the daytime. At night, a milder cleanser and toner should precede your Vit C application. Serums with complementary actives are a blessing. Reverzo’s vitamin c serum is formulated with Hyaluronic Acid (1 percent) that retains and gives moisture to your skin, leaving it supple. It also has Ferulic Acid (0.5 percent) which is a powerful antioxidant that neutralizes damage from ageing, pollution, and UV rays.
2) It is advisable to keep your Vit C serums in cool dark places and use ones that come in darker bottles as opposed to clear bottles.
3) Ensure you use the product within 3 months of opening or as specified on the label. Also limit exposure to air and keep bottles tightly closed.
4) Pick out a product that is dermatologically tested and always read the label for ingredients.
5) Amongst the most effective when it comes to boosting collagen synthesis, Ethyl ascorbic acid should be a preferred derivative when choosing a Vit C serum.
The DON’Ts:
1) Don’t combine your Vit C Serum with Retinol. Using your Vit C alongside AHA, BHA & Niacinamide can lead to extreme dryness, skin irritation & flaking.
2) Don’t use the serum if it is decolorized. Your Vit C serum should be clear, although extended exposure to air can oxidize it. And thus, the oxidized variant should not be used.
3) Don’t make your own serum at home. Crude homes produced vit C serums can do more harm to your skin. Invest time in researching the most scientifically backed products and choose your daily skincare wisely.
4) While applying the Serum directly on your face ensure that the nozzle or spray is a few centimeters away from your skin to avoid contamination of the bottle’s content. Alternatively, you can also put a few drops on your palm or fingers and then apply on your face.
Skin problems like dryness are a common condition in winter. Vitamin C is excellent for the skin, as it helps in reducing dryness and wrinkles, keeping the skin moist, and slows down the ageing process. Vitamin C (especially L-ascorbic acid) is notoriously unstable—it loses potency when it’s exposed to air, light, and water—which is why you want to apply it on clean, dry skin right after washing. You’ll also want to let it dry completely, as piling on products right after could potentially deactivate the vitamin C. Almond oil is extremely beneficial for the skin as it provides the appropriate moisture and maintain the natural glow. You can massage your face with almond oil and leave it overnight for the best results. Use it on a daily basis to get more radiant and glowing skin. Studies show that consuming more vitamin C can increase your blood antioxidant levels by up to 30%. This helps the body’s natural defenses fight inflammation ( 4 , 5). Vitamin C is a strong antioxidant that can boost your blood antioxidant levels. This may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease.