What’s the big deal?
Ask any skin expert or dermatologist (trust me, I’ve asked a helluva lot), and they’ll tell you the three things you can do for your skin that make the biggest positive difference are retinol, SPF and vitamin C. So, by now we (should) all know about the importance of using SPF – and if you’re not already on the retinol bandwagon, take a look at our guide right here – but vitamin C may be one that you’ve dabbled in but haven’t made part of your everyday routine. Well, I’m here to tell you it’s time to get serious about the big C because it has a lot to offer and an abundance of benefits for your skin.
Why should I use it?
So, why’s it so great, you ask? Well, it’s a powerful antioxidant that helps the body to protect itself from something called ‘free radical damage’ – this is a beauty buzzword for the negative effects our environment can have on our skin (think: pollution, UV rays, stress etc). As well as preventing signs of skin damage, vitamin C treats dullness, pigmentation and uneven skin tone by brightening the complexion and smoothing fine lines by boosting hyaluronic acid and collagen production in the skin. In essence: it protects and treats as well as giving serious glow. See, told you it was a good ’un.
How do I use it?
The beauty of vitamin C is that it plays well with others and is often formulated alongside hydrating, soothing ingredients, or even exfoliating acids, to deliver multiple benefits. You can choose between a range of forms and textures, depending on your personal preference or skin concerns. The most common is a serum, which delivers a targeted treatment directly into the deeper layers of the skin, but vitamin C is also found in richer face oils (and is particularly good for dry skin), eye creams or one-off treatments and face masks. In terms of when to apply, it’s best to use a serum on freshly cleansed skin and leave to absorb for a minute or two (to work its magic) before following with a hydrating serum, oil or moisturiser. It can be used morning and night, but thanks to its brilliant protective powers, it’s especially favoured in the morning to tackle whatever the day throws at you.