We’re now three weeks into winter (seriously, why is this year going so fast?!) and we’re all frantically upping our vitamin C intake in order to keep our immune systems in check (because no one has time to get sick).
But did you know that the benefits of vitamin C go well beyond immunity? When used as a topical solution, it can help boost the production of collagen—and if it hasn’t already made its way into your skincare routine, you’re going to want to listen up.
“Vitamin C is a renowned powerhouse,” says Ellie Douglas, Dermalogica Training Specialist. “It’s been proven to brighten, firm and protect the skin against premature ageing. These three key benefits mean vitamin C is great for tackling lines and wrinkles. Being a potent skin brightener, it also helps even skin tone and fade scarring from breakouts.”
Ellie adds: “Our skin is under daily assault from our lifestyle and environment. “Diet, high stress levels, the amount of sleep we get, exposure to UV rays and pollution lead to the formation of free radicals. This means serious damage for our skin cells which over time plays out as fine lines, wrinkles and brown patches on our skin.”
“Vitamin C is one of the most potent antioxidants out there which essentially means it can neutralise free radicals, keeping our skin young and radiant.”
That being said, vitamin C is also very unstable, which means the compound can easily be broken down by exposure to air, heat and light. This is something that skin experts are often critical of and also something you should keep in mind when selecting the right vitamin C product for you. Look out for aspects such as concentration and other ingredients as well as how the product is packaged to ensure you’re getting the real deal.
Dabbled in the idea of vitamin C for your skin but don’t know where to start? Have a scroll through to see what’s landed on our beauty desk!
Biologi Eye Serum Rejuvination
Derived from 100% plant stem cells, Byron Bay-based skincare label, Biologi, has developed a unique extraction method which ensures that the vitamin C remains stable and active throughout the entire process. It contains only one single ingredient (Kakadu Plum) and is totally organic, vegan and cruelty-free. You can also use it all over your face—not just under your eyes.
Shop here.
Skinstitut Vitamin C 100%
Containing 100% L-ascorbic acid (scientific name for vitamin C), what we love about this powder is that you can mix it into your regular moisturiser for an added boost of nourishment.
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Obagi Professional-C Serum
Simply apply 5-7 drops to clean face, neck and chest as part of your normal morning or evening routine for a brighter complexion.
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Dermalogica BioLumin-C Serum
This high-performance serum works to brighten, firm and dramatically reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles thanks to its combination of potent vitamin C complex, lactic acid, sophora japonica flower extract and chia seed oil.
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Andalou Naturals Turmeric + C Enlighten Serum
A great option if you’re looking for a budget buy, the enlighten serum by Andalou Naturals boasts a fruit stem cell complex along with turmeric which all work to target different skin concerns and fight free radicals.
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MARIO BADESCU Vitamin C Serum
This serum contains 7.5% ascorbic acid (another name for vitamin C) to help reduce discolouration and pigmentation. It’s also formulated with hyaluronic acid for a good dose of hydration.
The Ordinary Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate Solution
Here it is again, the same brand that created the face serum Kim Kardashian swears by! With an impressive portfolio of vitamin C products, this particular one boasts a high potency and low price tag.
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Peter Thomas Roth Potent-C Power Serum
Designed for every skin type, this product is free from parabens, sulfates and phthalates (ie. all the bad stuff) and works as an effective anti-ageing and brightening treatment. For best results, recommended use is twice daily.
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Murad Rapid Resurfacing Peel
Formulated with a powerful blend of glycolic acid and vitamin C, this extra-strength peel works to enhance radiance and detoxify the skin. Swipe a towelette over clean face, neck and chest, leave to absorb, follow with a moisturiser and you’re good to go.
Shop here.
