Skin Care Benefits of Vitamin C
March 23, 2021 2022-12-24 19:43Skin Care Benefits of Vitamin C
Vitamin C has made a name for itself as a powerful and important antioxidant, essential for optimum skin health. L-ascorbic acid is one of the most common forms of Vitamin C. Research shows that L-ascorbic acid, can do a number of things like repair free radical damage, promote collagen production, reduce inflammation, and strengthen skin and hair.
Repair Free Radical Damage
Free radicals are unstable cells, meaning they are short an electron caused by external factors like oxidation, pollution, cigarette smoke, and various health conditions. While Vitamin E is the primary defender against oxidation, Vitamin C is particularly powerful against the free radicals caused by pollution. When Vitamin C is added to the skin it neutralizes free radicals by donating one of its electrons to an unstable free radical, making it whole and happy. Contrary to how free radicals are formed, antioxidants like Vitamin C remain stable, even with the loss of their donated electron.
Promote Collagen Production
Collagen is the key to firm, soft, and supple skin. Without it our skin loses its elasticity, which in turn leads to wrinkles and fine lines. Our bodies naturally create it, but as we age our bodies break down the collagen and our ability to produce more diminishes. Luckily, when topically applied, Vitamin C has been proven to stimulate the synthesis of collagen.
Reduce Inflamation
Research shows that Vitamin C protects against harmful substances that contribute to disease. Because of this, studies suggest that it has some anti-inflammatory benefits.
Strengthen Skin & Hair
While it is promoting collagen production, Vitamin C is also working to strengthen blood vessels underneath the skin. It also plays a big role in absorbing iron, which helps to keep hair healthy and strong.
Your body naturally produces some antioxidants, but Vitamin C is not one of them. So, it is important that you introduce the nutrient to your body through diet (think broccoli, citrus fruit, strawberries, and tomatoes) and skin care every day. Why every day? Vitamin C is not stored in the body. It is water-soluble and the excess is expelled with urine.