Vitamin C Serum for skin: A complete guide

Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin found in citrus and other fruits and vegetables. Our bodies don’t produce this essential nutrient on our own. In the world of skincare, Vitamin C is the most potent antioxidant known. It has a host of benefits for the skin, which is why it may be the most popular skincare ingredient today.


If you are looking to add a Vitamin C serum into your skincare routine, read on as we give you everything you need to know about this powerhouse ingredient!


Benefits of a Vitamin C Serum


Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that protects your skin from environmental aggressors and UV rays. Think pollution, cigarette smoke, chemicals, and ultra-processed foods - things that you encounter every day that may be causing oxidative stress.


You may want to consider adding a Vitamin C serum to your skincare routine if you have the following concerns: fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, and a dull and lifeless complexion. 


But even if you don’t, Vitamin C will still be a great addition to your skincare regimen to protect your skin from the damage that may be brought on by sun exposure and free radicals. Vitamin C also promotes collagen production and protects it from deterioration.


Vitamin C is an ultra-popular ingredient and for good reasons! It is a powerful workhorse that truly delivers and helps you achieve your skincare goals.


What to look for in a Vitamin C Serum


Vitamin C is best used as a serum as serums are absorbed faster and penetrate deeper into the skin delivering visible results faster. Serums must be applied to your skin after cleansing and before moisturizers.


When looking for a serum to use, look for one with L-ascorbic Acid as this is the pure form of Vitamin C. Vitamin C comes in other forms but these Vitamin C derivatives would come mixed with other ingredients and only release a fraction of the pure form onto the skin upon contact. L-ascorbic Acid is also the most bio-active form of the vitamin. 


Opt for a serum with a concentration of 10%-20% L-ascorbic acid. When starting out, use one with a 10% Vitamin C content and increase up to 20% as tolerated. Don’t go over 20% though as anything above it may cause irritation without increasing the benefits you get from it. 


Tocopherol (Vitamin E) stabilizes Vitamin C and Ferulic Acid stabilizes both so it is best to look for a Vitamin C serum that has both of these ingredients. These three together will make a powerful solution that works really well together. Having Tocopherol (Vitamin E) and Ferulic Acid maximizes the benefits you get from applying a Vitamin C serum as they boost the latter's ability to fight free radicals and stimulate collagen production.


Lastly, look for a product that is packed in an airtight dark or tinted glass bottle as being exposed to air, heat, and light can cause Vitamin C to deteriorate. Look for a place that’s both cool and dark to store your Vitamin C serum. Some even suggest refrigerating the product to prolong its shelf life. Keep in mind that most products will come in a yellow color and signal that the product is expired if it turns brown. So if it does, it’s time to get yourself a fresh bottle as that bottle has oxidized and will no longer work.


Vitamin C serums we love and recommend


C-Lester Topical Vitamin C10 Serum

Formulated with 10% L-Ascorbic Acid Vitamin C, the C-Lester Topical Vitamin C10 Serum protects your skin from damage caused by free radicals. It also evens your skin tone, prevents future discoloration, and fights premature aging. And with Hyaluronic Acid, it hydrates your skin for a radiant glow.


C-Lester Topical Vitamin C20 Serum


The C-Lester Topical Vitamin C20 Serum comes with 20% of L-ascorbic acid. It is also formulated with red algae extract, aloe vera extract, and other botanical ingredients. It powerfully protects the skin from highly chemically reactive free radicals. The C-Lester Topical Vitamin C20 Serum also significantly improves the common signs of aging, photo damage, fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of firmness, while reducing dark spots and brightening the skin's complexion. 


Testimonial

“I absolutely love Dermaesthetics’ products. I started with the C-Lester Topical Vitamin C10 Serum when I first tried using a Vitamin C serum. It worked great without irritating my skin. Then I started using the C-Lester Topical Vitamin C20 Serum and I am in love with this product. My skin looks healthier now and it feels smoother and looks brighter!” - Erin, 23

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