Being an avid athlete, I regularly complete road runs, trail runs as well as mountain biking and I have seen the effects of the elements on my skin. Hyperpigmentation and dehydration are the order of the day, even though I am diligent with my sunscreen. Most of us, especially those exposed to harsh environments (think theatre lights, steam from cooking, sun exposure and cold winter weather) needs a little extra protection against environmental aggressors. These aggressors generate free radicals, which cause a damaging chain of events in the skin that compromise vital cellular components as well as the cell’s DNA (the brain of the cell). Research has shown that sunscreens alone do not provide the adequate protection from environmental damage. Oral vitamin intake also does not entirely do the job since your skin is the last organ to receive the benefits from supplementation.
For that reason, antioxidants are added into skincare products to get the maximum benefit from these vitamins. For a broad range of protection against environmental aggressors it is important to combine a topical antioxidant in conjunction with a daily sunscreen. There are many topical antioxidant ingredients available on the market, however Vitamin C (specifically L-ascorbic Acid) is the hero ingredient.
This amazing antioxidant is an anti-inflammatory nutrient and is known to improve skin tone and texture, hydrate the skin, and reduce signs of ageing. Adding vitamin C to your skin care routine can not only brighten your complexion but also protect the skin against damage caused by sun exposure and harmful free radicals.
Vitamin C is best used during the day as it assists in protecting the skin from sunburn and therefore sun damage. Vitamin C is available in facial moisturizers, serums and even sunscreens however the packaging is very important. When L-ascorbic acid is exposed to water or light, it disintegrates and loses its activity. To ensure that this active ingredient stays stable, always look for packaging that is airtight and preferably in a waterless formulation. A facial serum is more active that a moisturizer, masque, or SPF and therefore skincare specialists generally recommend purchasing Vitamin C in serum form.
Vitamin C, in the form of L-ascorbic acid, is amazing for all skin types and conditions as it is hydrating, brightens, reduces redness, fades hyperpigmentation, promotes collagen production, boosts wound healing, and reduces sun burn and sun damage. Make sure to consult your skincare specialist should your skin be very reactive, inflamed as in having active acne or if you are using oral acne medication or cortico-steroids.
Fight Ageing, Fight Hard!
Erika
Skin Deep SA
Products We love:
Lamelle CE Serum
ZO Vitamin C 10% (current promotion with daily power)
Our Top Picks Nassif MD skincare containing Vitamin C