Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that is naturally present in some foods, added to others, and available as a dietary supplement. Vitamin c comes in many forms however L-ascorbic acid is the most active form and also found naturally. Humans, unlike most animals, are unable to synthesize vitamin C hence it is an essential dietary component to consider.
Vitamin C is vital to collagen synthesis. However, as we age, the likelihood of vitamin C deficiency increases. That’s partly due to age-related inflammation but also because ageing liver cells produce fewer of the proteins that help us transport vitamin C around the body.
Also, the absorption of vitamin c from our gut is limited and therefore only a small amount is absorbed orally. Also, a very small amount of vitamin c reaches the skin when taken orally. Applying Vitamin c to the skin can be 20 times more effective than taking it orally and for this reason, topical application is much recommended.
Other factors such as UV radiation, pollution and smoking can further lower vitamin c concentrations in our skin and should always be addressed.
Vitamin c has many benefits to the skin. It acts as an antioxidant, provides additional photoprotection in the presence of sun protection, aids in collagen synthesis and reduces melanogenesis reducing concerns such as pigmentation. It is also an anti-inflammatory and used in treating skin conditions such as acne, rosacea and post-inflammatory pigmentation.
However, vitamin c is a highly unstable molecule and oxidises very quickly when it comes into contact with air. Once it turns brown it is no longer effective. It is therefore very important to purchase a highly stable formulation for it to be effective and cost-effective. Ensure you pick yours carefully.
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