The Magic of Vitamin C

Why You Need Vitamin C in Your Skincare Routine

You’ve likely noticed Vitamin C in skincare products, and for good reason! It’s a beloved, versatile ingredient that’s not only popular but incredibly effective. Whether you prefer the classic ascorbic acid or one of its many derivatives, there’s a form of Vitamin C that fits into any skincare routine.

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects the skin from the harmful effects of free radicals. It also brightens dark spots and evens skin tone. But that’s not all — it plays a crucial role in collagen synthesis, making it an essential "youth vitamin."

If you’re looking to fight premature aging and restore a radiant, youthful glow to your complexion, incorporating Vitamin C into your daily routine is a must. Read on to discover how this powerhouse ingredient works!

How Does Vitamin C Benefit Your Skin?

Vitamin C is known for its antioxidant properties, which help slow the skin’s aging process by neutralizing free radicals that damage skin cells. It also offers protection against UV radiation, reducing redness caused by sun exposure — a perfect complement to your high-SPF sunscreen.

In addition, Vitamin C inhibits the enzyme tyrosinase, responsible for producing pigment and causing stubborn dark spots. This makes it an excellent choice for preventing hyperpigmentation. With its ability to even out skin tone and reduce redness, Vitamin C gives your skin a brighter, healthier, and more youthful appearance.

How to Incorporate Vitamin C Into Your Routine

When adding Vitamin C to your skincare regimen, consider the concentration (start with lower levels), the form of Vitamin C, and the type of product. Those with sensitive skin may want to opt for products with lower concentrations and more stable forms, or use Vitamin C every other day while combining it with hydrating or regenerating products.

For morning use, always pair Vitamin C with sunscreen for optimal sun protection. In the evening, you have two options: Apply a Vitamin C serum followed by a nourishing cream, or use a Vitamin C-infused moisturizer after cleansing your skin.

What to Avoid Pairing with Vitamin C

There are a few common skincare combinations to avoid when using Vitamin C to prevent irritation:

Vitamin C and Retinoids: Combining these can neutralize the benefits of both ingredients, and may irritate sensitive skin. The solution? Use Vitamin C in the morning and retinoids in the evening.

Vitamin C and AHA/BHA Acids: Both ingredients can be irritating when used together. Instead, try using them at different times of the day or on separate days. As always, be cautious and observe how your skin responds.

Vitamin C and Niacinamide: Using Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) with niacinamide can reduce the effectiveness of both ingredients and may cause irritation. However, combining niacinamide with a stable form of Vitamin C can still provide excellent antioxidant benefits.

Types of Vitamin C in Skincare

1. L-Ascorbic Acid – INCI: Ascorbic Acid
The purest and most potent form of Vitamin C. However, it’s unstable and can degrade when exposed to light, air, or improper pH levels. Best for oily skin or those with hyperpigmentation.

Advantages:

• Highly effective.

• Quick results in brightening dull skin.

Disadvantages:

• Can cause irritation, especially for sensitive skin due to its acidic nature.

2. Ascorbyl Glucoside – INCI: Ascorbyl Glucoside
A stable, milder derivative of Vitamin C that penetrates deeper into the skin.

Advantages:

• Milder and more stable than L-Ascorbic Acid.

• Better penetration into deeper skin layers.

Disadvantages:

• Can still cause mild irritation.

3. Ascorbyl Palmitate – INCI: Ascorbyl Palmitate
This fat-soluble form is more stable and less irritating but offers less penetration into the skin.

Advantages:

• Better stability than pure Vitamin C.

• Mild on the skin.

Disadvantages:

• Limited absorption into the skin.

4. Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate – INCI: Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (MAP)
Gentler than pure Vitamin C, though it requires higher concentrations for effectiveness.

Advantages:

• Very gentle on the skin.

• Effectively brightens hyperpigmentation.

Disadvantages:

• Poor penetration and weaker antioxidant effects.

5. Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate – INCI: Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (SAP)
Shares properties with MAP and has strong antibacterial benefits, making it ideal for acne-prone skin.

Advantages:

• Mild and water-soluble.

• Excellent for acne-prone skin.

Disadvantages:

• Limited skin penetration.

6. Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate – INCI: Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate ( You can find it in our Tetra C+E Face Serum)
It is one of the most effective and versatile Vitamin C derivatives, known for its deep absorption and powerful antioxidant protection. This oil-soluble form penetrates the skin’s lipid layers, combating free radicals and environmental stressors like pollution and UV radiation.

It stimulates collagen production, improving skin elasticity and reducing fine lines and wrinkles. Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate also brightens the complexion, evens out skin tone, and fades hyperpigmentation, making it ideal for those seeking a more youthful, radiant appearance. Its gentle nature makes it suitable for delicate skin, while its ability to inhibit melanogenesis makes it highly effective at addressing dark spots. Though one of the most expensive forms of Vitamin C, its exceptional stability and skin tolerance make it a valuable addition to luxury skincare routines.

Origin : Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate is synthesized from ascorbic acid ( natural ingredient) and isopalmitic acid (naturally occurring fatty acid) through an esterification process. During esterification, the hydroxyl group of ascorbic acid reacts with the carboxylic acid group of isopalmitic acid, forming a stable ester bond.

Advantages:

• High efficacy even at low concentration.

• Excellent penetration and stability.

Disadvantages:

• Expensive and slower antioxidant effects compared to L-Ascorbic Acid.

7. 3-O Ethyl Ascorbic Acid – INCI: 3-O Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
A highly stable, versatile form that works in both water and oil-based formulations, ideal for sensitive skin.

Advantages:

• High stability and excellent skin penetration.

• Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

Disadvantages:

• Slower action compared to pure Vitamin C.

The Vitamin of Youth

Vitamin C remains one of the most revered ingredients in skincare, and for good reason. Its ability to revitalize skin, brighten complexion, and protect against environmental stressors makes it an essential part of any anti-aging routine. With its many forms, there’s a Vitamin C option for every skin type and concern. Find the one that best suits your needs, and enjoy the benefits of youthful, glowing skin.