Vitamin C has held been a longstanding favourite in the skincare industry for a good reason. Praised for its skin-brightening and rejuvenating properties, this ingredient is a familiar addition in many of your favourite skincare products. But have you ever wondered about the ins and outs of how Vitamin C benefits your skin?  

We sat down with our in-house skincare expert, Charlotte Connoley, and our Head of New Product Development, Sandrine Sylva, to address the most frequently asked questions about Vitamin C. Keep reading to learn how incorporating this ingredient into your daily routine can make you glow in more ways than one! 

So, let's delve into the world of Vitamin C... 

Q: Vitamin C is highly popular in many popular skincare products. What are the benefits of using Vitamin C? 

Charlotte: “Using a daily Vitamin C in your morning routine can have huge benefits on the skin. It can:

• Brighten the skin.
• Reduce hyperpigmentation.
• Promote collagen production.
• Protect the skin against free radicals and aggressors (such as pollution).
• Provide UV protection properties.

Our skin is the biggest organ of the body. It is exposed to more pollutants than any other organ so Vitamin C can really help to protect it.”

Q: Many brands claim Vitamin C has incredible benefits to the skin. What is the science behind using Vitamin C in skincare? 

Sandrine: “Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that can help with slowing down ageing, prevent sun damage, improve the appearance of wrinkles, dark spots, pigmentation and even acne. Vitamin C fights against harmful toxins in the atmosphere. When they come in contact with the skin, they can caue serious damadge. Applying a topical Vitamin C serum in your every day routine can not only protect, but can improve the overall health and appearance of the skin. 

Vitamin C is an important component in collagen synthesis. Encouraging collagen to be made by the body can help with the appearance of fine and deep lines. It can also correct hyperpigmentation as it can inhibit melanin production.”

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Q: Due to its potency, is Vitamin C useful for all skin types? 

Charlotte: “Vitamin C is a well known antioxidant used in skincare. It's safe for most skin types as it hydrates, brightens and reduces redness. Most people can use topical Vitamin C for long periods of time without any reactions. More sensitive skin types may find that it reacts with their skin so they may want to phase it in slowly to their routines.” 

Q: I tend to have skin that’s prone to redness, sensitivity and irritation… can I use Vitamin C products if I have sensitive skin? 

Charlotte: “Vitamin C is an ascorbic acid which is the most potent form of Vitamin C which can sometimes make sensitive skin even more irritated. People with sensitive skin need to start slowly and test their skin's reaction. Apply to cleansed skin with clean hands and wait for 30 seconds to see if there is any immediate reaction. Slowly build up application once you are confident that your skin tolerates it. You can also patch test before use - try some behind your ears or along your jaw first.” 

Q: I’ve used the products once and haven’t noticed any visible changes yet. How long do Vitamin C skincare products take to work? 

Charlotte: “Like with any skin care product you need consistency and time to see results. Remember that your skin is renewed every 28 days, so give it at least a month to see if there are results. Within three months you should start to see the effects of using Vitamin C. Skin will look brighter and plumper and pigmentation should look lighter. Remember that Vitamin C is an amazing product that helps support your skin, so I really recommend using this everyday for life, to make sure you keep pigmentation at bay -- and of course enjoy that glow!” 

Q: There are so many Vitamin C products to choose from! What should I look for in a Vitamin C product? 

Sandrine: “A Vitamin C Serum should always be sold in an airtight and opaque packaging to protect the product from light exposure and to stop it from oxidising. When Vitamin C becomes oxidised it loses its potency and may even become harmful to the skin. A higher potency Vitamin C is always going to be more effective than a lower potency.” 

Boost your daily glow with Vitamin C+ Glow Boost Serum.

Q: Vitamin C has improved the look and feel of my skin so much! But is it possible to overuse Vitamin C in my routine? 

Charlotte: “Yes, like any other potent skincare ingredient, listen to your skin. Vitamin C is a potent ascorbic acid and sometimes it can become too much for more sensitive skin types. Ideally you would want to use it every morning to protect the skin against free radicals, (pollution, sun damage, etc) but of course like I say to all my clients, your skin should feel comfortable when using skin care products. If it stings, irritates or strips then ease back from using it.” 

 
Q: I’m new to this ingredient… when should I use Vitamin C in my skincare routine? 

Charlotte “Vitamin C is a versatile ingredient that can be seamlessly integrated into your skincare routine, whether it's day or night, depending on the specific product and its usage guidelines. Using a Vitamin C serum in the morning can give you a luminous glow and refresh your complexion for the day ahead. On the other hand, incorporating a Vitamin C night cream before bedtime allows the formulation to work its wonders while you sleep, as your skin is most receptive to skincare products during its restorative phase at night. Regardless of the products you choose, rest assured that Vitamin C can be seamlessly included in various facets of your skincare regimen, delivering noticeable results as long as you adhere to the individual 'How To Use' instructions.” 

Treat your skin to an overnight glow boost with the Vitamin C+ Sleep & Reveal Night Cream.

Q: I often get pimples and have generally oily skin. Is Vitamin C a good for blemish prone skin? 

Charlotte: “Yes, Vitamin C can be beneficial for blemish-prone skin. Vitamin C has antioxidant properties that can help reduce inflammation and redness associated with blemishes. It also aids in fading post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or dark spots left behind by blemishes.

Additionally, Vitamin C supports collagen production, which can contribute to healthier and more resilient skin. However, it's essential to use Vitamin C in conjunction with other blemish-fighting ingredients and a suitable skincare routine tailored to your specific skin needs. Consulting with a dermatologist or skincare professional can help you determine the best approach for addressing blemish-prone skin.” 
 

Q: I have a morning and night-time skincare regimen, but when should I use the Vitamin C Cleansing Oil in my routine?

Charlotte: “The Vitamin C Cleansing Oil can double up as a make-up remover, be used in the evening as a first step of your double cleanse in the evening or serve as a self-care treat in the morning if you want to give your skin a boost of freshness when you wake up. 
Our Cleansing Oil is formulated with a blend of 6 oils, including passionflower and cucumber oil, which can help to break down makeup, SPF, and impurities on your skin. Follow it up with a water-based cleanser to complete the cleansing process. It’s essential to follow the specific instructions provided on the product you choose, as usage may vary between different brands and formulations.” 

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So, still wondering why you should consider adding Vitamin C to your skincare routine? According to our experts, it's because Vitamin C is a skincare superstar. It's not just a passing trend; it's a reliable ally for your skin. 
Vitamin C helps brighten your complexion, protect against environmental damage, and can be used both in the morning and at night. As Charlotte advises, Vitamin C in the morning guards your skin against daily stressors. Sandrine suggests that using it in a night cream aids in overnight skin renewal. 
In summary, Vitamin C is a versatile and effective addition to your skincare routine. Trust the experts and enjoy the benefits of healthier, glowing skin. 

Explore our full Vitamin C+ Brighten range here.

Have some more Vitamin C questions? We want to hear from you! 
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