Vitamin C, also referred to as ascorbic acid, is a powerful antioxidant that has numerous health and skin benefits. This water-soluble vitamin is essential for tissue development and repair. It also serves as an antioxidant, shielding the body from the damage that free radicals can cause. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause cell damage and accelerate ageing, resulting in fine lines, wrinkles, and a dull complexion. But what is the best way to add vitamin C into your routine? Whether you incorporate vitamin C into your diet or apply it topically, it can do wonders for your skin. So, let’s delve into the benefits of this potent antioxidant.
What are the benefits of incorporating vitamin C into your diet?
Vitamin C is an essential vitamin found in many fruits and vegetables that helps you achieve a lit-from-within complexion. I recommend incorporating food items like oranges, strawberries, kiwi fruit, bell peppers, broccoli, kale, and spinach into your diet to get your daily dose of vitamin C. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), a 100-gram serving of spinach contains 28.1 milligrams of vitamin C, 34 per cent of the daily recommendation. But what are the benefits of adding vitamin C to your diet?
- Boosts immunity
One of the most popular benefits of vitamin C is its ability to strengthen your immune system. It stimulates the production of white blood cells, which are crucial for battling infections and diseases.
- Combats free radicals
Free radical damage is one of the leading causes of premature ageing. Eating vitamin C-rich foods can boost your skin health as this potent antioxidant fights free radicals and gives you a youthful glow.
- Boosts collagen production
Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis, a protein that is crucial for maintaining the health of your skin, hair, and nails. It is also vital for wound healing as well as overall skin health.
What are the benefits of topical application of vitamin C?
If you want a healthy and radiant complexion, vitamin C is a godsend. Here are some of the top vitamin C benefits for skin that make this potent ingredient a mainstay in any thoughtful skincare routine:
- Brightens your complexion
Melanin overproduction in specific areas of the skin leads to hyperpigmentation or uneven skin tone. One of the top vitamin C benefits for the skin is that it can effectively lighten hyperpigmentation by inhibiting melanin production. This powerful antioxidant gives you a clear and radiant complexion by suppressing Tyrosinase activity, which in turn prevents the production of melanin.
- Reverses sun damage
Long-term sun exposure can result in rosacea, rough skin, sunspots, flakiness, and other skin issues. When applied to the skin, vitamin C acts as a barrier against environmental damage, such as UV radiation and pollution, which may contribute to premature ageing. According to one study, after using a topical vitamin C treatment for three months, people with mild to moderately photodamaged skin noticed a significant improvement in their skin’s appearance, including fine lines, roughness, and tone.
- Boosts hydration levels
Vitamin C can help you achieve a plump and healthy complexion by hydrating your skin. Without enough moisture, the epidermis begins to dry out, resulting in itchiness, scaliness, and early ageing. Vitamin C aids in the retention of water in the skin, keeping it smooth and plump. It also prevents it from being too greasy or dry.
To reap the maximum benefits of vitamin C, I recommend incorporating both dietary and topical sources of vitamin C into your routine. If you want to learn more about the benefits of vitamin C, schedule a consultation with me here.