Vitamin C has always been embraced for its ability to brighten skin, fight signs of ageing, and promote skin health. However, there is one pitfall of using Vitamin C, especially in products like serums and moisturisers that have to be left on the skin for longer periods. When Vitamin C comes in contact with air, light, or heat, it starts breaking down. This is called oxidation and can be harmful to the skin.
As per a study published by the Indian Association of Dermatologists Venereologists and Leprologists, oxidised Vitamin C causes adverse reactions such as yellowish discolouration of the skin and discolouration of hair.
Role of Vitamin C in Skincare
Vitamin C is revered as a potent antioxidant that helps protect the skin against free radicals and environmental stressors, which often lead to fine lines, wrinkles, dull skin, uneven complexion, increase in dark spots, and sagging skin.
Vitamin C also plays a pivotal role in collagen synthesis, promoting a more youthful complexion, reducing pigmentation, and enhancing skin's natural radiance.
Also Read: How Often Should You Apply Vitamin C On The Face? Know Here
Impact of Oxidised Vitamin C
Oxidation causes the molecular structure of Vitamin C to break down. This process often renders cosmetic products containing Vitamin C to project the following ill effects:
Reduced Efficacy
Oxidised vitamin C loses its potency and effectiveness in addressing skincare concerns. This can lead to disappointment when users don't experience the expected improvements in skin texture, tone, and appearance, after using cosmetic products containing Vitamin C.
Skin Sensitivity
Oxidised vitamin C can become more acidic, leading to potential skin irritation, redness, and discomfort. Individuals with sensitive skin are particularly vulnerable to these adverse effects.
Also Read: Natural Skin Care Tips For Flawless Skin: How To Make Vitamin C Serum At Home?
Potential Harm
In some cases, using oxidised vitamin C can introduce harmful compounds into the skin, causing further damage and inflammation. This contradicts the original intention of using vitamin C for its protective and rejuvenating properties.
Tips to Prevent Oxidation Of Vitamin C
The purpose of informing you about the pitfalls of using Vitamin C for skin care is not to turn you away from its benefits. Vitamin C has endless benefits for the skin, along with its immunity-boosting properties when consumed in your diet. If you practice the following precautions, you can enjoy the gift of Vitamin C without a doubt:
- Opt for Air-Tight Packaging: Products packaged in air-tight containers or opaque bottles help shield vitamin C from air and light exposure, preserving its integrity.
- Store Properly: Keep vitamin C products in a cool, dark place to minimise exposure to heat and light to prevent oxidation.
- Check for Expiry Dates: Always check the expiry date on the product to ensure you're using fresh vitamin C formulations.
- Choose Quality Products: Prioritise high-quality, stable formulations containing Vitamin C. Look for products that contain ascorbyl glucoside, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, or tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate. These components are less prone to oxidation and provide similar benefits to pure Vitamin C.
Vitamin C has undoubtedly earned its place as a skincare superhero, but the risk of using oxidised formulations cannot be ignored. To fully enjoy the benefits of vitamin C for your skin, choose wisely and invest in products that prioritise stability and freshness. By understanding the ill effects of using oxidised vitamin C, you can make informed decisions that lead to healthier, more radiant skin, while you enjoy the wellness bunty of this miraculous nutrient.