Vitamin C is often celebrated for its immune-boosting properties, but did you know it’s also a powerhouse for your skin? This vital nutrient plays a significant role in maintaining a radiant and youthful complexion.
This blog delves into the multifaceted benefits of vitamin C for the skin, focusing on its involvement in collagen production, antioxidant defence and anti-aging effects.
Here’s why your skin loves vitamin C:
1. Boosts collagen production
Collagen is the protein responsible for keeping our skin firm and elastic. As we age, collagen production naturally declines, leading to wrinkles and sagging. Vitamin C is crucial in collagen synthesis – it stabilises collagen molecules and promotes their production, helping to maintain the skin’s firmness and elasticity.
2. Antioxidant protection against sun damage
Our skin is constantly exposed to environmental stressors like ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun, which can lead to premature aging and skin damage. Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant, neutralising harmful free radicals generated by UV exposure. This means it helps protect your skin from photodamage, reducing the risk of wrinkles and discoloration.
3. Brightens skin and reduces pigmentation
Uneven skin tone and dark spots can be frustrating. Vitamin C inhibits the enzyme tyrosinase, which is involved in melanin production, thereby helping to lighten hyperpigmentation and brighten your complexion. Regular use of vitamin C has been used in treating conditions like melasma and photoaging.
4. Promotes wound healing
Because of its anti-inflammatory actions, it helps promote wound healing and prevents post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. It can be used in instances of acne vulgaris and rosacea.
5. Strengthens the skin barrier
A healthy skin barrier is essential for retaining moisture and protecting against environmental aggressors. Vitamin C enhances the skin’s barrier function by promoting the differentiation of keratinocytes, the primary cells in the outermost layer of the skin. This leads to improved hydration and resilience.
Incorporating vitamin C into your skincare routine
Given its numerous benefits, adding vitamin C to your skincare regimen is a smart move. Topical vitamin C products, such as serums and creams, can deliver different concentrations directly to the skin. Look for products with a clinical formulation that contains L-ascorbic acid (an active form of vitamin C) with a strength of 10% – 20%, and a pH lower than 3.5.
While topical applications are effective, maintaining a diet rich in vitamin C – think citrus fruits, berries and leafy greens – or vitamin C supplementation also supports overall skin health.
Think of vitamin C as your skin’s ultimate bestie – it’s got your back in so many ways! It helps build collagen for bouncy, youthful skin, fights off pesky free radicals, evens out dark spots, speeds up healing and keeps your skin barrier strong.
When choosing your supplement, always check if there is a full list of ingredients on the product, a package insert, a valid company address with contact details and compliance to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), which is a prerequisite for health product manufacturing.
References
- Cleveland Clinic. (2022). Collagen. Cleveland Clinic. Available from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/23089-collagen (Accessed: 25 April 2025)
- Correia, G., & Magina, S. (2023). Efficacy of topical vitamin C in melasma and photoaging: A systematic review. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 22(7): 1938–1945. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.15748
- Divine Dermatology. (n.d.) Skin Barrier Health: Why It matters and How to Protect It. Divine Dermatology. Available from: https://divinedermatology.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-skin-barrier-health-why-it-matters-and-how-to-protect-it/ (Accessed: 18 May 2025)
- Nathan, N. & Patel, P. (2021). Why is topical vitamin C important for skin health? Harvard Health. Available from https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/why-is-topical-vitamin-c-important-for-skin-health-202111102635 (Accessed: 25 April 2025)
- Pullar, J. M., Carr, A. C., & Vissers, M. C. M. (2017). The Roles of Vitamin C in Skin Health. Nutrients. 9(8): 866. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9080866
- Savini, I., Catani, M. V., Rossi, A., Duranti, G., Melino, G., & Avigliano, L. (2002). Characterization of keratinocyte differentiation induced by ascorbic acid: protein kinase C involvement and vitamin C homeostasis. The Journal of Investigative Dermatology. 118(2): 372–379. https://doi.org/10.1046/j.0022-202x.2001.01624.x
- Telang, P. S. (2013). Vitamin C in Dermatology. Indian Dermatology Online Journal. 4(2): 143–146. https://doi.org/10.4103/2229-5178.110593
- Yousef, H., et al. (2024). Anatomy, Skin (Integument), Epidermis. StatPearls. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470464/ (Accessed: 25 April 2025)
- Wang, K., et al. (2018). Role of Vitamin C in Skin Diseases. Frontiers in Physiology. 9:819. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphys.2018.00819
