So one of my favorite products to use on my skin is vitamin C! It has so many amazing benefits like reducing acne scars and giving a natural glow. However, I made a few mistakes that actually dried my skin out when I first started using it. I had so many questions about it like “when do I use it"?” and “in what order do I apply the vitamin C?'“, or “what kind of vitamin C product should I use?”! Today, I am going to answer all the questions I had and list some important things you should know before diving into adding vitamin C in your routine. If vitamin C is already a part of your skincare routine, I have a few tips for you as well!
What Vitamin C does for your skin and why use it
It is an antioxidant meaning they help prevent the cell damage caused by harmful molecules
Helps slow down aging
It is a skin brightening agent that works to fade brown spots and can prevent future dark spots on skin
Has enzyme that stimulates melanin productions
Vitamin C limits the damage induced by ultraviolet (UV) light exposure
It is a healing agent for your skin
Accelerates production of collagen and elastin
When to use Vitamin C and how frequently you should use it
It can be used in the morning AM or at night PM- if using it in the morning you must use with sunscreen
Recommended to use with vitamin E for extra punch but not if you have oily skin because vitamin e is an oil-soluble vitamin and can clog pores
Start using it twice a week if you are new to adding it to your skincare routine
Then progress to using it 5 days a week
I personally prefer to wear it in the morning to help with sun protection
Where to apply Vitamin C
Full face, neck, and chest - apply sunscreen over any area on top
In between what products
You should use it in the following order if your Vitamin C is a serum
Cleanser → toner → vitamin c serum→ make sure skin is slightly damp → hyaluronic acid → eye cream→ spf moisturizer
You should use it in the following order if your Vitamin C is a cream
Cleanser → toner → serum→ hyaluronic acid → eye cream→ Vitamin C moisturizer → spf moisturizer
What skin types should use Vitamin C
It is okay for all skin types but be aware of what percentage it is at.
If your skin is more sensitive- only go up to 5% concentration
If you are allergic to high acidic foods, try a little bit at a lower percentage first
If you have oily skin- use a water based vitamin C. Look for the following on the ingredient list:
L-ascorbic acid (water-soluble),
Sodium ascorbyl phosphate or Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate (water-soluble),
Ascorbyl palmitate (fat-soluble),
Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate (fat-soluble), etc
When NOT to use Vitamin C
Do not mix with benzoyl peroxide because it can oxidize vitamin C
Avoid using with other acids to prevent irritation
Do not use it with retinol. Retinol can make vitamin C unstable and less likely to penetrate the skin
Okay to use it with Niacinamide but not always recommended
Vitamin C Skincare 101 by krity_s on Jumprope.
Product examples of Vitamin C
I prefer it in serum form
Look for vitamin C in dark bottles or that are covered. Getting sun exposure to the product makes it less effective.
If the product has turned brown- return and do not use it! Keep in a cool dark place
Replace every 6 months
Do not have the tip of the beaker touch your face...ever!
Favorites are no bs serum
Paulas choice booster
Paulas choice liquid serum
Triology cream
Thank you for reading!!
XOXO,
Krity
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