The chokehold vitamin C has on the skincare industry is wild.
So there’s no doubt in my mind that you have heard about this particularly popular ingredient before.
Not only is vitamin C one of the best ingredients for brightening skin, but the vitamin C derivative L-ascorbic acid has extensive scientific evidence backing up its claims promising to even out the skin, treat pigmentation, reduce fine lines and ageing, and protect skin from UV damage when applied alongside your sunscreen.
Yes, it’s a great ingredient. But you need to know...
Vitamin C is not a skincare ingredient for everyone.
In fact, skin issues and irritation from using vitamin C is something that pops up in my skin clinic a lot.
The best ingredients for brightening skin won't help you if they aren't the best for you.
I always like to remind people that every skincare product in a routine needs to have a purpose.
Case in point: If vitamin C makes you break out or leaves your skin feeling irritated, there are other great brightening ingredients for reducing the look of pigment you could be using instead.
Side note: If you've ever Googled 'can I use lemon juice instead of a vitamin C serum', the answer is OVER MY DEAD BODY.
In this article, I'm sure you'll find an alternative to vitamin c serums that will work for your skin.
Vitamin C, Pimples & Sensitive Skin Explained.
Ever used a vitamin C serum, only to break out in pimples or wake up the next day with inflammed skin?
It's not you. It's (usually) L-ascorbic acid.
As we mentioned above, L-ascorbic acid is the most potent, effective form of vitamin C.
However, L-ascorbic acid is actually a super unstable ingredient, so it is often formulated in skin care at a very low pH.
This can be quite irritating to those with sensitive, sensitised skin prone to inflammation, especially if it's also being used in a routine with other active products that might weaken an already sensitive skin barrier.
Learn more about vitamin C in this YouTube video below.