It’s no secret that Vitamin C is a skin care superstar. This powerhouse ingredient is celebrated for its ability to deliver a brighter complexion, even out skin tone and diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Here’s everything you need to know about Vitamin C and how to add it to your skin care routine.
What Is Vitamin C?
First things first: What exactly is Vitamin C? Also known as ascorbic acid, Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that is necessary for the growth, development and repairrof all body tissues - including the skin. As Eminence Organics Lead Skin Care Trainer Natalie Pergar tells us: “Vitamin C is an incredibly effective nutrient for your body and an all-around savior for skin care. It’s been found to help prevent UV damage, reduce pigmentation, reduce inflammation and boost collagen production in skin.” We cannot produce Vitamin C and our bodies don’t store it; therefore, we can only receive its benefits by ingesting it (think chewable vitamins and freshly-squeezed orange juice) or by applying it topically (cue Vitamin C in your favorite skin care serums and moisturizers). Popular sources of Vitamin C include:
Citrus fruits such as lemon, orange and grapefruit
Leafy greens such as kale, broccoli and spinach
Tomatoes
Strawberries
Rosehip oil
Seabuckthorn oil