VITAMIN C FOR THE SKIN - EFFECTS AND TIPS FOR CORRECT APPLICATION

What is Vitamin C?

Basically, Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for us. We need it to survive and for all kinds of functions in our body. Naturally also for healthy skin. Vitamin C plays a decisive role in the formation of collagen, proteins and fats. This is because humans cannot produce Vitamin C themselves and cannot store it over a long period of time. We are therefore dependent on external sources. The regular intake of Vitamin C via food or food supplements is essential for us.

If there is a lack of Vitamin C in our body and therefore in our skin, it appears pale and saggy. So it's perfect that we can also apply Vitamin C directly where we want it in the form of creams and serums. And that brings us to what is probably the most exciting topic: the effect of Vitamin C on our skin.

Effect: What does Vitamin C do for the skin?

The benefits of this essential vitamin are manifold. Depending on the concentration, it is a real skincare benefit for all skin types - with very few exceptions.

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant

Vitamin C is one of the best-known antioxidants. Its antioxidant effect protects the skin from free radicals. These radicals are produced during metabolic processes in our body by cigarette smoke, smog and UV radiation, for example. In their search for reaction partners, they destroy everything that gets in their way. This includes innocent skin cells and their components. Vitamin C intercepts these like a shield and thus protects our skin from damage. It remains healthy and its protective barrier is strengthened.

Vitamin C stabilizes the collagen scaffold

Vitamin C can score twice here. Firstly, through its antioxidant effect and secondly, by boosting collagen production. It strengthens the existing structure, creates even more stability and is even involved in the formation of vitamin E. Vitamin E also tightens the skin and keeps it elastic. The skin appears plumper, firmer and small wrinkles disappear. You can see exactly how this happens here in the graphic:

The anti-inflammatory effect of Vitamin C on blemished skin and acne
Vitamin C gets to the root of the problem. This is because micro-inflammations, which play a major role in the development of blemishes, spots and acne, are effectively soothed by the antioxidant. The anti-inflammatory properties noticeably refine the skin's appearance. Redness is reduced and pimple marks heal more quickly. The formation of new spots is also slowed down. The skin looks radiant, healthier and more even.

Vitamin C for pigmentation and sun spots

Several studies show that Vitamin C inhibits excessive melanin formation in the skin and lightens existing spots. It therefore provides double protection thanks to its antioxidant effect. Pigmentation is caused by the oxidation of a certain amino acid. This produces melanin. The cells in the outermost layer of the skin absorb this melanin and Protect themselves from UV radiation through the brownish discoloration.

The skin type question: Is Vitamin C good for all skin types?

A resounding yes! Because we need Vitamin C in our body and in our skin to feel healthy and look radiant. It is significantly involved in important processes in our body and also helps to maintain the skin's natural functions. So, whether you have blemished, mature or balanced skin - every skin type can benefit from the many advantages of this all-rounder. As long as the concentration of Vitamin C is designed to be tolerated, even sensitive skin can benefit.

If you smoke, for example, I would even strongly recommend it. This is because the Vitamin C requirement of smokers increases dramatically. It can be up to 50% higher compared to non-smokers. Even just one cigarette causes the body to lose Vitamin C and therefore also the skin.

Which form of ascorbic acid is most suitable?

Not all Vitamin C Vitamin C is the same. Always pay attention to the form in which the Vitamin C is present in the product of your choice and, above all, in what concentration.

Ascorbic acid: pure Vitamin C effect

Ascorbic acid, i.e. pure Vitamin C, is the most effective form. However, depending on the sensitivity of the skin, it can also Treat irritation, as it is very acidic compared to pH-neutral Vitamin C derivatives. It is also very susceptible to oxidation. Once exposed to air, it quickly loses its effect. And due to its water-soluble properties , it cannot be processed well in creams. This is why you will find Vitamin C or pure ascorbic acid mainly in serums, ampoules or powdered products. But be careful: do not use too often and preferably not on sensitive skin.

Because the effect itself is still great, we use pure L-ascorbic acid in our Vitamin C ampoules. Thanks to the airtight seal of the ampoule, the active ingredient is completely preserved for the individual dose. And because of the small quantity and direct consumption, we can also do without silicones or microplastics, which are otherwise often used in products that are not hermetically sealed because the Vitamin C is enclosed in them and protected from oxidation.

We also use it in powder form in our enzyme peeling. Here, Vitamin C is present as a raw material in the form of a crystalline solid. It is therefore optimally protected from oxidation as long as it does not come into contact with water. Because our enzyme peeling is a dry, anhydrous powder , the Vitamin C is only activated by contact with water during application and therefore retains its full effect on the skin.

Ascorbyl glucoside: Stable derivative for serums & creams

Vitamin C is also available in other dosage forms, such as ascorbyl glucoside, a water-soluble derivative of Vitamin C and much more stable than pure Vitamin C. As a compound of ascorbic acid and glucose, ascorbyl glucoside provides a very pleasant serum texture and is therefore considered the gold standard among Vitamin C.

Ascorbyl glucoside is a precursor to the actual active form and is only converted in the skin. In contrast to ascorbic acid, ascorbyl glucoside acts in the pH-neutral skin area. Ascorbic acid, on the other hand, can only develop its effect properly if the product is formulated in the pH value range of 3.0-3.5. This acidic pH-value can sometimes cause Treat. This allows for a particularly skin-friendly application and less irritation, which is why it can also be used without hesitation on sensitive skin. Sensitive skin also benefits from the antioxidant glow effect of vitamin C.

Ascorbyl glucoside is therefore particularly great for you if you have little to no experience with Vitamin C . And of course, if you prefer a mild serum . That's why we also use it in our Vitamin C Sensitive serum and our Eye Cream. 

VITAMIN C SENSITIVE SERUM

Gives you a radiant & even complexion

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Ethyl ascorbic acid: Intensive effect for advanced users

If you have already tried Vitamin C and would like to test the next level for your skin, ethyl ascorbic acid is the right choice. It is also a derivative and comes very close to pure ascorbic acid in terms of its effect, but is significantly more stable and also works in the less acidic pH range of the skin. This makes it more tolerable for your skin. Studies have shown that it increases collagen synthesis, protects against free radicals and reduces pigmentation spots.

Another advantage of ethyl ascorbic acid is that it is hydrophilic (water-loving) and lipophilic (fat-loving), which means that the different molecules of this Vitamin C derivative can be better absorbed by the skin.

This is why we have also opted for this in our Vitamin C intensive serum . At a correspondingly high intensity of 10%, you can lighten spots and pigmentation marks, boost your skin's collagen production and Protect it from oxidative stress and photo-ageing, i.e. light-induced skin ageing. For a fresh complexion and plumper skin.

VITAMIN C INTENSIVE SERUM

Helps to lighten pigmentation marks and spots on your skin

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How do you use the Vitamin C serums?

You generally apply our serums in the third step of your skincare routine: Treat. This means that you have already cleansed your skin and, if necessary, applied a toner applied. 

You can always use the Vitamin C Sensitive serum AM and / or PM . If you use it AM , it can develop its antioxidant effect throughout the day and ward off environmental influences and free radicals. Important: sun screen because this is the only way to really protect your skin efficiently.

Ideally, you should use the Vitamin C intensive serum in the evening. Your skin can absorb and process the powerful active ingredient particularly well overnight. You will wake up the next morning with a wonderful glow. But the same applies here: protect your skin with the right Sun care. 

Apply your serum to your forehead, cheeks and chin. 2-3 drops are enough for your face. If you like, treat your neck and décolleté at the same time. Once it is well absorbed, you can continue with your skincare routine as usual. It is best to store your Vitamin C serums in a cool, dark and tightly sealed place.

Sun is not always fun - sun screen is mandatory!

As I have mentioned a few times before, I cannot say it often enough in connection with the active ingredient Vitamin C : provide your skin with an additional sun screen of at least SPF 30, because your skin reacts even more sensitively to UV radiation when you use Vitamin C . Especially in higher concentrations, ascorbic acid has an exfoliating effect (similar to an AHA peeling). This means that the outermost horny layer dissolves and releases fresh cells. And young skin cannot yet Protect itself against the sun and urgently needs support.

The combination of Vitamin C and sun screen is also doubly beneficial for your skin, as Vitamin C can improve the effect of your sunscreen by neutralizing free radicals.

So don't forget your sunscreen!

Can I combine the Vitamin C serums and other Vitamin C products with other products?

Our Vitamin C products can be combined well with other active ingredients and products from our range. The simultaneous use of Vitamin C and additional vitamins and antioxidants is even recommended. For example, you can effectively combine our Vitamin C Sensitive serum with our Hyaluronic Concentrate or one of our hyaluronic creams in combination.

In general, however, you can always check the description on our product detail pages to see if there is anything to consider when combining with other products.

FAQ

Why is Vitamin C recommended as an antioxidant for the skin?

Vitamin C is valued as an antioxidant because it can help to Protect the skin from external influences such as UV radiation and environmental pollution. These factors are linked to oxidative stress, which is considered a possible cause of skin ageing.

Can Vitamin C help to improve the appearance of sun damage?

Antioxidant Actives such as Vitamin C can help neutralize free radicals caused by UV rays. As a result, it can help the skin regenerate and contribute to reducing hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone. However, it does not replace a sun screen - broad-spectrum UV protection remains essential to prevent further damage.

What role does Vitamin C play in collagen production?

A key function of Vitamin C is to support collagen synthesis. As a cofactor of certain enzymes, it promotes the formation of stable collagen structures, which are necessary for the firmness and elasticity of the skin. An adequate supply of Vitamin C can help to strengthen the skin structure and counteract the premature formation of wrinkles.

Can Vitamin C affect the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles?

Skin care products with Vitamin C are often included in anti-ageing routines, as collagen is considered a key factor in skin elasticity. Whether and how changes occur can vary from person to person.

Why is Vitamin C used in skin care products to combat pigmentation spots?

Many skin care products for the treatment of hyperpigmentation contain Vitamin C, as it can inhibit the enzyme tyrosinase, which is responsible for melanin production. Thanks to this property, Vitamin C helps to lighten dark spots and even out the complexion.

For optimum effect, we recommend combining Vitamin C with sun screen to prevent the formation of new pigment spots.

How long does it take for changes to appear in the skin?

The skin reacts individually to skin care products containing Vitamin C and it may take a few weeks before a change is noticed. Vitamin C is an ingredient in many skin care formulas that aim to refine the skin's appearance.

The effect can depend on factors such as the concentration of the vitamin, the selected formulation (e.g. serum or cream), regular use and other influencing factors such as skin type, sun exposure and general skincare routine.

Are you curious now? Then you're sure to find the perfect Vitamin C product for your skin in our selection. And if not, please contact our customer service or get personal advice right away!