Vitamin C

Few people are aware of the anti-aging benefits of Vitamin C (ascorbic acid).  When used correctly, it can be a true ally in your fight against aging skin.  Vitamin C must be obtained solely from food since it is not manufactured by the body. Citric fruits are a good source of Vitamin C and are essential in the prevention of scurvy.  Topically, Vitamin C is a major line of defense for aging skin since;  like the rest of the body, the skin is vulnerable to deficiency.  It is a potent antioxidant and is essential in the formation of collagen.  Sun exposure and smoking are the most common causes of damaged skin.  Using topical Vitamin C enhances the skin's ability to neutralize free radical damage created by the sun's ultraviolet rays.  Topical preparations are more effective than oral preparations because a higher dose is available to penetrate the needed area.  Vitamin C is a photoprotectant and has the ability to reduce sunburn cells and decrease redness when the skin is exposed to UVA and UVB rays. 

Vitamin C is very unstable and can be easily oxidized upon exposure to light and oxygen.  Therefore, a container that prevents exposure to the sun and air is crucial in maintaining Vitamin C potency.  Once it is oxidized Vitamin C is rendered ineffective. A change in color is indicative of expired Vitamin C.  The strengths range from 5% to 15%.  Concentrations greater than 15% tend to be irritating to the skin.  A skincare regimen including a Vitamin C product is very beneficial in aiding the fight against aging skin.