Aging gracefully is no easy feat. It’s mostly about maintaining perspective and a positive mindset, but youthful, glowing skin doesn’t hurt.
One of the most effective ways to maintain a dewy complexion is to provide the skin with a steady supply of vitamin C. Dietary vitamin C is a great place to start, but it may take a more direct approach to tackle signs of aging. That’s where vitamin C serums and topicals come in.
Vitamin C serum’s benefits are plentiful, extending beyond just the visible signs of aging. It's also a handy sun damage protector, working in tandem with high-SPF sunscreens or moisturizers. Integrating vitamin C products into an anti-aging skin care routine is proven to be safe and effective.
WHY USE A VITAMIN C SERUM?
There are plenty of success stories online from skin care devotees who incorporated vitamin C serum — before-and-after photos paint a dramatic picture. But what can it actually do?
Vitamin C face serums are safe for most skin types and help combat hyperpigmentation, discoloration, sensitive skin, dry skin, sagging, dullness, oily skin, breakouts, acne scars, acne-prone skin, and more. Here are some of the potential benefits of a vitamin C serum:
Brightens skin
Melanin production is a naturally occurring process that darkens skin tone over time. Introducing Vitamin C impedes this process. Continued use may reduce pigmentation while smoothing skin texture, leading to a radiant, youthful glow.
Minimizes redness
Vitamin C provides potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help even skin tone and reduce puffiness. Serums can help neutralize free radicals and optimize the immune system, discouraging inflammation and long-term damage.
Promotes collagen production
High concentrations of collagen are vital to maintaining a dewy, youthful glow. Unfortunately, collagen eventually depletes over the years, leading to the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Vitamin C is known to slow this process by firing-up collagen production.
Reduces dark circles
Dark under-eye circles are a visible sign of aging most people hope to avoid. Steady doses of vitamin C plump and hydrate the skin under the eyes, significantly reducing dark spots and discoloration.
Protects against sun damage
The free radicals that accumulate from excessive UV exposure can lead to significant skin damage when vitamin C levels are low. Vitamin C is rich in antioxidants that protect healthy skin by rendering these free radicals harmless.
TOP VITAMIN C SERUMS
Many high-end brands have developed dermatology-grade skin care products to help maintain clear, youthful skin. Here is a look at some of the top vitamin c serums:
1. Dr. Barbara Sturm
Dr. Barbara Sturm’s Good C Vitamin C Serum is a potent formula containing three forms of vitamin C that are easily absorbable and gentle on the skin. The formula is also one of the best vitamin C serums for oily skin. The active ingredient complex includes hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, extract from Kakadu plums, and more.
2. 111Skin
111Skin’s Vitamin C Brightening Serum Booster packs concentrated levels of vitamin C, which target signs of hyperpigmentation, age spots, and uneven skin tone. The product inhibits the production of tyrosinase, a component in skin discoloration.
3. Plantkos
From eye creams to exfoliating cleansers, Plantkos's lineup provides plenty of ways to nourish the skin. The Phyto Triple C Serum is a proprietary phytomedicinal complex that includes Ayurvedic herbs, enzymes, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate to awaken the skin while providing environmental protection.
4. Omorovicza
Omorovicza's Daily Vitamin C serum provides protection from environmental factors while helping to revive dull skin. Key ingredients include sodium ascorbyl phosphate, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, watercress extract, and more.
The best part? Skin care savants can use Omorovicza's cosmetic products guilt-free; They have been approved under the Cruelty-Free International Leaping Bunny program.
5. Kiehl's Since 1851
Kiehl's Since 1851 has earned its reputation as a leader in the skin care market. The label’s Powerful-Strength Line-Reducing & Dark Circle-Diminishing Vitamin C Eye Serum is an effective tool to help visibly reduce under-eye dark circles, crow’s feet, and puffy eyes. Its blend of vitamin C, tri-peptide, and hyaluronic acid hydrates the skin to help prevent tired-looking eyes.
HOW TO USE VITAMIN C SERUM
As a general rule of thumb, serums are most effective when applied after using a facial cleanser or toner and before using a hydrating moisturizer. Topical vitamin C serums are generally well-tolerated by all skin types, but new products always pose a risk of irritation. It’s wise to perform a patch test to see if any skin reactions occur.
Pick a small area of skin in an easily concealed location, such as the forearm. Apply a small amount and wait 24 hours to monitor for adverse reactions. If the skin remains clear and free from irritation, the product should be safe for facial application.
COMPLETE YOUR SKIN CARE ROUTINE
Good genes aren’t the only contributing factor to healthy, beautiful skin. A solid skin care routine with effective active ingredients goes a long way toward maintaining a clear and youthful complexion. Bergdorf Goodman carries an extensive range of luxury beauty products from the top names in the industry to address all your skin care needs.
