What is vitamin C?
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble nutrient found in some foods. On the body, it acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect cells from the damage caused by free radicals. We are exposed to free radicals in the environment from cigarette smoke, air pollution, ultraviolet light from the sun and blue light radiation from technology. The body also needs vitamin C to make collagen, a protein which is the supportive structure for our skin and collagen is required to help wounds heal. In addition, vitamin C improves the absorption of iron from plant-based foods and helps the immune system work properly to protect the body from disease. Vitamin C is also known to shorten the lifespan of common colds by strengthening the immune system.
The recommended daily intake of vitamin C in Adult Men is 90 mg and Adult Women 7mg. If you smoke, add an additional 35 mg to your diet. Fruits and vegetables are the best sources of vitamin C. You can get recommended amounts of vitamin C by eating a variety of foods including the following:
Citrus fruits such as oranges and grapefruit, red and green capsicum and kiwifruit, have a lot of vitamin C.
Other fruits and vegetables such as broccoli, strawberries, cantaloupe, potatoes, and tomatoes contain vitamin C.
There are 5 main changes Vitamin C creates on your skin:
Fights free radicals: vitamin C donates high-energy electrons to neutralize free radicals. Preventing cell damage or death
Strengthening: Cell culture studies have shown that the addition of vitamin C enhances the production of barrier lipids, and from these observations it has been proposed that vitamin C influence the ability of the skin to protect itself from water loss hydrating effect on skin. It decreases transepidermal water loss, allowing your skin to better retain moisture, repairing barrier function
Brightening: By reducing inflammatory conditions causing redness, inhibiting melanin production and the strengthening of the barrier function the skin's health is even in skin tone, fresh and vibrant
Fades pigment: Vitamin C is known to lighten and hinder the production of melanin in the skin which causes uneven, undesirable pigmentation conditions.
Stimulates collagen: Vitamin C is well known for boosting collagen production Collagen is a naturally occurring protein that depletes over time. Lower levels of collagen can lead to fine lines and wrinkles and looking aged.
By adding Vitamin C into your daily routine at home your skin will thank you in the weeks to come!
Our favourite go to Vitamin C is Epicure Vitamin C Anti-aging Serum in the morning under my moisturiser and SPF and Mesoestetic Energy C Intensive at night time before bed.
True Dermal Cosmeceutical Skincare Solutions
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