If you’ve ever been curious about Vitamin C in skincare and why it’s becoming a popular addition in formulas, you’ve come to the right place! We asked skincare expert, Tracey Wilmot from Murad to provide a close up on Vitamin C, what its benefits are for the skin, why it’s a must-have ingredient in your summer skincare regime and her favourite products.

Why is vitamin C used in skincare?
The skin undergoes an ageing process that is affected by genetic factors and environmental factors that can accelerate skin damage through free radical stress.

Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that supports healthier-looking skin and can neutralise oxidants to help prevent visible skin damage. Unfortunately, our bodies do not naturally produce vitamin C so we must take Vitamin C supplements or eat Vitamin C rich foods and supplement with vitamin c topical care to maximise benefits.

Vitamin C is an effective antioxidant combatting the effects of pollution, smoke, sun exposure. It also promotes collagen and elastin synthesis and specifically inhibits melanin to reduce the appearance of uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation. Vitamin C is an important ingredient in helping to brighten the complexion and the appearance of lacklustre skin and loss of radiance.

What are the main benefits users see when using vitamin c products?
Key benefits are brightening and evening skin tone, a reduction in lines and wrinkles, and protection from the effects of photodamage. Vitamin C is the second line of defence against harmful UVA rays while also helping to boost skin’s antioxidant defences.

Is vitamin c skincare suitable for all skin types, even sensitive?
Vitamin C formulations are generally suitable for all skin types. That said, since formulations vary, and depending on the degree of sensitivity it’s always a good idea to do a patch test first and start off gently. Worth noting that you can expect some sensation of warmth or tingling to occur on application but this is the action of the ingredients, so always check when purchasing any vitamin C formula that the product you choose has an indication if it is suitable for sensitive skins.

For rosacea skins, before applying all over we would always recommend that you perform a patch test. Apply the product sparingly to 1 or 2 small affected areas during the first 3 days of use. If no discomfort occurs, follow directions as stated on the label.

Is it best to use vitamin c skincare at certain times of the day?
Most Vitamin C formulas can be used twice a day. This may vary if you choose a different serum for night time such as a retinol serum. It’s also important to use a moisturiser with a sunscreen (SPF 30-50) in the day time to protect skin from the effects of the sun and the environment, and a night cream for your evening skincare regimen.

Can you use vitamin c on your eye as well as your face?
Yes but always choose a Vitamin C serum or cream that has been specifically developed for the eye area as other serums may be too potent for the delicate eye area. With the right formula, you can expect dark circles to be diminished and puffiness reduced. Always read the label and follow instructions on the amount to be used and frequency of application.

Is it best to start slow with vitamin c products if you’ve never tried them before?
This would depend on skin sensitivity and may also vary according to different product formulations. If you have more sensitive skin then a patch test is the best way to proceed ( as above) and start using in the day time increasing to day and night as preferred.

What’s an ideal routine for incorporating vitamin c into your skincare and what products do you recommend?
At Murad, we have a great selection of vitamin C formulations for all types of skincare needs depending on the concern. But for overall brightening and antioxidant care, the steps below are ideal for all skin types, especially in the summer months.

These are my personal top Vitamin C hero products.

Step 1: Essential C Cleanser
Antioxidant-rich and non-drying, this cleanser is used with water and works to cleanses skin without drying, leaving skin refreshed. Can be used twice a day.

Step 2: Vita C Glycolic Brightening Serum
This is our exclusive gold-stabilized vitamin C and glycolic acid serum for enhanced stability, efficacy and potency—and that means greater brightening results. Phyto luminescent extract transforms UV into a source of light that radiates directly from the skin. 83% of users saw brighter, more radiant skin in just 4 weeks. Massage Vita-C Glycolic Brightening Serum over face, neck and chest and follow with a moisturizer.

Step 2 (eye area): Vita C Dark Circle Corrector
This is a vitamin C formula designed for the delicate eye area that works on all types of dark circles and reduces puffiness. Using a small amount ( size of a rice grain) gently pat Vita-C Eyes Dark Circle Corrector with the ring finger around the eye area. Can be used twice a day.

Step 3 DAY: Essential C Moisture SPF 30 PA +++
A daily moisturiser which helps shield skin from environmental aggressors and sun damage and brightens skin with vitamin C. Suitable for all skin types

Step 3 NIGHT: City Skin Overnight Detox Moisturiser
This breakthrough formula with super-charged antioxidants from marrubium plant stem cells neutralizes pollutants and strengthens skin’s barrier while you sleep. Next-generation vitamin C helps brighten and even tone while nourishing botanicals plump skin to help visibly reduce fine lines and wrinkles.

Shop online at Murad.co.uk

Special Offer: Use the code H&HVITAC for 20% off!
T&Cs: Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Excludes travel size & kits. Valid unit 30^th June 2020.