Skin Science
Vitamin C: The Science Beneath the Glow
Why this much-talked-about ingredient deserves its place — and how to use it well.
Vitamin C is one of the few skincare ingredients with decades of clinical research behind it. The challenge is not whether it works, but how to use it well.
What it actually does
Vitamin C is an antioxidant. It neutralises free radicals generated by UV exposure and pollution, helps regulate pigmentation, and supports collagen synthesis. Used consistently, it brightens, evens, and protects.
Form matters
L-ascorbic acid is the most studied form, typically at 10–20% in a low-pH formula. It is also the most temperamental — sensitive to light, air, and heat. Newer derivatives such as ascorbyl glucoside and tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate are gentler and more stable, though slower to act.
How to use it
Morning, on clean skin, before SPF. Start two to three times a week and build from there. Pair with a broad-spectrum sunscreen — vitamin C and SPF together are stronger than either alone.
When to be patient
Visible results take eight to twelve weeks of consistent use. Reach for it as a long-term investment, not a quick fix.
Information in this article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for a professional medical consultation. Please speak with a qualified practitioner about treatments suited to your individual needs.
