Vitamin C plays a significant role in the production of collagen – a protein that prevents the skin from sagging, making it look young and smooth.
Face Serums have long been touted as one of the best skincare products for good reasons. They are packed with essential skin nourishing elements, such as Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs), and Retinol (Vitamin A). Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals and prevents the skin from losing its elasticity and strength. That’s why, a Vitamin C Serum should be an integral part of your skin-care regimen.
Of all the wide variety of products available in the market, choosing the best Vitamin C Serum is crucial. Following factors will help you decide how to pick an effective Vitamin C Serum for everyday use.
#1: Choose the right Concentration
The most advantageous and efficient concentrations of Vitamin C in Serums are between 10 and 20 percent.
Lower concentrations might not bring adequate results and higher concentrations can cause skin irritation without bringing any additional benefits.
#2: Pay attention to the Form
While Vitamin C can be listed on ingredient labels under various names, L-ascorbic acid (or simply ascorbic acid) is the most effective (stable) form in which it is absorbed by the skin.
L-ascorbic acid is by far the most active and most researched form of topical Vitamin C.
Did You Know?
For best results, a serum should always be layered underneath a hydrating moisturizer and a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
#3: Look for the Stabilizing Agents
Vitamin C is extremely unstable in its pure form (ascorbic acid). It readily oxidizes when exposed to light or air. For this reason, it is often combined with other ingredients such as Vitamin E, Glutathione and Ferulic Acid, to make it more stable and enhance its ability to cure skin problems.
#4: Pay attention to the pH Level
Absorption of Vitamin C mostly depends on its pH level.
A serum’s pH should fall within the range of 4 to 6. While most of the serums come with a ‘pH-balanced‘ tag, a lower pH level might sting or irritate people with sensitive skin.
Did You Know?
The natural pH of our skin falls between 4.7 to 5.7, which indicates that it is slightly acidic.
#5: Look for effective Packaging
Serums can be deteriorated when exposed to heat, light, or air. Instead of an air pump, seek out products packaged in dark glass bottles with medicine droppers. As soon as you cover up the lid, be sure to screw it on tightly to prevent air from leaking in.
To increase the product’s shelf life, keep it in a cool, light environment, preferably in a refrigerator. A considerate manufacturer always provide storage advice on the label of its serums.
Also Read: 7 Natural Remedies For Acne Treatment.
Final Take
Vitamin C Serums are generally safe for the majority of people. However, they should not be combined with certain actives (such as AHAs, BHAs, Retinol) in the same routine.
Always do a patch test before applying the serum on your face. Make sure that your serum is colourless, or have a light champagne colour. A dark-coloured serum indicates that it has already been oxidized and is going to be less effective. Also, if the serum starts to smell bad, its time for you to change the product.
