The Importance of Topical Vitamin C

Topical Vitamin C is very important for the overall health and wellness of our skin.  It is known as one of the best anti-aging ingredients on the market.  Whenever our skin is exposed to what it considers an “insult” (such as pollution, wind, dry air, tobacco smoke, poor quality make-up or sun), our cells produce free radicals in response.  Free radicals cause everything we don’t like: brown spots, poor texture, fine lines, enlarged pores and even skin cancer.  Multiple studies have shown that medical grade topical Vitamin C, because it’s an anti-oxidant, neutralizes these free radicals so they can’t wreck their havoc. Topical Vitamin C also has skin-lightening effects, so it will work to minimize existing brown spots. Read along for some of the top benefits of using a medical grade topical Vitamin C.

Promotes Collagen Production

Collagen is a naturally occurring structural protein made up of amino acids.  It plays an important role in the skin’s elasticity and strength. As we age, our levels of collagen naturally deplete. Vitamin C, when applied topically, can help produce collagen in our skin. Skin with healthy levels of both collagen and elastin give the skin a more youthful, smooth appearance, thus reducing the signs of premature aging.

Hydrating

Without sufficient moisture, the top layer of our skin starts to dry out. This is especially true in dryer climates such as Colorado. When our skin starts to dry out, it can appear scaly and show premature aging. Hydration is so important in keeping our skin looking healthy and smooth. A topical vitamin C and E complex can help restore and retain moisture in our skin.

Brightening

Hyperpigmentation – including age spots, sun spots, and melasma – occurs when melanin is overproduced. Vitamin C has been shown to help fade pigmentation, in turn, giving the skin a brighter glow. It can also help even out your complexion and skin tone by reducing reduce redness through its anti-inflammatory properties. With consistent vitamin C usage, it can help prevent dark spots from forming in the first place.

Protects Against Sun Damage

Exposure to free radicals have a negative effect on our skin.  Vitamin C limits the damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) exposure. Vitamin C levels tend to be lower in aged or photodamaged skin.  Applying a topical Vitamin C product, high in antioxidants, can help protect healthy skin cells so the free radicals can cause as much damage to our skin.  While you should not replace your sunscreen with topical vitamin C, it can help to provide another layer of protection and protect against the harmful effects from the sun. 

When to Apply Vitamin C

Vitamin C should be applied to our skin immediately after cleansing.  It should be allowed to absorb into the skin for about 20-30 seconds before other products are put on top of it.  You can apply any excess product onto your neck and decolletage. While you can use it both morning and night, we believe you may get the best benefit from it in the morning since it helps to protect the skin for pollutants in the environment.  For optimal results, you should apply vitamin C every single day. If you are using a topical vitamin C for the first time, we recommend applying a thin layer to a small area and or using every other day to minimize any skin irradiation that may occur. 

The Difference in OTC and Medical Grade Vitamin C

Medical grade Vitamin C products can only be sold where a physician is present, such as at Genesis MedSpa.  It is important to use a medical grade product for several reasons.  These products have a higher percentage of active ingredients and are made from a more stable form of Vitamin C than are over the counter products.  They are often combined with ingredients which have been shown to enhance their power over free radicals, such as Ferulic Acid and Vitamin E.  It’s important to remember that Vitamin C taken in through our mouths does not get to our skin cells in a high enough concentration to be beneficial, thus the significance of using a quality, topical vitamin C.   

Side Effects?

Ok, so all the benefits of using a topical Vitamin C seem great!  But are there any side effects to be concerned about?  Topical Vitamin C is generally well tolerated, but all skin products have the potential to cause side effects so you should always do a small test area to assess your risk of a reaction.  Some of the most common side effects reported by patients when using vitamin C for the first time include itching, mild skin irritation, or a tingling sensation.  These reactions should not last long.  If you experience continued irritation or signs of an allergic reaction such as hives, you should wash your skin immediately and discontinue use until you can meet with your doctor or provider that recommended the product.

Our Favorite Vitamin C Products

IS Clinical Pro-Heal: Good for rosacea cystic acne, and contact dermatitis. Helps calm inflammation and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
IS Clinical Super Serum:  Good for oily skin, scarring, stretch marks, and brown-based pigmentation. Copper Tripeptide Growth Factor helps stimulate collagen.

IS Youth Intensive Creme: Gently exfoliates the skin. Hydrates and improves elasticity.

Skin Medica Vitamin C+E Complex: Improves skin tone and texture with antioxidant protection.

LAS Vitariche Serum: Provides antioxidant protection while smoothing and brightening the skin.
LAS Rejuvanize Hydra-Plus: Antioxidant protection as well as hydration. Improves skin elasticity and stimulates collagen production.

LAS Dermabright: Gently exfoliates the skin while providing antioxidant protection and brightens overall skin tone.

LAS Dermaglo: Reduced red-based pigmentation while stimulating collagen production.

Genesis MedSpa offers several different medical grade formulations of Vitamin C so that any skin type can find one that works.  For example, our dry clients often prefer the serum form, while acneic-prone clients prefer our light cream.  Call or visit us today to learn more about the amazing benefits of using a topical vitamin C!