As people become more focused on skincare, Vitamin C has emerged as the focal point in many beauty products. Many friends frequently ask about the optimal timing for using Vitamin C and Vitamin A, so today, I will provide a detailed analysis of the functions of these antioxidants and how to correctly implement the skincare method of “Vitamin C in the morning, Vitamin A at night.”
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that our bodies cannot produce on their own and must be obtained through diet. It is commonly found in various fruits and vegetables and plays a crucial role in maintaining skin health. For a long time, people have believed that a healthy diet can help keep the skin radiant because the body requires numerous antioxidants to combat free radical damage, and Vitamin C is one of them.
The effects of Vitamin C on the skin are primarily reflected in several aspects. Firstly, this vitamin can effectively counteract sun damage, which has led to the skincare concept of “Vitamin C in the morning, Vitamin A at night.” Using Vitamin C during the day helps protect against skin tone changes caused by UV rays and reduces the formation of wrinkles. In addition, the role of Vitamin C in promoting collagen synthesis cannot be overlooked; it effectively reduces fine lines, making the skin appear firmer and younger.
The effects of Vitamin C are not limited to collagen production alone. It also serves as a treatment measure by reducing melanin production, thus demonstrating significant improvement in hormonal pigmentation. In clinical settings, we often use Vitamin C in combination with other therapies, such as medications and chemical peels, to achieve better results in spot reduction. Vitamin C inhibits the enzyme that produces melanin, giving it considerable potential in whitening and improving uneven skin tone.
Although laser technology offers convenient solutions, Vitamin C can serve as a preventive measure in daily skincare. It is important to note that relying solely on Vitamin C without using other antioxidants and whitening products may not yield obvious results. Therefore, it is recommended to combine multiple ingredients to enhance skincare effectiveness.
On the other hand, Vitamin C formulations require high standards because Vitamin C is prone to oxidation in daily use, and the efficacy of opened products degrades quickly. To ensure effectiveness, the pH of Vitamin C is typically required to be between 2.0 to 3.5, which is conducive to its absorption. However, those with sensitive skin may experience discomfort, so a patch test before use is recommended.
When using Vitamin C, different formulations’ concentrations should be considered. Generally, a concentration of below 10% is sufficient to achieve its effects, while excessively high concentrations do not necessarily yield better results. Furthermore, the latest ascorbic acid formulations on the market not only effectively extend shelf life but also increase stability.
Lastly, if you have the opportunity, it is recommended to try combining Vitamin C with other ingredients like azelaic acid; this may enhance your skincare results significantly.