I love how the beauty world is slowly (but surely) taking the organic and all natural route. We now have many brands popping here and there introducing different products containing less harmful chemicals, if not organic-based or 100% natural (although I don’t really know when you can call something 100%, unless it’s squeezed out fresh from a fruit???)
Nonetheless, I’m very pleased with the variety of brands I can now go to and find the best well-suited products for my sensitive skin. It’s a bummer when your skin just rejects almost everything that everyone’s raving about. So you have to go for Plan B or even C, if you must. I turned to Vitamin C and not just drinking the juice like it’s the last drop on earth or peeling the fruit but apply it topically – cream, gel, serum, mist, you name it.
Vitamin C is well-known for its wonders from centuries ago, saving many British sailors lives from the dreaded scurvy. Those unfortunate sailors who couldn’t get fresh fruits and vegetables back then suffered bleeding under the skin, ulcers and joint weakness. That’s because Vitamin C, is key to the production of collagen, a protein that aids in the growth of cells and blood vessels and gives skin it’s firmness and strength. (source: WebMD)
Vitamin C Skin Benefits
When it comes to incorporating this in your skincare, Vitamin C (or ascorbic acid) will bring amazing results to your skin, especially troubled ones. Long term used of Vitamin C can lead to collagen regeneration, helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles and smooth fine lines plus it also fights free radicals that can damage our skin. It’s also proven to contain lightening or brightening properties, which will be perfect in getting rid of dark spots from acne breakouts (like mine!) and lighten any superficial pigmentation.
Research suggests that Vitamin C may also reduce sunburn caused by exposure to ultraviolet B radiation and prevent the consequences of long-term sun exposure, which can lead to skin cancer [sources: University of Maryland Medical Center, Bouchez]. This doesn’t mean you can take vitamins or apply topical vitamin C and then bake safely in the sun, but you can help keep your skin healthy and supple by making sure you get enough of this antioxidant vitamin [source: Bouchez].
Eating Healthy Equals Healthy Skin
We all know that to have a healthy and beautiful skin, we must start from within, right? Natural sources of Vitamin C are as follow: oranges, red and green peppers, strawberries, blackcurrants, brussel sprouts (lordy!) potatoes, just to name a few.
My skin is definitely reaping the benefits from using a few products with the Vitamin C goodness for over 6 months now but I know the dramatic change in my diet has definitely made a big contribution as well. Becoming a Mom has lead me to opt for healthier eating habits (that doesn’t mean I don’t treat myself with sweets anymore!), drink lots of juices and eat veggies, even broccoli! Was never a fan, but hey, it contains Vitamin C!
What about you? Is Vitamin C a regular in your skin care routine or diet?
Coming up… why OST Vitamin C Serum tops my list of skincare must-have?