Benefits Of A Vitamin C Serum

Vitamin C is often featured in multivitamins and other oral supplements. Its benefits aren't just related to your internal organs. You can also find it in skin serums, designed to be spread on the surface of your skin as a topical treatment. Such serums have several perks for your skin, and regular use can lead to skin that's healthier and glows with its own natural beauty.

Stimulates Collagen Production

Topical applications of vitamin C can help encourage the natural production of collagen in your skin, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center. Collagen acts as a form of natural protein, and a lack of collagen in your skin can contribute to wrinkles. Vitamin C serums may thus help soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkling in your skin's surface.

Inhibits Pigmentation

Your skin cells may become uneven in color, forming discolorations such as age spots, as they're exposed to the sun. This can leave you with an uneven, splotchy skin tone. Topical vitamin C, in a serum or cream, may help fade such skin discolorations and brighten your overall complexion, according to skincare expert Paula Begoun in her book, "Don't Go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Me." She reports that it may inhibit the creation of pigments, especially in serums with vitamin C in concentrations of 5 percent or more.

Reduces Free Radical Activity

Vitamin C works as a potent antioxidant and can help reduce the effects of free radicals in your skin. Free radicals may lead to signs of premature aging, reports the New Zealand Dermatological Society, and may come from a variety of sources, such as smoking tobacco products or exposing your skin to the sun's ultraviolet rays.

Moisturization

Vitamin C serums aren't formulated just with ascorbic acid or the various other forms of vitamin C. The vitamin complex is typically mixed into a conditioning solution formulated with moisturizing ingredients such as glycerin or silicone. Such ingredients help to hydrate your skin cells, improving the skin's natural moisture barrier and boosting its overall appearance and health.