The skin is a complex organ. There are so many ingredients that target its certain functions, not to mention a person’s unique genetics, lifestyle factors and physical environment, that it can be hard to keep them all straight. What works for one person’s routine could have very different results for someone else.
That said, there are two ingredients that offer such powerful benefits we can say with confidence that any skin type is sure to drink them up. And when these two ingredients are used together -- bam! The skin synergy is off the charts. Learn why that is, below.
Vitamin C: The Skin Superhero
Surely, you’ve heard that vitamin C is a powerhouse nutrient for the skin. But do you know why?
Vitamin C is known to stimulate the synthesis of collagen, as well as limit the damage caused by UV radiation. While it doesn’t actually absorb UV rays (therefore, it’s not a sunscreen), vitamin C is an antioxidant, which means it protects against the formation of free radicals.
As for physical implications, this ability of vitamin C to limit free radicals means that the skin can better heal and repair itself. Wrinkles won’t be as noticeable. The increased synthesis of collagen and elastin helps skin to retain its bouncy, youthful appearance. Vitamin C also limits melanin production, making it effective for treating dark spots and any areas of hyperpigmentation.
What to look for:
To maximize the availability of vitamin C, try using it in a serum, which delivers a higher concentration of active ingredients than a cleanser or moisturizer. There are many forms of vitamin C used in skincare products and the most respected is ascorbic acid, or L-ascorbic acid. Results from ascorbic acid are seen quicker than other forms of vitamin C, but the downside is that it’s less stable to light or oxygen. You’ll frequently be advised to use certain products from as soon as one month, to within six or several months of opening, and to store them in the fridge. Ascorbic acid also tends to cause some irritation at the start of use, including photosensitivity. This is why it’s a great idea to pair it with some sunscreen.
Ohlolly Suggests:
Dr. Ceuracle x Deesse Special Set
Another form of vitamin C is ascorbyl glucoside, which can take a bit longer to show results but is milder on the skin. If you’ve never used vitamin C before or have very sensitive skin, this is a beneficial form to start with.
Ohlolly Suggests:
Goodal Green Tangerine Vita C Serum
Both forms are great when combined with Vitamin E for an added antioxidant boost.
SPF: Simply the Best
Yes, this is another reminder that the best anti-aging tip is UV protection. Prolonged sun exposure damages the skin on every level. It’s a mutagen and classified as a “non-specific damaging agent,” which means it disrupts DNA and both causes and fosters tumor growth.
UVA rays penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin, disturbing the connective tissue to gradually lose elasticity. (We know what this leads to: wrinkles and sagging skin!) UVB rays stimulate cell proliferation in the outer layer of the skin, burning it, drying it out and making it coarse and leather-like over time. Wearing daily SPF is the only ingredient to work immediately to prevent this kind of damage, keeping skin soft, smooth and adequately hydrated.
Ohlolly Suggests:
Missha All Around Safe Block Essence Sun Milk
Sioris You Are My Shining Sunscreen
Huxley Stay Sun Safe Sun Cream
Better Together: Vitamin C + SPF
Important Fact: Frequent exposure to oxidative stress, whether in the form of pollutants or the sun (UV rays), depletes vitamin C. This is why wearing the two together, vitamin C + SPF, gives you added bang for your skin care buck.
When we wear sunscreen as the final step in our skincare routine, we prevent UV rays from damaging the skin, which in turn increases the concentration of vitamin C available to prevent free radical formation and boost collagen production. According to one 2013 study*, SPF cannot block all UV-induced free radical formation on its own. Using it along with vitamin C enables further antioxidant protection, which lowers oxidative stress and creates a healthier internal environment. It’s a synergistic relationship that leads to brighter, glowing skin.
Voila! What other questions do you have about skincare ingredients? Email us your questions at hello@ohlolly.com anytime!
*https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3673383/
Written by Ziza @ Ohlolly
