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Behaviour

Use topical vitamin C for skin protection and repair

Description

Dermatologist-backed: Vitamin C serums improve fine lines by 15% and boost brightness by 20% in 12 weeks. The research-proven formula for younger-looking skin.

Why we recommend this

  • A controlled Duke University study found that vitamin C provides photoprotection that sunscreen alone cannot, reducing UV-related free radical damage by up to 40-60%
  • Research in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology demonstrates that topical vitamin C increases collagen synthesis by up to 8-fold in human skin fibroblasts
  • Clinical trials published in Dermatologic Surgery show a 60-day course of 10% vitamin C treatment significantly reduced hyperpigmentation and improved skin texture
  • Vitamin C formulations with vitamin E and ferulic acid remain stable 4x longer and provide 8x the photoprotection compared to vitamin C alone (Journal of Investigative Dermatology)
  • Systematic review of 31 studies in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology confirmed vitamin C's efficacy for photoaging, with the most consistent results from formulations between 10-20% concentration

Usage

Apply 3-4 drops of 10-20% L-ascorbic acid serum with pH 3.5-4.0, containing vitamin E and ferulic acid as stabilisers

Timing

Apply to clean, dry skin in the morning before moisturiser and sunscreen; wait 5 minutes before applying next product

Important notes

  • Test on a small skin area for 24 hours before applying to your entire face to check for sensitivity
  • Look for serums in opaque, airless containers to ensure stability - vitamin C degrades when exposed to light and air
  • If you experience tingling, this is normal; stinging or burning indicates irritation and you should discontinue use
  • Start with a lower concentration (10%) if you have sensitive skin, applying every other day until tolerance builds
  • Store in a cool, dark place (some formulations can be refrigerated) to maintain potency
  • Do not mix directly with niacinamide (use at different times of day) as they may reduce each other's effectiveness