Not All Vitamin C Is Born Equal

It’s fair to say that vitamin C has had a MOMENT in skincare in the last five years. It’s not surprising, given the fact that this powerful antioxidant has many skin benefits, including helping to brighten and protect the skin (more on that coming up). Vitamin C is pretty complex when it comes to skin formulations, as we’re about to reveal. It’s important to note that not all vitamin C products out there are equal. Read on to find out why!

What’s so great about Vitamin C?

Let’s dive into a few reasons why we recommend incorporating vitamin C into most skincare routines. This multifunctional powerhouse ingredient is a major antioxidant, protecting your skin against free radical damage from environmental aggressors like pollution and UV rays. It works seamlessly at both the surface level and deep down, to protect skin DNA for optimal cellular health. Additionally, it supports the body's natural collagen production, improving the appearance of lines, wrinkles, and acne scarring. If you're concerned about discoloration or dull skin (who isn't?), vitamin C is a fantastic active ingredient to add to your routine, as it helps even out skin tone and brightening. As an anti-inflammatory ingredient, vitamin C aids in combating the signs of aging, given the close link between aging and inflammation in the body. Furthermore, vitamin C supports the skin's natural production of hydration in the long term, contributing to keeping the skin in optimal condition.

Does that sound great? YES! But we must caution restraint – don’t just grab any old product labeled vitamin C and expect to reap all these benefits. We must delve into the science first...

White coats at the ready!

The body relies exclusively on the purest, water-soluble form of vitamin C—L-ascorbic acid. To experience the benefits mentioned earlier, the clinically validated level is 15%. While fat-soluble vitamin C remains stable in formulations and is present in certain products, the body cannot use it, so steer clear!  You may have heard about vitamin C products deteriorating rapidly, and that's entirely true. L-ascorbic acid is likely to oxidize if exposed to water, air, or light; it will turn brown and, in terrible news, become ineffective! Some products may start oxidizing shortly after opening, making large bottles of vitamin C serum a no-go. Some skincare companies offer powdered vitamin C that you can mix into a serum at home to prevent oxidation. The only trouble is that it's impossible to achieve the clinically validated percentage of 15% once it's mixed.

So, what's the solution? Well, our ultra-specialist research and development team has it! They created the now multi-award-winning serum, EverActive C&E® + Peptide, the pioneering vitamin C serum that solves all these formulation challenges. This unique serum, distributed in three, UV-protective 15mL vials, is rich in nourishing vitamin E and infused with Matrixyl® Synthe' 6®, a potent bio-memetic peptide proven to support collagen and hydration. Now, you might be asking, where's the big C? Well, the big-hitting magic comes in the cap! Cleverly suspended above the serum in an air, light, and watertight cap are 2.7 grams of crystallized L-ascorbic acid—the precise dose needed for a 15% vitamin C serum! Our engineering team went to town on this one, ensuring that the cap flap opens fully when activated and stays in place while you mix the serum and crystals.

You get to embrace your inner chef/witch/skincare scientist as you compress the cap to release the crystals into the serum, shake for 60-90 seconds, and replace the cap with a professional-grade pipette. We love a pipette, and this version accurately dispenses the perfect-sized droplet every time. Each morning, simply press 3-5 drops into your face and neck after cleansing and exfoliating. Your skin gets clinically proven results in every drop.

Seasonal Vitamin C

The big secret is that vitamin C is NOT seasonal; you can use it year-round! Its protective benefits are particularly helpful in the summer. Vitamin C is a key ingredient in fighting pigmentation, making it your go-to post-summer savior. 

As we enter the cooler months, the environment will soon undergo changes. As temperatures drop and heaters kick in, our skin will likely suffer, becoming dry or dehydrated and appearing dull. Once again, turn to vitamin C for antioxidant support, extra hydration, and that radiant glow.

Your skin pro will guide you through incorporating EverActive C&E® + Peptide into your daily routine and will provide you with all the advice and help you need to ensure you achieve those skin goals! Don't delay—boost your skin with a potent dose of 15% L-ascorbic acid and get ready to explain why you have that summer glow even as the weather cools down!