Vitamin C – Our Hero!

Vitamin C is like “Liquid Gold” for our skin.

This fabulous Vitamin is an essential nutrient required for the growth and repair of tissues in all parts of the body. Including the skin. Our body can not create vitamin C, so we rely on topical application and dietary intake for our vitamin C supply.

Vitamin C also known as L-ascorbic acid is an extremely powerful antioxidant. It acts like a warrior shield for our face that fights off horrible collagen destroying free radicals such as UV rays, pollution, smoke and stress. Unfortunately when these free radicals target the skin they break down and damage the dermis and negatively alter the cells DNA which debilitates the skins outer barrier and function. NOT GOOD!

This is when the powerhouse antioxidant Vitamin C comes into action to save the day!!! Woooohoooo

HOW ………..

  • It aids in the production of collagen synthesis for firmer more radiant skin. Which slows down the visible signs of ageing.
  • Boosts brightening and clarity in the skin – strengthening our barrier which will stay more hydrated and plump.
  • Helps to protect cells from UV and external environmental damage by preventing cell mutations. Keeping our collagen and elastin safe.
  • Potent wound healing and anti-inflammatory.
  • Assists in the prevention and reduction of age spots and hyperpigmentation.

Vitamin C is best applied in the morning  prior to sunscreen application, these two together make the best skincare duo.

Why? – Vitamin C can boost your SPF efficiency and SPF can help prevent the vitamin C from oxidising on the skin. BINGO!

Here are two of my favourite Vitamin C products  I would recommend.

                       Jan Marini – C-ESTA Serum

Great for all skin types, C-ESTA Serum is a powerful antioxidant cocktail, featuring lipid soluble Vitamin C, DMAE and Hyaluronic acid shown to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and uneven skin texture.

Synergie Skin – SupremaC+

Featuring 20% CMF Triacid ComplexTM (a blend of the most stable forms of ascorbic, ferulic, and mandelic acid offering superior protection from solar and environmental damage). SupremaC+ revives lacklustre skin for optimal radiance and hydration levels, brightens uneven skin tone, addresses signs of pigmentation at the source, and provides a rich dose of antioxidants to protect against free radical damage.

What blend of sunscreen is best for you?

UVA and UVB rays from the sun are the number one cause for premature ageing of the skin.

UVA rays make up around 95% of the UV exposure which usually results in tanning. This ultraviolet radiation penetrates deeply into the layers of the dermis which break down and destroys our collagen and elastin fibres.

UVB rays contributes to around 5% of the harmful UV exposer which will affect the skin at very high intensity. This will manifest on the top layer of the skin creating sunburn.

UV ‘A’ is for Ageing UV ‘B’ is for Burning. The two UV radiations combined will cause serious damage to the skin by causing cell mutation (cell damage).

Physical Sunscreens

Made from natural minerals from the earth such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. This form of sunscreen works by sitting on top of the skin and providing a physical barrier to harmful UV rays.

Zinc oxide is the only sunscreen ingredient that will protect from both UVA and UVB rays.

Chemical Sunscreens

A cocktail of ingredients and filters which absorb into the skin that turn the UV rays into heat via a chemical reaction.

When choosing suncream remember

  • It is crucial to wear a sunscreen that offers ‘broad spectrum’ as this will protect you from both UVA and UVB rays.
  • SPF – Only measures the UVB protection nothing to do with UVA.
  • The PA rating measures the UVA protection – The higher the PA value the better UVA protection Eg PA++++.
  • Buy a sunscreen you will definitely wear on a daily basis. If you don’t you are letting the UVA radiation damage your collagen and elasticity. All your other serums you are putting on your skin will not work to their best ability.

                                Synergie Skin – ÜberZinc (SPF 15 / PA+++)

ÜberZinc (SPF 15 / PA+++) is a hydrating moisturiser formulated with 21% pure zinc oxide offering broad spectrum UVA and UVB solar protection. The non-comedogenic formula does not clog pores and has added pure green tea for its potent antioxidant properties.

Jan Marini – antioxidant Daily Face chemical sunscreen.

Jan Marini antioxidant Daily Face chemical sunscreen. This luxurious, invisible and weightless formula is the ultimate in daily wearability. Enhanced with antioxidants, this fast- absorbing and cosmetically elegant ‘Daily Face Protectant’ features microscopic oil-absorbing         particles for additional oil control, making it perfect for wear with or without makeup.