beauty
Vitamin C:
THE FREE RADICAL FIGHTER Written by Kathryn O’Hara
An emerging powerhouse in the age fighting
arena is Vitamin C. We are all familiar with the concept that Vitamin C can help our bodies battle colds or the flu, but applied topically, those same properties can increase collagen production, brighten the complexion, repair damaged skin function and support overall health of the skin. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that reduces the effect of free radicals in your skin. A free radical is an atom that is unstable and highly reactive. To visualize the effect of free radicals is to imagine molecules in your skin engaging in a vicious game of dodgeball, careening around, crashing into other molecules, creating more action, reaction and mayhem in the process. Free radicals can be created by UV rays and environmental toxins as well as the blue light emitted by electronic devices. Free radical damage is evidenced by hyperpigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles, dull skin and discoloration. An antioxidant 26 sep • oct 2021
such as Vitamin C works by reducing or neutralizing the production of free radicals which in turn supports the regeneration of healthy cells. In addition to its antioxidant benefits, Vitamin C is acidic which stimulates collagen and elastin, the protein fibers that plump and firm the skin and encouraging that production adds to the skins’ youthful appearance. Vitamin C contains an ingredient that inhibits melanin production. Melanin is the pigmentation property of skin that can lead to discoloration and age spots. Vitamin C helps to lighten those dreaded age spots without altering the natural pigmentation of your complexion. Pure Vitamin C as L-ascorbic acid is the most effective type of C used in skincare. It is a natural form, easily recognized and utilized by your body. But Vitamin C derivatives such as sodium ascorbyl phosphate, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate or tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate are also good
