Vitamin C – properties, application in cosmetics and cosmetology

General information about the vitamin

The official name of the component is ascorbic acid. There are 2 forms of acid:

active L-ascorbic acid;
inactive D-ascorbic acid.

When a substance breaks down, it turns into an inactive form. Therefore, it is important that preparations and cosmetics containing vitamin C are stored correctly.

Ascorbic acid was first isolated in 1928 by chemist Albert Szent-Gyorgyi, and already in 1933 mass production of the synthetic vitamin began. Pharmacists of that time had high hopes for ascorbic acid. Interestingly, they were associated not with the substance’s ability to support immunity, but with the antioxidant effect of the component. Therefore, ascorbic acid is included in cosmetics for aging skin.

You can compensate for the lack of vitamin C by eating as much citrus fruits or kiwi, red pepper or black currants, and other vegetables or fruits as possible. Foods rich in beneficial acids and cosmetics with vitamin C will help achieve an antioxidant effect. And you won’t get sick in the off-season!

How to use vitamin C

Choose the vitamin C product format that seems most convenient and effective to you. It can be either a serum or an emulsion, a mask or a cream.
Before use, be sure to make sure that you do not have an allergic reaction to ascorbic acid. If, after applying the product, redness, itching or a rash appears on your wrist, it means that products with vitamin C are definitely not suitable for you or you have chosen a product with a component concentration that is too high for your body. In order to reduce the risk of irritation, opt for jars with a 5-10% concentration of vitamin - this is quite enough for effective care.
It is better to apply products with ascorbic acid in the morning, so their effect on the skin will be even more effective. This will increase your skin's antioxidant activity and help you glow all day long.
Products with vitamin C can be safely used every day. You will quickly notice that your dermis looks more well-groomed, and your complexion is rich and even.

Cosmetological properties

Ascorbic acid is an antioxidant. But what exactly does it give? The list of beneficial effects is impressive:

reduces the effects of free radicals;
protects against the harmful effects of sunlight;
slows down the aging of the body;
makes the skin more elastic;
evens out complexion;
reduces the number of wrinkles and their depth;
eliminates age spots;
helps fight acne more effectively;
moisturizes the skin in all layers;
normalizes pH;
improves immunity (including local);
stimulates collagen production;
gives shine.

The beneficial effect of ascorbic acid is directly related to the effect of free radicals on the body. This is the name given to unstable oxygen atoms that need to be stabilized. To do this, they react with the cells of the body, causing them harm. The first to suffer is the genetic material. New cells inherit the “breakage”, so serious disruptions can occur in the body. This applies to the skin, other organs and systems.

That's when antioxidants come into play. These substances transfer the electrons needed to stabilize free radicals so that harmful oxidation does not occur. But even antioxidants are not a panacea. The use of vitamin creams will not smooth out the skin completely, but will help slow down the natural aging of the epidermis, so antioxidant cosmetics should not be written off.

The beneficial effects of vitamin C on hair and nails are due to the fact that ascorbic acid improves the process of keratin production. And due to the good moisturizing abilities of the vitamin, hair follicles receive more nutrition, so hair grows faster.

A beauty blogger expresses her opinion on the use of ascorbic acid in face and body care in the video:

Features of ascorbic acid

Vitamin C is necessary for the health and youth of the skin, since only if the concentration of this substance is normal in the body, the correct synthesis of its own collagen fibers occurs, maintaining the elasticity of the dermis and smoothing out wrinkles. In addition, ascorbic acid helps cells resist the negative effects of sunlight and normalizes all cellular functions.

You can buy vitamin C freely in any pharmacy chain without any prescription and for a very modest price. Ascorbic acid is sold in the form of round tablets, white powder or in liquid form in ampoules.

Vitamin C is necessary for the normal functioning of the entire body, so it is necessary to constantly ensure that foods with a significant content of this substance are present in the diet every day. With a deficiency of the element, many tissues begin to deplete, including connective tissues, the risk of bleeding and the development of various diseases increases, and the condition of the dermis also worsens.

If the body receives the required amount of vitamins, primarily ascorbic acid, it is much better able to resist the damaging effects of elements such as free radicals. As a result, the aging process slows down, various damage to the dermis heals faster, and the epidermis becomes smooth and clean.

In fact, many women call this simple and affordable substance an excellent home care product that allows them to maintain the beauty of the dermis, its freshness and youth.

Indications and contraindications

Be sure to try vitamin C care products if you have wrinkles, poor complexion, hyperpigmentation, acne or other imperfections. Vitamin creams and serums can be used for all skin types, but the vitamin works best in anti-aging care.

Despite all the benefits of ascorbic acid, fortified cosmetics have contraindications:

It is not recommended for use by girls with very sensitive skin to avoid irritation and itching;
Those who spend a lot of time under the sun should not buy daytime cosmetics with ascorbic acid.

A special study was conducted, the results of which are surprising. If you apply a product with vitamin C to your face and immediately go out into the sun, there will be no antioxidant effect. On the contrary, palmitates, formed from ascorbic acid, accelerate the formation of free radicals.

Therefore, residents of hot, sunny regions should definitely use products with SPF filters or apply serums or creams in the evenings.

Rules for using ascorbic acid for facial skin

Despite the fact that vitamin C is considered safe, there are several rules for its use, consider them:

for the best effect, it is recommended to use ascorbic acid along with vitamins such as A and E;
To restore skin elasticity and a healthy appearance, it is recommended to make masks based on fresh fruits and vegetables. Of course, use those products that contain the highest vitamin C content;
It is better to purchase the vitamin in the form of a sugar-free powder, but if you can’t find one, then regular children’s ascorbic acid will not do any harm.

Indications and contraindications

Cosmetologists recommend using vitamin C:

with skin fatigue;
when pores narrow;
for those with problematic skin types (pimples, blackheads). Relieves inflammation and redness;
to give a fresh look.

From all of the above, it becomes clear that vitamin C is an excellent assistant for facial skin care. The use of acid in its pure form will not bring the desired effect, so it is very important to combine it with other components.

In addition to its positive properties, ascorbic acid has a number of contraindications:

individual intolerance to components;
in case of illness - diabetes mellitus (take with extreme caution and under the supervision of a doctor);
for kidney stones;
if there is a violation of the metabolism of iron-containing pigments in the body;
if there are various ulcers, wounds or cracks on the skin;
It is not advisable to use vitamin C if varicose veins appear.

Forms of use of ascorbic acid for the face

Pharmaceutical companies produce two forms of acid - in ampoules and tablets. We propose to consider each type in more detail.

The first and most common form of release is in liquid form in ampoules (5 or 10% solution). You can purchase them at any pharmacy branch.
When caring for sensitive skin, the solution must be diluted with water in a one to one ratio. For other skin types, the product can be used in its pure form. It is enough to moisten a cotton pad with the solution and wipe the necessary areas of the skin with it. There is no need to wash it off; after it dries completely, simply apply cream to the skin for daily use.
The course of health procedures is 60 days. The solution can be applied daily.
Ascorbic acid in tablets is used to add to homemade masks, and can also be used in its pure form. To add to the finished composition, two tablets of acid are required, crushed to a powder and dissolved.
Another way to use acid is to prepare a mask only from tablets. Turn 4 ascorbic acids into powder, add literally 1 - 2 teaspoons of water, stir. You should have a mushy consistency. The ascorbic acid face mask is completely ready. Apply it to the skin, leave for a quarter of an hour and rinse your face with cool water.

Composition of vitamin cosmetics

There are several types of ascorbic acid that are used to produce cosmetic products. Modified forms of the vitamin can achieve special effects, so be sure to check the ingredients before purchasing.

The following types of vitamin C are usually used in cosmetology:

Sodium ascorbyl phosphate (SAP). The most common inexpensive form of the vitamin. But the problem is that SAP does not turn into ascorbic acid, so there is little sense in using such a component. Don't expect whitening of age spots, evening out complexion, reducing wrinkles, or improving collagen synthesis. This is just good hydration and nutrition.
Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate (MAP). When it comes into contact with the skin surface, the substance is converted into ascorbic acid and is quickly absorbed, affecting all layers. Helps fight hyperpigmentation and insufficient collagen production, but products with MAP do not protect well from ultraviolet radiation.
Ascorbyl palmitate. This form does not penetrate the skin very well, and is also quickly destroyed under the influence of external factors. But ascorbyl palmitate evens out complexion, removes age spots, and normalizes collagen synthesis.
Ascorbyl tetra isopalmitate. Active form of the vitamin. Converts into ascorbic acid, absorbs well, whitens, evens out complexion.
Ascorbyl 2-phosphate 6-palmitate. It has the same properties as ascorbyl tetra isopalmitate.
3-O-ethyl ascorbate. Effective only in eliminating hyperpigmentation.

All listed components are ranked by popularity. The cost of a cosmetic product directly depends on the type of vitamin. MAP and ascorbyl palmitate are the best options, but some skin types respond better to other forms of vitamin C.

Before you buy the first fortified cosmetics you come across, pay attention to important nuances:

Concentration. Scientific research confirms that even very small amounts of the vitamin work well. But creams and serums with 20% of the active substance are considered effective. No more is needed, otherwise there will be irritation. For girls with sensitive epidermis, it is better to stop at 10–15%.
pH. This point is important because ascorbic acid is an acid. It is necessary that the cosmetic product has a pH of 2.8–3.4. If it is higher, the vitamin will be destroyed, and if it is less, the cream will cause allergies.
Stabilizers. Vitamin C is unstable and quickly degrades; the serum will be of no use if it has the wrong composition or was stored in poor conditions. To avoid this, vitamin E or ferulic acid is added to the composition.

Considering the instability of ascorbic acid, it is not surprising that good products with the vitamin are not cheap. But it is better to buy a good serum to get the desired result than to apply an inexpensive one that has no effect.

Vitamin C for the face - beneficial properties

antioxidant property

When used correctly, ascorbic acid protects the skin from photoaging, prevents the appearance of wrinkles and skin aging,

Cosmetics release forms

Manufacturers produce many different products with ascorbic acid:

creams;
gels;
serums;
masks;
tonics;
sprays;
lotions.

It is difficult to say which option is the most effective. The listed products are used at different stages of care. It is ideal if you use vitaminized cosmetics from the same line.

The standard care regimen begins with washing. Afterwards, you need to wipe your face with tonic or lotion, then apply serum. Depending on the type or specific needs of the epidermis, you can use a cream or gel after the serum. A vitamin spray is used to moisturize throughout the day, and masks provide vitamins and other beneficial substances. You can use masks 1-2 times a week.

Ascorbic peeling: what you need to know about the procedure

Skin cleansing with ascorbic acid can be done at any time of the year. There are no restrictions for visiting the solarium and sunbathing.
Ascorbic acid is not classified as aggressive , but you should not abuse chemical ascorbic peeling. For oily skin, 2 treatments per week are recommended, and for normal skin (with caution for dry skin) – no more than one cleansing per week.
The composition for ascorbic peeling is usually applied in the form of a compress (gauze soaked in a solution of ascorbic acid). It is recommended to refresh the compress every two to three minutes, preventing the mask from drying out. After 10-15 minutes, the cleansing composition is washed off with water, lightly treating the skin with a medium-hard sponge.
Ascorbic acid (peeling based on it) slightly irritates the skin; slight tingling and slight redness of the face after the procedure are considered normal. The discomfort goes away after a few hours.
The result of properly performed peeling is moderate peeling that appears on the skin 2-3 days after the procedure. Dying particles of the epidermis are easily removed with a sponge.

Contraindications to ascorbic peeling are: excessive dryness and inflammation of the skin. Ascorbic peeling is also harmful in case of violations of the integrity of the skin - scratches, abrasions, cuts.

About packaging

We have already mentioned above the instability of vitamin C. It is easily destroyed under the influence of sunlight or other external factors. If you see a serum or cream with ascorbic acid in a transparent bottle, you should not buy this product. The vitamin has long since disappeared from there.

Choose cosmetics in opaque jars or bottles made of tinted glass. If you buy a spray, look for an option with a special airless sprayer. Fortified products are the very case when packaging is very important. Be sure to pay attention to it, otherwise buy a pacifier.

Face Serums

This type of cosmetics has become particularly popular lately. A good serum improves the effect of the cream, helps slow down the evaporation of fluid from the skin layers, and nourishes the epidermis with useful substances.

The rating includes the best serums with ascorbic acid, according to customers.

Vichy - LiftActiv

from 1420 ₽

The cost of 1 ml is 142 rubles.

General characteristics:

country of origin: France;
package volume - 10 ml.

The serum from a well-known French manufacturer contains 15% vitamin C. This concentration is enough to even out the complexion, reduce the number of age spots, and improve collagen production. With regular use, a lifting effect is noticeable; the product normalizes the functioning of the sebaceous glands, making the skin elastic and smooth. Added neohesperidin, maritime pine polyphenol, vitamin E, hyaluronic acid. The serum is suitable for daily use.

Pros:

absorbs well;
contains optimal concentration of vitamin C;
already after 10 days the anti-aging effect is noticeable;
evens out facial tone and removes signs of fatigue;
Available in a darkened bottle with a convenient pipette.

Minuses:

an unpleasant odor appears when applied;
small volume.

Vitamin Source C-20

from 1320 ₽

The cost of 1 ml is 44 rubles.

General characteristics:

Manufacturer: Circle;
country of origin: South Korea;
package volume - 30 ml.

The Korean brand product contains an increased concentration of vitamin C - 20%. Girls with sensitive skin should use the product with caution, otherwise allergies may occur. The serum has a light peeling effect, which evens out the complexion, removes dead skin cells from the epidermis, making it smooth and soft. Suitable for anti-aging care. Improves collagen synthesis, normalizes the functioning of the sebaceous glands. Can be used daily.

Pros:

spreads well over the surface;
contains a high concentration of vitamin;
absorbs quickly;
convenient bottle with pipette;
nice smell;
Suitable for multi-stage Korean care.

Minuses:

contains alcohol;
sticky.

InstaNatural – Vitamin C Serum

InstaNatural, Vitamin C, Hyaluronic & Ferulic Acid Serum, Anti-Aging, 1 fl oz. (30 ml.)

★★★★☆

from 1,425 ₽

More details

The cost of 1 ml is 38.6 rubles.

General characteristics:

country of production - USA;
package volume - 30 ml.

The serum is available in different volumes: 5 (sample) or 30 ml. The product has a rich composition. It contains not only vitamin E, but also sea buckthorn oil, ferulic and hyaluronic acids, as well as plant extracts. The product is not tested on animals and is suitable for vegans. The active components of the serum nourish, moisturize, eliminate pigmentation, and ferulic acid protects against harmful external factors. The product can be used daily and is suitable for multi-stage care.

Pros:

natural composition;
Suitable for different types;
high concentration of vitamin E;
light peeling effect;
normalizes the functioning of the sebaceous glands, moisturizes, nourishes;
nice smell;
spreads easily and is quickly absorbed.

Minuses:

It caused allergies in some.

Azelique – Serumpidity Age Refining Vitamin C Facial Serum

Azelique, Serumdipity, Anti-Aging Vitamin C Facial Serum, 1 fl oz (30 ml)

★★★★☆

from 1,596 ₽

More details

The cost of 1 ml is 43.4 rubles.

General characteristics:

country of production - USA;
package volume - 30 ml.

The manufacturer Azelique produces serums with a natural composition. The cosmetic product contains vitamin C, plant extracts that soften and nourish. Ascorbyl phosphate is not in first place in the composition, but this is a plus: a small concentration of ascorbic acid is suitable for caring for sensitive skin. But you shouldn’t expect a strong anti-aging or lifting effect from Serumpidity. The serum is suitable for daily multi-stage care.

Pros:

natural composition;
improves collagen synthesis;
suitable for sensitive skin;
can be used by women of all ages;
helps remove hyperpigmentation;
evens out complexion;
It is used sparingly.

Minuses:

unpleasant odor;
may pull off the top layer.

Avalon Organics - Intense Defense Facial Serum

Avalon Organics, Intense Defense, Vitamin C Facial Serum, 1 fl oz (30 ml)

★★★★☆

from 1,561 ₽

More details

The cost of 1 ml is 42.4 rubles.

General characteristics:

country of production - USA;
package volume - 30 ml.

Unlike all of the above serums, the product from Avalon Organics is not available in a darkened glass bottle with a dropper, but in a plastic bottle with a dispenser. This is convenient and allows you to keep the serum fresh longer, since oxygen does not enter the jar. The cosmetic product contains vitamin C, squalane, natural oils (sunflower, cocoa, borage seeds, lemon, orange, bergamot, flax), as well as plant extracts (aloe, white tea, chamomile, lavender, olive leaves). The serum is suitable for all types, but girls with oily epidermis should not use it often: the product can clog pores.

Pros:

suitable for daily use;
moisturizes, nourishes;
improves collagen production;
evens out tone;
smells good;
easily distributed, quickly absorbed;
can be used as a base for makeup.

Minuses:

very liquid, quickly consumed.

Mask recipes

There are many recipes for vitamin C masks that are easy to make at home.

For wrinkles

Ingredients:

banana - 1 pc.;
sour cream - 1 tbsp. l.;
granulated sugar - 0.5 tsp;
cocoa powder (not instant, but natural) - 0.5 tsp;
10% ascorbic acid solution - 1 ampoule.

Mash the banana thoroughly and mix it with sour cream, cocoa and sugar, let stand for 15 minutes and pour the solution into the mixture. The ampoule cannot be opened in advance. This is done before the infusion. Mix the mixture well again and apply to your face as a mask. After 15 minutes, rinse with water at a comfortable temperature.

The mask tones the skin, smoothes wrinkles, and prevents aging.

For acne

Ingredients:

green cosmetic clay - 1 tbsp. l.;
pink cosmetic clay - 1 tbsp. l.;
low-fat kefir - 2 tbsp. l.;
some mineral water;
granulated sugar - 10 g;
10% vitamin C – 1 ampoule.

You should mix green and pink clay, add a little mineral water to get a mass with a consistency reminiscent of rich sour cream. Add kefir, sugar and mix. Let stand for 5 minutes and pour ascorbic acid into the mixture. Quickly mix the mixture and apply to the face. Wait 10 minutes and rinse with water.

Regular use of the mask leads to a reduction in inflammation and acne.

For pigment spots

Ingredients:

low-fat cottage cheese - 0.5 tbsp. l.;
black tea infusion - 1 tbsp. l.;
ascorbic acid solution - 0.5 tsp;
sea buckthorn oil - 0.5 tsp.

You should combine all the ingredients together, beat using a blender, and apply to areas with age spots. Wait 20 minutes and rinse with water.

As a result of regular use of the mask, the skin brightens and age spots become less visible.

Around eyes

Ingredients:

10% ascorbic acid solution - 1 ampoule;
natural yogurt without added sugar - 1 tbsp. l.;
granulated sugar - 3 tsp;
neroli oil - 2 drops.

Mix yogurt with sugar and let the mixture brew for 15 minutes. The sugar should be completely dissolved in the yogurt. Add oil, pour in ascorbic acid and mix. Apply to a cotton sponge, which is applied under the eyes. For convenience, the sponge is pre-cut into 2 semicircles.

Face creams

Cream is the main product for care. You can do without serums or masks, but not without it. For the best effect, we recommend buying creams and serums from the same line. This is a guarantee that the components of cosmetic products will not conflict with each other and will enhance each other.

The rating includes the best creams with vitamin C, according to customers.

Avalon Organics - Intense Defense Renewal Cream

Avalon Organics, Intense Defense, Vitamin C Repair Cream, 2 oz (57 g)

★★★★☆

from 1,346 ₽

More details

The cost of 1 g is 19.2 rubles.

General characteristics:

country of production - USA;
packaging volume - 57 g.

The cream is part of the Intense Defense with Vitamin C line. Contains a whole list of natural ingredients: oils (shea, sunflower, borage, flax, olive), extracts (arnica, calendula, white tea, chamomile, lemon). The product moisturizes and nourishes, suitable for sensitive epidermis. But due to the large amount of oils in the composition, it should not be used for enlarged pores, otherwise comedones or pimples will occur. Others can use the cream daily.

Pros:

contains many natural extracts;
suitable for different ages and skin types;
pleasant consistency;
easily distributed, quickly absorbed;
suitable for care in the cold season;
pleasant orange scent.

Minuses:

some found it too thick and greasy.

Source Naturals - Skin Eternal

Source Naturals, Skin Eternal Cream, 56.7 g

★★★★☆

from 1,339 ₽

More details

The cost of 1 g is 19.1 rubles.

General characteristics:

country of production - USA;
packaging volume - 57 or 113 g.

Source Naturals has a thick consistency, making it good for nighttime use. Contains vitamin C, lipoic acid, coenzyme Q10, hyaluronic acid. The complex of active substances provides enhanced nutrition and softening; with regular use of the cream, a lifting effect is noticeable, wrinkles are smoothed out, and the epidermis becomes denser and more elastic. The cream can be used daily.

Pros:

carefully selected composition;
distributes well, absorbs quickly;
dries out pimples;
evens out complexion;
accelerates wound healing;
Suitable for different types.

Minuses:

doesn't smell very nice;
contains dimethicone.

Home Health – Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizing Cream

Home Health, Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer with Repairing Hydration Complex, 4 oz (113 g)

★★★★☆

from 1,117 ₽

More details

The cost of 1 g is 8.06 rubles.

General characteristics:

country of production - USA;
packaging volume - 113 g.

The Home Health product is available in large packaging - 113 g each. This amount is enough to care for the face, hands, and décolleté. The main active component of the cream is hyaluronic acid, but this is far from the only active ingredient. The product contains vitamins A and C, natural oils (grape, sunflower, soybean, olive), panthenol, glycerin, aloe extract, green tea. Due to the presence of antiseptic components, it is suitable for caring for problem skin.

Pros:

large volume of packaging;
price;
moisturizes well;
ideal for normal or combination skin;
can be used as a base for makeup;
Suitable for night care.

Minuses:

the jar is not sealed in film, there is no protective membrane;
not a very pleasant smell;
may clog pores.

Byotea - Crema Multiattiva 24 ore

from 1440 ₽

The cost of 1 g is 28 rubles.

General characteristics:

country of origin: Italy;
package volume - 50 ml.

Byotea cream contains vitamin C, aloe juice, propolis, avocado oil. The active components of the product moisturize, and thanks to the improvement of collagen synthesis, the epidermis becomes dense and elastic. The cream well restores the water balance in all layers, improves the regeneration of the epidermis, heals wounds and microcracks. The product can be used daily as a makeup base.

Pros:

Suitable for different types;
reduces hyperpigmentation;
evens out facial tone;
absorbs quickly and does not leave a greasy film;
removes signs of fatigue, refreshes;
anti-aging, lifting effect.

Minuses:

It caused allergies in some.

Proud Mary - Vita C Ampoule Cream

from 1390 ₽

The cost of 1 g is 27.8 rubles.

General characteristics:

country of origin: South Korea;
packaging volume - 50 g.

Korean cream contains 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid - the rarest form of ascorbic acid. This component helps fight hyperpigmentation, but you should not expect a strong anti-aging effect from the cream. The active substance is easily absorbed and improves collagen production. Thanks to this, new wrinkles do not appear, but the cream will not be able to smooth out existing ones. Hyaluronic acid (nourishes and moisturizes), arbutin (brightens, eliminates inflammation) is added to the product.

Pros:

evens out tone;
helps fight hyperpigmentation;
suitable for different ages;
moisturizes, prevents the evaporation of fluid from the skin layers;
contains bioavailable forms of active components;
spreads easily and is quickly absorbed.

Minuses:

there is no pronounced lifting effect.

Cleansers

Cleansing is one of the important stages of facial care. It is important that the foam or gel does not dry out the skin, but does a good job of removing makeup residue and excess sebum. Vitaminized products act as a peeling, not only removing sebum, but also gently exfoliating dead particles.

The rating includes the best products, according to buyers. The list includes scrubs, tonics, and cleansing gels.

Pixi – Vitamin-C Tonic

from 1060 ₽

The cost of 1 ml is 10.6 rubles.

General characteristics:

country of origin: Great Britain;
package volume - 100 ml.

The brightening tonic contains many natural ingredients: extracts of aloe leaves, grapefruit, lemon zest, tangerine, camellia, carrot roots, mint, green tea, as well as vegetable oils. Thanks to the presence of glycerin and hyaluronic acid in the tonic, it moisturizes, aloe soothes, heals wounds, and green tea disinfects and dries out rashes. It contains not only ascorbic acid, but also citrus extracts, so the vitamin effect is more pronounced.

Pros:

cleanses, tones;
no contains alcohol;
suitable for daily use;
does not leave a sticky film;
perfectly absorbed;
nice smell;
There is no burning sensation when applied.

Minuses:

a transparent bottle with a loose lid - this accelerates the destruction of vitamin C.

Now Foods Solutions – Vitamin C & Acai Berry Purifying Toner

Now Foods, Solutions, Cleansing Toner, Vitamin C & Acai, 8 fl oz (237 ml)

★★★★☆

from 545 ₽

More details

The cost of 1 ml is 1.5 rubles.

General characteristics:

country of production - USA;
package volume - 237 ml.

Now Foods tonic consists of 90% natural ingredients. Contains aloe leaf juice, acai extract, olive oil, orange flavor. The tonic contains a vitamin complex of ascorbic acid (C), tocopherol (E), niacinamide (B3). The active components cleanse well, tone, preparing it for the subsequent stages of care. The tonic is suitable for daily use.

Pros:

compound;
eliminates traces of acne, dries out pimples;
moisturizes well and does not leave a feeling of tightness;
smells good;
suitable for all types;
does not cause irritation even for those with sensitive epidermis;
does not leave a greasy or sticky film.

Minuses:

When applied, a tingling sensation is felt and redness may appear.

Avalon Organics - Intense Defense Cleansing Gel

Avalon Organics, Intense Defense with Vitamin C, Cleansing Gel, 251 ml

★★★★☆

from 766 ₽

More details

The cost of 1 ml is 2.4 rubles.

General characteristics:

country of production - USA;
package volume - 251 ml.

Avalon Organics cleansing gel does not contain sulfates, but foams and easily removes makeup residue and other impurities. The product is biodegradable and will not pollute the environment. Contains a whole complex of antioxidants: vitamin C, white tea, lemon bioflavonoids. They remove toxins, stimulating the renewal of epidermal cells. The gel prepares the skin for subsequent care. The product is effective when used with other products from the Avalon Organics vitamin line.

Pros:

contains an antioxidant complex;
does not dry;
contains natural oils;
foams well;
pleasant citrus scent;
Suitable for different types.

Minuses:

After washing, a feeling of tightness may occur.

Derma E - Brightening Cleanser

Derma E, Brightening & Even Skin Tone Cleanser, 6 fl. oz. (175 ml)

★★★★☆

from 1,237 ₽

More details

The cost of 1 ml is 4.6 rubles.

General characteristics:

country of production - USA;
package volume - 175 ml.

Derma E cleansing gel does not contain sulfates or aggressive components. It contains a whole complex of natural ingredients: extracts of licorice, pumpkin leaves, green tea, orange oil. The cleansing components are made from coconut, so they do not dry out the skin and give it a radiant appearance. Vitamin B3 and provitamin B5 are added to the gel, which heal microdamages, dry out pimples, and improve protection from external factors.

Pros:

natural composition;
no sulfates;
foams, cleanses;
not tested on animals;
removes makeup easily;
nice smell;
mattifies;
eliminates hyperpigmentation;
Suitable for different types;
convenient bottle with pump.

Minuses:

uneconomical consumption;
Dries out the skin for some.

Now Foods Solutions - Vitamin C Gentle Scrub

Now Foods, Solutions, Gentle Scrub, Vitamin C & Rice, 4 fl oz (118 ml)

★★★★☆

from 545 ₽

More details

The cost of 1 ml is 3.2 rubles.

General characteristics:

country of production - USA;
package volume - 118 ml.

Now Foods scrub is suitable for all skin types. There are no aggressive cleansing components in the composition; the exfoliating effect is provided by crushed rice bran. They do not injure the skin and do not create microdamages. For an additional peeling effect, vitamin C is added to the product, and nicotinic acid and aloe soothe the epidermis and eliminate inflammation. The scrub is so gentle that it is suitable even for daily use.

Pros:

mild exfoliating ingredients;
contains natural oils, plant extracts;
pleasant texture;
spreads well over the surface;
light massage effect;
Suitable for sensitive skin.

Minuses:

not a very pleasant smell;
For some skin types, this exfoliation is not enough.

Cosmetics for hands and body

Vitamin C is suitable for caring not only for the face, but also for the entire body. Vitaminized creams help remove hyperpigmentation and make the skin soft and elastic. Our rating includes both special hand products and universal creams suitable for the face and other parts of the body.

Porcelana – Rejuvenating Hand Cream

Porcelana, Anti-Aging Hand Cream, 2 fl. oz. (59 ml)

★★★★☆

from 536 ₽

More details

The cost of 1 ml is 7.4 rubles.

General characteristics:

country of production - USA;
package volume - 59 ml.

Porcelana hand cream contains vitamins E and B3, as well as licorice root extract. The active components of the product moisturize, nourish, and help fight hyperpigmentation. The product can be used by women of all ages; the cream effectively eliminates age-related pigmentation. After application, there is no stickiness or feeling of tightness left, the skin of the hands becomes velvety and soft. The cream eliminates peeling, heals damage and cracks.

Pros:

well distributed;
absorbs quickly;
low-fat;
softens, moisturizes;
brightens, evens out color;
the moisturizing effect lasts throughout the day.

Minuses:

Not suitable for very dry skin.

Korres – Antispot Hand Cream

from 800 ₽

The cost of 1 ml is 10.6 rubles.

General characteristics:

country of origin: Greece;
package volume - 75 ml.

Korres cream is designed not only to moisturize and nourish the skin of the hands, but also to eliminate hyperpigmentation. The product contains vitamins C and E, which provide a strong antioxidant effect and slow down the aging process of the hands. The cream contains turmeric extract, provitamin B5, natural almond and shea oils. The product protects the delicate skin of your hands from exposure to ultraviolet rays thanks to SPF filters. The product does not contain silicone, mineral oils, propylene glycol, ethanolamine.

Pros:

natural ingredients in the composition;
pleasant consistency;
eliminates pigment spots (subject to regular use);
has an antioxidant effect and preserves youthful hands;
evens out color;
does not leave a sticky or greasy film and is quickly absorbed.

Minuses:

The moisturizing effect lasts only until the first hand washing.

Bielenda – Face & Body Cream

from 296 ₽

The cost of 1 g is 1.4 rubles.

General characteristics:

country of origin: Poland;
package volume - 200 ml.

The Polish manufacturer produces a universal cream that is suitable for face and body care. The product is packaged in large plastic jars with a screw cap. The product contains vitamin C and orange oil. The active components of the cream smooth the skin, making it soft and elastic. The product is suitable for daily care of any skin type.

Pros:

distributes well, absorbs quickly;
softens;
smells good;
Suitable for whole body care;
does not leave a sticky film;
consistency of thick yogurt.

Minuses:

comes in a transparent jar, so vitamin C quickly evaporates when exposed to light.

Types of vitamins and their benefits for the body

There are 2 types of vitamins that help smooth out wrinkles, and they have their own and individual characteristics in their effects on the body.

Therefore, before using them, it is worth studying in detail their features and principles of influence:

Vitamin A is one of the most important vitamins that helps keep your face fresh, healthy and toned. It is this substance that accelerates the production of collagen, which helps smooth out all the unevenness on the surface of the face. This vitamin also eliminates age spots, soothes inflammation, improves the functioning of the sebaceous glands and helps eliminate irritation and acne on the skin of the face.
The group of B vitamins affects the normalization of the hydrolipid balance, which is responsible for fixing moisture in the cells, and also prevents the possibility of dehydration of the facial skin. Helps with flaking and dry skin. Also, moisturizing the skin with B vitamins helps prevent the early appearance of wrinkles. B vitamins affect rapid cell renewal, which leads to natural rejuvenation.

Vitamins for the purpose of facial rejuvenation should be consumed regularly both with daily food and with the help of various creams and homemade masks, which will include a certain type of vitamins. Only in this case the effectiveness of vitamins will be complete and will contribute to skin rejuvenation.

Vitamin A in facial cosmetology

Vitamin A has a couple of directions of its impact on the health and human body, as well as the quality of its skin, namely:

vitamin A is an excellent antioxidant, which has an effect on strengthening the structure of the skin and increasing its resistance to external irritants and aggressive environments,
Vitamin A helps improve blood circulation, which contributes to better nutrition of all facial cells,
Vitamin A helps restore skin elasticity by neutralizing the effects of free radicals that destroy collagen.

You can use vitamin A, or in other words “retinol acetate,” at home, but you just need to remember that this product in its pure form is a powerful allergen, so it should only be used as an addition to various masks or regular nourishing cream.

Vitamin B 6 in facial cosmetology

B vitamins are an excellent rejuvenating and healing agent that thoroughly cleanses the skin of harmful substances and takes good care of it. This substance is very often used at home as a component of various masks.

There are several types of vitamin B:

B 1 helps in the fight against aging of facial skin and helps smooth out existing wrinkles,
B 2 directs its action to improve complexion, as well as relieve inflammation,
B 6 acts as a protector of the facial skin from the aggressive effects of sunlight and the environment. Thoroughly nourishes the skin while moisturizing it,
At 12, it accelerates blood circulation in the skin, which is a call for rapid skin rejuvenation.

The main secret of this vitamin is that it is very suitable for both oily and dry skin, so almost all women can use creams and masks that contain B vitamins.

According to numerous reviews, masks using vitamin B6 have excellent results, namely:

and sufficiently dry skin is 100% moisturized, while any peeling on the surface of the face disappears,
Almost after the first use of a mask with vitamin B 6, inflammation on the skin goes away and acne decreases,
the skin is smoothed and wrinkles disappear,
pigmentation becomes less noticeable.

Therefore, proper facial care with the addition of vitamins brings the skin into ideal condition and preserves youth for many years.

Ways to use vitamin C at home

Lovers of natural homemade cosmetics can also experience the benefits of ascorbic acid. The advantage of homemade products is that you can find the optimal recipe for your skin or hair type, and you also know exactly what is in the composition (after all, you chose the ingredients yourself).

We have collected the best recipes for skin and hair. The ingredients are simple, anyone can make a vitamin treatment.

For skin

The easiest option for homemade cosmetics with vitamin C is masks. Lotions and creams take a long time to prepare, but masks mix quickly. Below are options suitable for different types of epidermis.

For dry

Ingredients:

vitamins C and E - 1 ampoule each;
orange juice - 2 tsp;
powdered milk - 2 tbsp. l.;
honey - 1 tsp.

To prepare the mask, you should make fresh orange juice instead of using packaged juice.

The recipe is extremely simple:

Powdered milk is mixed with liquid ascorbic acid, orange juice, honey and vitamin E are added.
Mix and apply to face.
If the mixture is too liquid, you can add a little more milk powder.

The mask moisturizes and tones, removes flaking, and does not leave a feeling of tightness.

For fatty

Ingredients:

cottage cheese - 1 tbsp. l.;
strong black tea - 4 tsp;
vitamin C - 1 ampoule;
sea buckthorn oil - 1 tsp.

It’s ideal if you can buy not factory-made, but homemade cottage cheese. Such a product will be much more useful.

Preparation:

Grind the cottage cheese through a sieve so that no individual grains remain.
Tea, vitamin C, and sea buckthorn oil are added to the homogeneous mixture.
Mix and apply to face.

The mask reduces oiliness, brightens pores, evens out complexion. Can be used to get rid of hyperpigmentation.

For problematic

Ingredients:

oatmeal - 3 tbsp. l.;
honey - 1 tbsp. l.;
vitamin C - 1 ampoule;
milk - 1 tbsp. l.

To make a mask you will need a coffee grinder or pestle and mortar.

Preparation:

The flakes are ground into flour, the resulting powder is mixed with honey and ascorbic acid.
Add milk and a little water to the mixture to adjust the consistency.
Before applying the mask, lightly massage problem areas so that the active components are more easily absorbed.

For age

Ingredients:

almonds - 10 nuts;
cocoa powder - 1 tsp;
avocado - ½ fruit;
ascorbic acid - 1 ampoule.

Recipe:

Almonds must be ground into flour and then mixed with avocado puree.
Add cocoa and vitamin C to the mixture.
To regulate the thickness, pour in a little clean water, you can use mineral water.

The mask nourishes, tones, makes wrinkles less noticeable.

For hair

Unlike face masks, hair recipes are divided not by type (for dry, oily, etc.), but by existing problems. There are masks that improve growth, moisturize and nourish, and there are products that preserve hair color after dyeing. We have selected 3 options for universal hair masks.

Stimulation of growth

Ingredients:

egg - 1 pc.;
castor oil - 2 tsp;
vitamin C - 1 ampoule.

Preparation and use:

Beat the egg lightly.
Mix the ingredients thoroughly.
Apply the resulting mixture to the scalp, massage for a couple of minutes, and then distribute the remaining mixture throughout the hair.
Keep the mixture on your hair for 30–35 minutes, then rinse with shampoo.

From falling out

Ingredients:

vitamin C - 1 ampoule;
burdock oil - 2 tsp;
castor oil - 1 tsp;
Jojoba essential oil - 2 drops.

Preparation:

Heat the oils in a water bath and then mix with vitamin C.
Distribute the mixture along the hair roots with your fingers or using a sponge.
For the best effect, massage your scalp, then put on a plastic cap and wrap a towel on top.
Keep the mask on for at least 4 hours. It is better to apply the mixture to the roots and leave overnight.

For hydration

Ingredients:

vitamin C - 1 ampoule;
kefir - ½ cup;
yolk - 1 pc.;
burdock or castor oil - 1 tbsp. l.

The recipe is very simple:

Mix all the ingredients, and for better results add a few drops of vitamins A and E.
First apply the mixture to the roots and then distribute along the length.
Leave the nourishing mask on for an hour and then wash off with shampoo.

The mixture has a lightening effect, so the vitamin mask should not be used to care for colored hair.

Application of the substance

For full effectiveness, a liquid solution of vitamin C is administered using the mesotherapy method directly under the skin so that the cells of all layers of the dermis receive the valuable component without spending on other tissues. Also, ascorbic acid is often a component of various meso-cocktails, but in its pure form it is not injected under the skin. Most often, vitamin C is mixed with natural plant extracts, liquid collagen, retinol, hyaluronic acid and tocopherol.

This procedure is safe if performed by a qualified specialist. The injections cause only minor discomfort as very thin needles are used. After treating the skin, many important processes are launched in its cells, as a result of which aging and the formation of pigmentation stop, active synthesis of collagen fibers begins, and the tone and complexion are evened out. There is also an improvement in blood circulation at the local level.

An option for carrying out the procedure can be considered the use of a mesoscooter, which (if handled correctly) can be used at home. Before treatment, you need to wash your face thoroughly, apply a solution of ascorbic acid mixed with retinol and tocopherol, and walk with a mesoscooter in the direction of the massage lines. The processing can be done differently. In this case, the washed face must first be passed over with a mesoscooter, after which it is immediately necessary to apply a nutritional composition based on ascorbic acid and leave for half an hour.

After treating the dermis with a mesoscooter, some swelling, swelling of the skin and its redness are almost always observed, which many perceive as side effects. In fact, this is a normal reaction of the skin to microscopic, but very numerous damage. Such symptoms usually disappear on their own within just a few hours, just like after a salon treatment.

Of course, mesotherapy, both salon and home, is not the only way to introduce valuable ascorbic acid. A solution of this substance can be bought at any pharmacy in regular ampoules. It is intended for injection into the body intramuscularly or intravenously, so you can simply undergo a certain course of injections. The result of such therapy will be not only the renewal of the dermis and an increase in its elasticity, but also an increase in mental and physical performance, and a general improvement in condition and health.

The liquid solution in ampoules can be added to a variety of cosmetic products, including homemade ones. Ascorbic acid has a special structure, so it is easily mixed with masks and creams of various densities and fat contents, and also quickly dissolves in tonics and lotions. When mixing, proportions must be observed. For 15 grams (ml) of the selected product, you need to add 2 grams (the contents of one ampoule) of vitamin C.

The solution from ampoules cannot be applied to the skin in its pure form, since in this case the dermis will receive a guaranteed burn of varying intensity, which will require a long recovery. To treat your face exclusively with ascorbic acid, you need to dilute it in clean water, adding one part of vitamin C to 2 parts of the liquid. The resulting composition can be used for compresses, application and regular wiping of the face.

If you use ascorbic acid externally, it is better to choose a solution with a concentration of 5%. A 10% solution is available in pharmacy chains, but its concentration is too high for external use.

In addition to ampoules, you can also buy powdered vitamin C in pharmacies; the weight of one sachet in this case is 2.5 grams. To prepare a healing solution, pour a sachet of the product into cold boiled water (2.5 liters, ratio 1 gram per liter). You can take this solution orally in an amount of 10 ml per day and use it to wipe the dermis. After 10 days of such therapy, the condition of the skin improves significantly, pigmentation disappears from its surface, the tone is evened out, tone increases, and elasticity increases.

Often, ascorbic acid powder is used to prepare household cosmetic preparations, for example, lotions and tonics. To do this, you need to take a glass (250 ml) of a decoction of medicinal herbs or homemade milk, add one sachet of the product. You need to wipe your face with the prepared solution twice a day.

The powder is also used to make homemade gommages, various scrubs and natural peeling products, since ascorbic acid perfectly dissolves dead cells of the stratum corneum and the contents of pores.

You can buy vitamin C in various pharmacies in tablet form, as well as in food capsules. They can be taken orally in courses to improve the health of the entire body and dermis. However, the tablets can be crushed into powder and administered in small quantities in a mixture for masks. The concentration of the substance should be minimal so as not to cause harm to the dermis or cause a burn.

Reviews about the application

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Vitamin C in cosmetics and cosmetology

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Ascorbic acid is a capricious component. But when used correctly, it can work wonders. Girls in reviews of fortified cosmetics wrote that it eliminates hyperpigmentation, evens out complexion and makes the skin soft. Thanks to the ability of ascorbic acid to improve collagen synthesis, the epidermis becomes denser and more elastic, fine wrinkles disappear, and the skin fades more slowly. Therefore, vitamin C is included in many anti-aging products.

But there are also disadvantages. A high concentration of vitamin C in cosmetic products increases the skin's sensitivity to sunlight, so you must use products with SPF filters.

Another possible disadvantage of fortified cosmetics was mentioned by those with sensitive skin. In girls with such epidermis, ascorbic acid can cause irritation. We recommend starting with products with a small concentration of vitamin C to test the reaction.

Contraindications and regularity

What vitamins are best for facial skin? General contraindications for the use of vitamins in ampoules are individual intolerance to the components included in vitamin masks, various diseases of the facial skin and diseases of the vascular system.

The frequency of use of such vitamin ampoules may vary depending on the specific problem, but on average it is about twice a week.

In order for our skin to look young and beautiful, it needs proper care.

In addition to proper and balanced nutrition, external influences are very important for the skin. Vitamins in ampoules are an excellent alternative to expensive salon procedures that can give your skin health, youth and beauty.