Three products for a radiant, customizable tan — without UV rays

Three products for a radiant, customizable tan — without UV rays

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Dangers vitamine C.

The Dangers of Vitamin C Cream or Serum for Your Skin.

The effectiveness of vitamin C in creams, lotions, or serums has been proven. This acid is a powerful antioxidant that prevents and reduces the signs of aging, brightens the complexion, reduces pigmentation spots and calms skin irritations. It is also found in hair and body care products. Are there any dangers and contraindications to its use? With which active ingredients should it not be combined?

The Dangers of Vitamin C Cream or Serum for Your Skin.C für die Haut?

Generally, a vitamin C cream, serum, or lotion does not present any health hazards. Indeed, they are formulated today from micro-encapsulated vitamins, which makes it possible to get rid of an acid pH so that this compound remains stable in time. Thus, the care products containing this active ingredient are less irritating than before, their pH being closer to that of the skin.

Cosmetic products containing vitamin C are suitable for all skin types; however, even if this is rare, side effects can occur when applying vitamin C on the most sensitive skin. Indeed, following a vitamin C care product, some people have already experienced itching, skin irritation, burning and stinging. In this case, we advise you to adapt your skincare routine. Choose a vitamin C face cream over a serum, as its concentration in it is lower. Avoid combining vitamin C with other potentially irritating active ingredients such as fruit acids and retinol. Space out applications (use a vitamin C cream in the morning OR in the evening).

Contraindications of Vitamin C in Topical Application.

Strictly speaking, there are no contraindications to the use of a vitamin C-based skincare product. It is only not recommended to apply this acid on your skin if you have a wound in the process of healing to avoid the risks of irritation.

Remember that it is perfectly possible to apply a product containing this active ingredient before exposure to the sun. Vitamin C skincare will protect the skin cells from free radicals and oxidative stress caused by UV radiation. Nevertheless, it is important to apply a sunscreen just after the vitamin C treatment, to protect yourself from the harmful effects of the sun.

Vitamin C: Which Combinations Should Be Avoided?

  • Vitamin C and acids:

It is not recommended to combine vitamin C with strong acids such as alpha-hydroxy acids (lactic acid, glycolic acid, etc.) azelaic acid and salicylic acid. This mixture may cause irritation and inflammation of the epidermis. Therefore, apply your salicylic acid or azelaic acid or AHA treatment in the evening and your vitamin C cream, serum, or lotion in the morning to avoid side effects.

  • Vitamin C and retinol:

Don't combine these two actives at the same time in your skincare routine. Both are effective in fighting the signs of aging but do not work in synergy. On the contrary, applying one after the other can cause significant irritation and even unwanted peeling. To get the most out of their effects, apply your vitamin C cream, serum, or lotion in the morning and your retinol cream in the evening.

Sources

  • TELANG P. S. Vitamin C in dermatology. Indian Dermatology Online Journal (2013).

  • RICCI LEONARDI G. & al. Vitamin C: One compound, several uses. Advances for delivery, efficiency and stability. Nanomedicine: Nanotechnology, Biology, and Medicine (2020).

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