The most famous and important benefits of vitamin C for the skin

Some individuals suffer from acne during adolescence, as a result of the physiological changes that the body goes through, in addition to other reasons that lead to the emergence of this problem. In this context, "Dalili Medical" reviews in the following lines the possibility of a lack of vitamin C affecting the appearance of acne.

**When should you use vitamin C serum?**
It is preferable to start using it from the age of 30, regardless of skin type. As you age, the skin becomes weaker and duller due to the increase in free radicals. However, there is no harm in using it in the twenties.

**What are the benefits of vitamin C serum for melasma?**
Yes, this serum helps the skin produce larger amounts of natural collagen, and it also contributes to inhibiting the melanin layer, which helps in treating melasma and dark pigmentation.

**What are the benefits of vitamin C for oily skin?**
Using the serum helps in treating inflammation and scars resulting from acne, which leads to reducing its negative effects on the skin.

**What is the skin made of and what does vitamin C have to do with it?**
The skin consists of two main layers: the epidermis and the dermis. The outer layer of the skin consists of a group of cells that protect the body from external factors such as infection and chemicals. While the dermis layer consists of proteins and collagen, it is rich in blood and lymphatic supplies. To maintain the elasticity and strength of the skin, it is necessary to maintain the level of collagen. Antioxidant vitamins play an important role in the formation and production of collagen, in addition to many other benefits.

**When should you use vitamin C serum for the skin?**
In general, it is recommended to use vitamin C serum in the morning and evening after applying facial toner and skin cleanser.

When exposed to direct sunlight, it is preferable to use sunscreen. Before bed, it is recommended to apply a night moisturizer suitable for your skin type. It is also preferable to apply cosmetics after using vitamin C to maintain the radiance of the skin and protect it from oxidation. If the yellow color of the cream has turned dark orange, it should be disposed of immediately because it has become oxidized and unusable. If the cream is transparent and turns yellow, this indicates oxidation and decreased effectiveness.

**How ​​to use Vitamin C and benefit from its benefits:**
Studies have shown that external use of Vitamin C is more effective than internal use for skin care. Regardless of your skin type, whether dry, oily or combination, you can follow the following steps:

1. Make sure there is no allergic reaction to Vitamin C serum.
2. Cleanse your skin well using a gentle cleanser that suits your skin type.
3. Apply a few drops of Vitamin C serum and massage the skin in light circular motions until it is completely absorbed.
4. Apply drops the size of a cornstarch on the neck and hands.
5. Leave the serum on the skin for three minutes before applying Rexana moisturizing face cream.
Make sure to moisturize your skin with the appropriate cream, making sure it contains ingredients that provide sun protection. This method can be repeated once or twice a day until the results of the serum appear. If your skin is sensitive, it is preferable to use it only once.

**Benefits of Vitamin C for Women's Skin**

The benefits of Vitamin C for your skin are many, as Vitamin C serum is considered one of the essential elements in your skin care routine, as it protects the skin from the sun's rays and provides many other benefits, which we review below:

1. **Vitamin C and Pigmentation**
Vitamin C serum helps reduce pigmentation, making the skin brighter and more even. It works to reduce the production of melanin, which helps reduce hyperpigmentation caused by the sun, melasma, or signs of aging.

2. **Vitamin C and Hydration**
Vitamin C helps moisturize the skin by reducing water loss through the layers of the skin, which helps maintain skin moisture for a longer period.

3. **Benefits of Vitamin C for the under-eye area**
Vitamin C is effective in reducing eye wrinkles and dark circles, as it works to smooth fine lines by moisturizing the area. Vitamin C serum also helps reduce redness, which reduces pigmentation associated with dark circles.

4. **Vitamin C as a skin protector**
Vitamin C serum protects the skin from the harmful rays of the sun, thanks to its antioxidant content that protects healthy skin cells. When the skin is exposed to ultraviolet rays, free radicals are formed that cause great damage. This is where Vitamin C serum comes in, as it gives these radicals the electrons they need, making them harmless.

5. **The importance of Vitamin C in collagen production**
Vitamin C serum enhances the production of collagen in the skin, which helps replace collagen that decreases over time. Collagen deficiency leads to the appearance of wrinkles and sagging skin, so using Vitamin C serum is essential to maintain skin elasticity and even out its color.

6. **Wound healing**
Vitamin C contributes to accelerating the wound healing process by enhancing collagen production.

7. **Treatment of sunburn**
Vitamin C serum reduces redness resulting from sunburn, and stimulates the replacement of damaged cells with healthy cells.

**How ​​to Use Vitamin C for Skin**

Before you start using Vitamin C for your skin, it is important to do a sensitivity test to make sure there is no allergic reaction to the serum. You can do this by following these steps:

1. Apply a small amount of Vitamin C serum to your forearm.

2. Leave the serum on for 24 hours.

3. If you notice any allergic reaction such as redness or itching, stop using the serum.

4. If no symptoms appear, you can use the serum safely.

It is preferable to follow the instructions on the package, and the serum is usually used twice daily. For best results, you canFollow these steps:

1. Wash your face well using a cleanser suitable for your skin type.

2. Apply a few drops of vitamin C according to the instructions on the package, and gently distribute it on your skin.

3. After the skin absorbs the serum, you can use a moisturizer suitable for your skin type.

**What is the appropriate nutritional dose of vitamin C for the skin?**

The appropriate daily dose of vitamin C serum ranges from 15 to 75 milligrams for children, 75 milligrams for adult men, and 90 milligrams for adult women. As for pregnant or breastfeeding women, the appropriate dose ranges from 85 to 120 milligrams.

**Does vitamin C serum cause pimples?**

Although vitamin C is considered one of the most powerful antioxidants, it is an unstable compound, which makes it susceptible to oxidation when exposed to light and air. This can be a challenge when used, and may lead to some side effects. So, does vitamin C serum cause pimples? Here's the answer:

1. Vitamin C serum may cause facial purging pimples (Purging).
The serum works to renew skin cells and stimulate collagen production, which may cause pimples to appear in response to treatment, known as facial purification pimples. These pimples are the result of the skin purification process, where the pimples under the skin are removed and treated, and these pimples are usually temporary.

2. Using vitamin C serum may lead to pimples due to other ingredients in it
The reason for the appearance of pimples when using vitamin C serum may not be the vitamin itself, but other ingredients in the formula. The most prominent of these ingredients is vitamin E, which is found in many types of vitamin C serum, and may contribute to clogged pores and the appearance of pimples, especially in people with oily skin.

3. Vitamin C affects the balance of beneficial bacteria (Microbiome) in the skin
Contrary to what we may think, antioxidants are not always beneficial, and free radicals are not always harmful. In fact, there is a certain balance between them in the human body, and an increase in either of them may lead to an imbalance in this balance. So, we can answer the question of whether vitamin C serum causes pimples through the following points:

- Free radicals may play a role in combating acne-causing bacteria.
- The balance of free radicals and antioxidants is important for the health of beneficial bacteria on the surface of the skin.
- Using vitamin C serum, which is a powerful antioxidant, can lead to an imbalance of beneficial bacteria on the skin, which may cause inflammation and pimples.
- Vitamin C serum helps get rid of harmful free radicals, but if used in excessive amounts, it may significantly reduce free radicals, giving acne-causing bacteria a chance to grow.
2. Using vitamin C serum may cause pimples due to other ingredients in it
The reason for pimples when using vitamin C serum may not be the vitamin itself, but other ingredients in the formula. One of the most prominent of these ingredients is vitamin E, which is found in many types of vitamin C serum, and may contribute to clogged pores and the appearance of pimples, especially in people with oily skin.

3. Vitamin C affects the balance of beneficial bacteria (Microbiome) in the skin
Contrary to what we may think, antioxidants are not always beneficial, and free radicals are not always harmful. In fact, there is a certain balance between them in the human body, and an increase in either of them may lead to an imbalance. Therefore, we can answer the question of whether vitamin C serum causes pimples through the following points:

- Free radicals may play a role in combating the bacteria that cause acne.
- The balance of free radicals and antioxidants is important for the health of beneficial bacteria on the surface of the skin.
- Using vitamin C serum, which is a powerful antioxidant, can lead to an imbalance of beneficial bacteria on the skin, which may cause inflammation and the appearance of pimples.
- Vitamin C serum helps get rid of harmful free radicals, but if used in excessive amounts, this may significantly reduce free radicals, giving the bacteria that cause acne an opportunity to grow.

**Easy bruising**
Symptoms of vitamin C deficiency on the skin include bruising due to weak blood vessel walls and easy rupture of capillaries, which leads to the formation of bruises under the skin. Vitamin C plays an important role in strengthening the walls of blood vessels. Bruises may appear as small purple dots under the skin or may cover large areas of the body.

**Slow wound healing**
Symptoms of vitamin C deficiency on the skin can appear through slow wound healing, due to a lack of collagen necessary to repair and restore the skin, in addition to its role in enhancing the body's ability to fight infection by supporting the work of immune cells.

**Weak immunity**
Vitamin C contributes to enhancing the effectiveness of immune cells in fighting infection, so its deficiency may increase the likelihood of infection such as pneumonia and cystitis. In severe cases, vitamin C deficiency may lead to a significant weakening of immunity, which may cause death.

**Unexplained weight gain**
Vitamin C plays a role in regulating the process of burning fat for energy, and it is believed that there is a relationship between its deficiency and increased body fat, especially in the abdominal area. However, vitamin C deficiency is not the main factor behind weight gain.

**Bleeding gums**
Symptoms of vitamin C deficiency include swollen, red, and easily bleeding gums, due to weak blood vessels and lack of collagen production necessary for healthy teeth and gums. In severe cases, deficiency can lead to severe gum weakness, which can cause loosening and tooth loss.

**Iron deficiency anemia**
A lack of vitamin C can lead to iron deficiency anemia, due to its importance in the absorption ofIron. Its deficiency may also increase the likelihood of bleeding easily, which may be attributed to persistent anemia.

**Symptoms of severe vitamin C deficiency**

Severe vitamin C deficiency can lead to scurvy, a condition in which the symptoms of vitamin C deficiency appear severe and may be life-threatening if left untreated.

Symptoms of severe vitamin C deficiency or scurvy include:

- Loss of appetite and weight loss.
- Feeling tired and lethargic.
- Pain in muscles, bones and joints.
- Hair growing in spirals and cracked nails.
- The appearance of small red spots under the skin due to bleeding capillaries.
- Poor wound healing.
- Bleeding gums and tooth loss.
- Anemia.
- Mood swings or depression.
- Shortness of breath and pneumonia.

**Symptoms of Vitamin C Deficiency on the Skin**

1. **Keratosis Pilaris**: After 3 to 5 months of low vitamin C levels in the body, rough bumps may appear on the back of the arms, thighs, or buttocks, known as keratosis pilaris, as a result of the accumulation of keratin inside the pores of the skin.

2. **Red Spots**: When vitamin C is deficient, superficial blood vessels can break, leading to red spots around the hair follicles.

3. **Dry Skin**: Vitamin C deficiency negatively affects collagen levels in the skin, leading to dry skin and wrinkles by up to 10%.

4. **Bruising**: Bruising is a warning sign of low vitamin C levels, as the lack of collagen production leads to weak blood vessels and increased susceptibility to rupture.

1- **Keratosis pilaris**
After a period of 3 to 5 months of vitamin C deficiency in the body, rough bumps appear on the back of the arms, thighs or buttocks, and doctors call it "keratosis pilaris", as a result of the accumulation of keratin inside the pores of the skin.

2- **Red spots**
When vitamin C deficiency occurs in the body, the superficial blood vessels are exposed to breakage, which leads to the appearance of red spots around the hair follicles.

3- **Dry skin**
Vitamin C deficiency negatively affects collagen levels in the skin, leading to a decrease in them, thus causing dry skin and the appearance of wrinkles by up to 10%.

4- **Bruises**
Bruises are a warning sign of vitamin C deficiency in the body, as decreased collagen production leads to weak blood vessels, making them more susceptible to rupture.

5- **Slow wound healing**
Poor collagen production resulting from vitamin C deficiency prolongs the wound healing period, which increases the risk of infection.

**Natural sources of vitamin C**

Nature is characterized by a variety of fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C, which can meet the body's needs without the need for vitamin C supplements.

Among the most prominent natural sources of vitamin C are:

- **Orange**: A cup of orange juice contains 97 milligrams of vitamin C.
- **Red pepper**: Half a cup of red pepper provides 95 milligrams.
- **Cooked broccoli**: A cup contains 74 milligrams.
- **Cantaloupe**: A cup contains 59 milligrams.
- **Kiwi**: A medium fruit contains 70 milligrams.
- **Green pepper**: Half a cup contains 60 milligrams.
- **Tomato juice**: A cup of tomato juice provides the body with 45 milligrams.
- **Red Cabbage**: Half a cup contains 40 milligrams.

**Can Vitamin C cause harm to the skin?**

What are the harms of Vitamin C to the skin? As mentioned earlier, the recommended daily dose of Vitamin C ranges from 27 to 120 milligrams depending on age and gender. A person can take up to 2000 milligrams per day, but exceeding this amount may lead to negative effects. Among the possible side effects of excessive intake of Vitamin C, we find:

- Feeling tired and sleepy, and in some cases insomnia may occur.
- Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
- Headache.
- Stomach cramps or bloating.
- Skin redness.
- Heartburn.
- Excessive consumption of Vitamin C in the long term may lead to the formation of kidney stones in some individuals.

What are the criteria that should be considered when choosing and using Vitamin C for the skin?

Vitamin C is available for the skin in several forms, and it is important to choose the most appropriate one according to the skin type, as follows:

**Choosing the right concentration**
Choosing the right concentration of vitamin C helps enhance the freshness of the skin and achieve maximum benefit. It is preferable to start with low concentrations (10%) and then gradually increase it to (15-20%). For oily or normal skin, pure vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) is the best option. As for sensitive and dry skin, using vitamin C derivatives (such as magnesium ascorbic phosphate) is more suitable, as it causes less irritation.

**Pay attention to the pH**
The skin's absorption of vitamin C depends on the pH. If the skin is normal, it is preferable to use vitamin C with a low pH (about 3.5) to get the best results. While for sensitive skin, it is preferable to choose vitamin C with a pH ranging from (5-6), which is in line with the natural pH of the skin.

**Start using vitamin C gradually**
When introducing vitamin C into your skincare routine, it is preferable to do so gradually.

**Storing Vitamin C Properly**
Vitamin C comes in two types: water-soluble and insoluble. The water-soluble type is unstable and sensitive to light, so it comes in opaque or colored bottles. The other type is stable even in the presence of sunlight. So, make sure to close the vitamin C bottle tightly and store it in a dark, cool place. If it turns black or cloudy, it means it has oxidized.

**Use under sunscreen**

When vitamin C is applied with a sunscreen with an SPF of (30), it provides additional protection to the skin, as it is re-For damage caused by free radicals.

**What are the commercial forms of vitamin C available for the skin?**

The benefits of vitamin C are available in several commercial forms, including:

- Vitamin C serum.
- Vitamin C serum for children.
- Vitamin C 500 capsules for the skin.
- Creams and moisturizers rich in vitamin C.
- Vitamin C pills with a dose of 1000 milligrams.
- Vitamin C serum powder to mix with water.

**Vitamins that may lead to acne**

**Vitamin B12:** According to a study conducted at the University of California, Los Angeles, vitamin B12 was found to be linked to several cases of acne in people who take nutritional supplements containing this vitamin. Vitamin B12 is found naturally in animal products such as meat and dairy, and is one of the essential vitamins for the body. Therefore, vegetarians who do not get enough vitamin B12 in their diet may face serious health problems. However, studies have shown that increased levels of this vitamin in the body may lead to disruption of the bacteria responsible for acne, known as Propionibacterium acnes. Therefore, if you have recently started taking vitamin B12 supplements, this may be a major reason for your increased acne, although more research and studies are needed on this topic.

**Multivitamin supplements:** Most multivitamin supplements contain iodine and biotin (vitamin B7), which may lead to acne when taken regularly. If you are taking more than the recommended dose of iodine, which is 150 micrograms per day, you may be taking an excessive amount. You should keep in mind that the recommended dose includes what you take from supplements in addition to what you get from your daily diet. If you eat dairy products, seafood, seaweed, soy products, or salty foods, you may be taking an excess dose of iodine. If you don’t get enough iodine in your diet (which is the case for most people), your multivitamin supplements may be causing or worsening your acne. These supplements often contain the vitamin B12 we mentioned earlier.

**Biotin (Vitamin B7)**: Biotin is an essential supplement for healthy hair and nails, but it’s also an ingredient that can contribute to acne, as it’s found in many products such as shampoos and conditioners, as well as supplements. Contrary to what many people believe, biotin is one of the worst things about acne, and it helps prevent or treat it. The truth is that biotin is naturally produced in the body, so taking biotin supplements is not necessary, and increasing its levels may actually worsen acne instead of treating it. It’s also naturally found in the skin, hair, and nails.

**Ingredients that can be used with Vitamin C serum and others that don't**: You can enhance the benefits of Vitamin C for the skin, regardless of its type, by using a range of natural and chemical ingredients to treat various skin problems, most notably:

- **Hyaluronic Acid**: When used with Vitamin C serum, it helps combat most signs of aging and sagging, but the percentage of Vitamin C should not exceed 15%.
- **Niacinamide**: When combined with Vitamin C, it helps restore your skin's natural appearance and gives it greater radiance and youth. It is preferable to consult a doctor before use.
- **Retinol Acid**: It is a powerful combination with Vitamin C, as it provides complete protection for your skin against various environmental stresses and enhances the production of new cells. But be careful not to overuse it to avoid skin irritation.

**Vitamin C and Honey Mixture**: You can benefit from the benefits of Vitamin C for the skin by preparing a simple home mixture with ingredients available in every home, such as:

**Ingredients**:
- Essential oil.
- A spoonful of honey.
- Vitamin C effervescent tablets.
- A cup of lukewarm water or fresh juice.

**Preparation steps**:
In a bowl, grind two Vitamin C effervescent tablets, then add a cup of water or juice.

You can add a tablespoon of honey after the mixture has completely dissolved. Mix the ingredients well, then add two drops of essential oil and mix again before applying it to the skin. Make sure to distribute the mixture evenly on the skin to get the perfect mask, leave it for 30 minutes and then rinse with lukewarm water. People with sensitive skin should be careful, as they may experience allergic reactions or inflammation.

**Vitamin C mask for lightening and unifying color**

The mixture of glycerin and vitamin C is one of the traditional recipes used for a long time to treat pigmentation and unify skin color, and consists of the following ingredients:

**Ingredients:**
- Two tablespoons of distilled water.
- Two tablespoons of medical glycerin.
- A tablespoon of vitamin C tablet powder.

**Steps to prepare the mixture:**
Mix the medical glycerin with vitamin C powder well, then add two tablespoons of distilled water. After mixing well, apply the mixture to the skin or dark areas, then rinse with warm water. It is recommended to repeat this recipe twice a week until the desired results appear. The remaining amount can be stored in a dark container in the refrigerator, and can be used for a whole month without spoiling.

**Does acne appear due to a lack of vitamin C?**

Some people believe that a lack of vitamin C in the body may lead to acne, but this is not true, as it is not one of the main causes of it. When vitamin C is available in sufficient quantities in the body, it helps to obtain skin free of impurities and wrinkles and rich in collagen, thanks to its antioxidants that purify the skin.