Well, not permanently. Instead, vitamin C can cause temporary skin staining (also known as hyperpigmentation), which happens when l-ascorbic acid (the most common form of vitamin C and one that is less shelf-stable) oxidizes and turns into erythrulose (a key ingredient in many self-tanner products).
When Vitamin C is exposed to light it becomes unstable, the consequences include irritation, inflammation and acne. All of these can cause post inflammatory pigmentation, leaving you worse off than when you started.
Vitamin C in the form of ascorbic acid oxidises easily to dehydroascorbic acid, which has an orange-brown colour. It does this when it's stored in water, as well as on your skin. In this form, it further decomposes into erythrulose. Erythrulose is used in tanning lotions.
As sun exposure worsens hyperpigmentation it is important to protect the skin with sunscreen on a daily basis. Treatment often begins with a skin care regimen composed of a daily sunscreen, moisturizers, and skin care brighteners.
“Treatments containing ingredients like vitamin C, licorice root, and kojic acid help reduce hyperpigmentation by inhibiting tyrosinase, an enzyme responsible for the formation of skin-darkening melanin," says Ni'Kita Wilson, a cosmetic chemist in New York City.
What triggers hyperpigmentation? Triggers include sun exposure, hormonal changes, and trauma to the skin, for example, due to acne or an injury. Picking at scabs and spots may make it worse. Some face creams can irritate the skin, leading to further hyperpigmentation.
After two months of use, users may experience significant fading of hyperpigmentation.
We recommend going with lower concentration if you're just starting out or you have sensitive skin. Remember, potential vitamin C serum side effects include itching, redness, irritation, tingling, and burning. If you experience any of these when using vitamin C, or any skincare product, it's best to shelve it.
Between 5-20% concentration of Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic acid) is common, with 10-15% being a good middle ground for most people. Focus on your skin's sensitivity and choose a product formulated for your needs. Consulting a dermatologist can help you determine the right amount for you.
Stop Taking Vitamin C Supplements if You're Overdosing
In most cases, lowering or eliminating Vitamin C in supplement form should be enough to eliminate most or all overdose symptoms. Drinking more water should also help to flush out your body and help you recover from an overdose.
Unlike fat-soluble vitamins, it doesn't require food or specific timing to work effectively. However, some people may want to avoid taking it before bed: If you have acid reflux or a sensitive stomach – Vitamin C, especially in high doses, can increase stomach acidity, and lead to mild heartburn or nausea.
You should be able to get all the vitamin C you need by eating a varied and balanced diet. If you take vitamin C supplements, do not take too much as this could be harmful. Taking less than 1,000mg of vitamin C supplements a day is unlikely to cause any harm.
Three of the best vitamins for lightening dark spots are vitamin C, vitamin B12, and vitamin E. Vitamin C helps your skin produce more collagen while inhibiting the formation of melanin. Vitamin B12 also promotes collagen formation while supporting the growth of new skin cells.
It inhibits melanin synthesis through downregulation of tyrosinase enzyme activity. It is widely used in dermatology as a treatment modality in depigmentation of hyperpigmented spots on the skin. It has also been used for treatment of gingival melanin hyperpigmentation.
Hyperpigmentation from Skincare Products
Ironically, certain skincare products meant to brighten can darken your complexion. Hydroquinone, retinoids, and potent acids may trigger irritation or allergies, potentially causing ochronosis.
Safety and side effects
When taken at appropriate doses, oral vitamin C supplements are generally considered safe. Taking too much vitamin C can cause side effects, including: Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Heartburn.
Skin Irritation: Redness, itching, and a burning or stinging sensation. Dryness: Vitamin C can sometimes dry out the skin, leading to flakiness and tightness. Allergic Reactions: Some of the users may experience swelling, hives, or severe itching with excessive use of vitamin C.
In the absence of SPF, you may notice at times that your skin is easily tanned. Either tan or your skin may have turned into a funny orange or peach-ish color. It is because Vitamin C is extremely potent but it can easily react with the air, light and heat in the environment to only make your skin appear darker.
Well, not permanently. Instead, vitamin C can cause temporary skin staining (also known as hyperpigmentation), which happens when l-ascorbic acid (the most common form of vitamin C and one that is less shelf-stable) oxidizes and turns into erythrulose (a key ingredient in many self-tanner products).
The hyperpigmentation related to vitamin B12 deficiency is more common in darker-skinned patients. Few other cases of skin hyperpigmentation due to vitamin B12 deficiency have been reported in the literature. The mechanism of hyperpigmentation is due to increased melanin synthesis rather than a defect in melanin.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is characterised by flat, tan, brown or black spots on the skin. This condition can occur on any area of the body, including in the mouth, the genital areas and on the nails.