Choose the Right Concentration Identifying the right concentration for your skin type is essential to how effective your topical vitamin C will be, says New York City dermatologist Dr. Patricia Wexler. "Begin with a low concentration of 10% and increase to 15% or 20% as tolerated," she instructs.
If you are a beginner using Vitamin C serum and your skin cannot tolerate high concentrations, go for a serum with no more than 5% concentration to start with. Similarly, if your skin is used to it and can tolerate a high percentage, go for 15-20% concentration, as lower than that may not work for you.
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.
This gentle form of Vitamin C delivers transformative effects for radiance and texture, combating Collagen degradation and acting as a mild tyrosinase inhibitor, helping to brighten and even skin tone.
"Begin with a low concentration of 10% and increase to 15% or 20% as tolerated," she instructs. For oily or normal skin, L-ascorbic acid is the most potent form of vitamin C and can be the most beneficial, while for dry and sensitive skin, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, a water-soluble vitamin C, is less irritating.
The skin changes seen with Vitamin C do not occur quickly. Vitamin C serum can take 12- 16 weeks to work on dark spots and 6 - 12 months to work on wrinkles. But it is a very good skin care ingredient and is worth the wait in most skin types.
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.
For adults, the recommended daily amount for vitamin C is 65 to 90 milligrams (mg) a day, and the upper limit is 2,000 mg a day. Although too much dietary vitamin C is unlikely to be harmful, megadoses of vitamin C supplements might cause: Diarrhea.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT CONCENTRATION
Topical vitamin C products can range in concentration anywhere from 5% up to 30%, depending on the derivative of vitamin C used and product formulation. When pure vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) is used in a serum format, La Roche-Posay recommends a concentration of 10% to 20%.
This ingredient comes in different strengths and concentrations meaning that all skin types—even acne-prone complexions and sensitive skin—can enjoy its benefits. While it can be applied daily, start with 3-4 times a week if you like to play it safe and work your way up.
Schlessinger says people with very sensitive skin should consult with a dermatologist before use, since potent forms of vitamin C can sometimes irritate sensitive skin. Vitamin C serum may result in yellowing of the skin or clothes, stinging, or dryness, though those effects are rare.
Concentration: For beginners, a concentration between 10%-15% is ideal. Higher concentrations can be more potent but may irritate sensitive skin.
Concentration: Niacinamide serums typically range from 5% to 10% concentration. For beginners, a 5% concentration is a good starting point. You can increase the concentration as your skin gets accustomed to the ingredient. Skin type: If you have sensitive skin, look for a fragrance-free and gentle formulation.
Vitamin C and Vitamin D are two essential nutrients that play important roles in the body and help to maintain overall health and wellness. You may be wondering, “Can I take Vitamin D and C together?” The answer is… Yes. In fact, when taken together, they're a powerful combo that can support the immune system.
Signs of vitamin C deficiency include a tendency to bruise or bleed easily, bleeding gums, wobbly teeth, poor wound healing, tiredness, anaemia, and small red spots on the skin. Severe vitamin C deficiency is called scurvy.
What does the Department of Health and Social Care advise? 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.
Can beginners use 10% Vitamin C Serum? Yes. A top 10% Vitamin C Serum mostly contains skin-benefiting ingredients that help treat various skin conditions like dull skin, hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, etc.
The sweet spot for the concentration level is between 10 and 20 percent. You definitely want a concentration that's higher than 8 percent for maximum effectiveness. But going over 20 percent could lead to irritation and doesn't increase its benefit.
However, the best way to know, according to Dr Kiran, is to notice the difference in your skin. “If you use the serum for a month and find your skin to be bright, clear, less sensitive to the sun, and you are feeling fresher, then vitamin C is definitely working,” she said.
In general, experts recommend that women get 75 mg of vitamin C a day and men get 90 mg. Pregnant people should aim to get 85 mg a day. People who breastfeed their babies should try to get 120 mg a day. Children usually need less daily vitamin C than adults.