If vitamin C gets stuck inside pores it can oxidize and make them look darker than usual. But a good cleansing ritual will exfoliate skin once or twice a week, so this shouldn't happen.
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).
“Vitamin C inhibits tyrosinase, an enzyme that aids melanin production, so it does not darken your skin but evens it out and brightens it when used over time. If it is giving you a fake tan effect, it means that the product has oxidised and degraded and is going to be ineffective.
Skin darkening after applying products could be due to photosensitivity (some ingredients, like AHAs or retinol, make skin more sensitive to sunlight) or an allergic reaction. Ensure you're using sunscreen daily if your products contain active ingredients.
4 weeks is usually the golden rule for beginning to see changes - it's allowed your skin to go through at least one renewal cycle with this skin-changing ingredient. At this point, your skin should have a subtle change in radiance, which is something you'll notice will stick around as long as you keep using Vitamin C.
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.
Too much vitamin C serum can cause skin irritation and too little may not provide the desired results. It's best to follow the instructions on the product label and start with a small amount of serum, gradually increasing the amount based on your skin's needs.
Skin darkening often stems from hormonal shifts. Pregnancy, birth control, and thyroid problems can disrupt the delicate balance. These changes may spur excess melanin production, the pigment responsible for skin colour. As hormone levels fluctuate, melanin output rises, leading to darker skin tones.
You will usually notice a reduction in dark spots within two weeks of using this product. After one month of usage, your skin will experience increased collagen production and also stay protected against sun damage.
Skin purging is an informal term for a temporary increase in acne that some people observe when they begin using a new skin care product. Due to a lack of research on the topic, it is unclear if this is a common side effect or why it occurs.
Additionally, topical vitamin C can help with acne through its anti-inflammatory properties that help control sebum (oil) production within the skin. In clinical trials, twice-daily application of vitamin C reduced acne lesions when compared to placebo.
While Vitamin C serum is generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience skin irritation, especially if they have sensitive skin. Symptoms of irritation can include redness, itching, and a burning sensation.
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.
Vitamin C preparations can also discolor on the skin surface as they contact oxygen in the environment. This accounts for the orange color that may emerge on the skin in the morning after wearing a vitamin C preparation overnight.
“Purging usually follows a predictable duration, typically anywhere from four to six weeks,” Dr. Thiede said. Since purging occurs because your skin is adjusting to a new product, it shouldn't last longer than how long it takes for your skin to renew itself (about 28 days for most people).
Inhibition of Melanin Production: Vitamin C inhibits the production of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its colour. It inhibits the enzyme tyrosinase, which is involved in melanin formation. Vitamin C prevents and reduces hyperpigmentation by controlling melanin production, resulting in more equal skin tone.
Vitamin C serum can be transformational for your skin, but it's important to be realistic about your expectations for seeing visible improvements. Patience is key when it comes to seeing results, and so is consistency. Regular use of vitamin C serum should enable you to see visible improvement in 4-8 weeks.
Wait for the Vitamin C serum to be absorbed completely before applying the moisturizer. This is the best vitamin c serum in india and it will take about 5-10 minutes. After this, apply the moisturizer all over the face and neck, avoiding the eye area.
Estrogen and progesterone are two of the major factors responsible for catamenial hyperpigmentation of the skin.
Vitamin C cosmetic products are designed for all skin types ; however, although rare, side effects can occur on the most sensitive skins. Indeed, following a vitamin C skin treatment, some people have experienced itching, skin irritations, burns, and tingling.
If you experience any irritation or allergic reaction, you should stop using the serum immediately, and if you have ongoing concerns about vitamin C products or your skin health, be sure to speak to a medical professional immediately.