Introduction to vitamin C serum

Vitamin C serum, also known as ascorbic acid, delivers a concentrated dose to the skin, typically in a liquid or gel form. It's a powerful antioxidant that can fight free radicals which may be caused by environmental stressors like pollution and sun exposure. Beyond its antioxidant benefits, vitamin C serum is widely used for its ability to brighten the complexion, improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of dark spots. This makes it a skincare superhero for helping to combat the look of dullness, fine lines and uneven skin tone and pigmentation. With a wide variety of formulations and strengths available, vitamin C serum can cater to different skin types and concerns, making it a go-to in any skincare ritual.

Why use vitamin C serum on your face?

Vitamin C serum is often considered a holy grail product in skincare for several reasons. Whether you're facing visible signs of ageing skin and discolouration or simply seeking a radiant glow, this versatile ingredient offers a range of benefits:

Antioxidant protection:
Vitamin C is one of the most powerful antioxidants in skincare. Antioxidants work by neutralising free radicals which can come from smoking and UV exposure.

Brightening the skin:
Vitamin C has a well-known ability to brighten the complexion. Regular use of vitamin C serum can lead to a more even looking skin tone and reduce the appearance of sunspots, age spots and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation – giving skin a youthful-looking glow.

Improving skin texture:
Vitamin C also helps to refine skin texture. It promotes cellular turnover and exfoliates dead skin cells, resulting in a smoother and more radiant-looking complexion. If you’re dealing with rough patches or dull skin, vitamin C can offer a significant improvement in the overall texture.

How to use vitamin C serum on your face

Using vitamin C serum in your skincare routine can deliver amazing results, but it’s important to apply it correctly to maximise its benefits. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use vitamin C serum effectively.

1. Cleanse

The first step in any skincare routine should always be cleansing. Use a gentle cleanser that suits your skin type to remove any dirt, oil and impurities to help prepare skin for the application of your serum. For a deep cleanse, we recommend our multi award-winning Cleanse & Glow™ Transforming Gel Cleanser. This melting formula transforms from a luxurious gel, enriched with natural micelles, into a lightweight oil to effortlessly remove SPF, dirt, pollutants and make up, before rinsing off as a skin-softening milk to rinse away impurities without undoing skin benefits.

2. Tone (optional)

Toning is an optional step but can be beneficial for prepping the skin. A good toner will remove any remaining impurities, preparing your skin for the absorption of your serum. Choose an alcohol free toner if you have sensitive skin' so the recommendation is clearly related to alcohol being more of an issue for sensitive skin. Our Smooth & Glow™ Exfoliating Tonic leaves skin feeling resurfaced, without irritation.

3. Apply vitamin C serum

Once your face is clean and toned, it's time to apply the vitamin C serum. Dispense a small amount into your hands and gently press the serum onto your skin. It’s important to remember that vitamin C serums can sometimes cause mild tingling, especially if you’re new to the product. This is normal, but if you experience burning or significant irritation, discontinue use and consult a dermatologist.

4. Follow with moisturiser

After applying your serum, give it a few minutes to fully absorb into the skin. Follow up with a moisturiser to lock in hydration and create a protective barrier. Our Revitalise & Glow™ Illuminating Gel Moisturiser quenches skin with hydration, naturally exfoliates, and minimises the appearance of pores for a dewy-looking finish.

5. Use sunscreen (in the AM)

If you're applying vitamin C serum in the morning, finish off your routine with a broad-spectrum sunscreen to your face and neck. While vitamin C helps protect against free radical damage, it doesn't replace the need for UV protection.

Our Environmental Defence Cream Mineral SPF 25 is formulated with mineral UV filters and antioxidant plant 'extracts, it helps protect your skin from the elements and prime it for the day ahead. Offering broad-spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays, blue light and pollution while supporting skin’s natural defence barrier.

Best practices for using vitamin C serum

To get the most out of your vitamin C serum, follow these best practices to ensure that you're using the serum correctly and get ready to reap the rewards.

1. Use it daily

For the best results, consistency is key. Use vitamin C serum once daily, preferably in the morning, to provide your skin with antioxidant protection throughout the day. If your skin is particularly sensitive, you can start by using it every other day and gradually build up to daily use.

2. Store properly

Vitamin C serums are a highly potent antioxidant that breaks down and loses effectiveness when exposed to air, heat or sunlight. To prolong the serum, store it in a cool, dark place, preferably in a tightly sealed, opaque container. Some formulations come in airless pumps or dark glass bottles to help protect the serum from oxidation.

3. Layer with the right ingredients

One excellent option is our Skin Repair Hydrating Serum. Powered by plant-based hyaluronic acid and snow mushroom, this formula supercharges your routine with an instant and continuous burst of moisture. Lightweight yet ultra-effective, it’s scientifically proven to hydrate multiple surface layers of skin, leaving skin feeling instantly hydrated, replenished and refreshed.

Another great choice is our Superskin Face Serum. Enriched with Persian silk tree extract for brightening and pomegranate flower to lift and firm the appearance of skin, this lightweight serum reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, resulting in a radiant, visibly rejuvenated complexion. Suitable for all skin types, the luxuriously textured formula sinks in effortlessly for impressive, plant-powered results.

If you want to find out more about our powerful serums, check out this article.