5 Reasons You Will Love Vitamin C

By Trisha Chawla

Vitamin C is the most popular active ingredient among dermatologists and skin care enthusiasts. Known as ascorbic acid, this ingredient is a hot topic in the beauty industry and can help you achieve healthy, bright skin. Few compounds have as many uses as this antioxidant; it improves skin tone, fine wrinkles, rough texture, acne scars, and dullness. Whew, that’s a tall order, but we know you love a multi-tasker. 

If you're still not convinced, read on for the lowdown on this skincare superstar that will soon be a mainstay on your vanity, too.

1. STRONG PROTECTOR 
Long hours in the sun with polluted air are never kind to your skin. It triggers the release of highly unstable molecules called free radicals that damage cells and cause dullness, dryness, and wrinkles. Vitamin C is an antioxidant, which means one of its main functions is to protect your skin against this damage by hunting down rebellious free radicals. 
 
2. BARRIER BUILDER  
We know you love a hydrating face mask, but if your skin still feels dehydrated after a week-long mask-a-thon, it may be time to turn to Vitamin C. It strengthens your skin barrier and prevents the loss of water from your skin’s surface. A stronger skin barrier will mean moisture stays locked in for longer, leading to softer and supple skin. 
 
3. BFFs WITH COLLAGEN 
Collagen is responsible for maintaining your skin’s tautness and structure. As we grow older, collagen production naturally slows down, leading to the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and sagging skin. Vitamin C plays an essential role in building collagen and can help your skin look healthy even as you age. 

4. GLOW GETTER 
Ready to hit your glow goals? Vitamin C is a legendary skin-brightening ingredient. You can count on it to give you an even complexion and reduce dullness for a lit-from-within glow.  
 
5. BLEMISH FIGHTER 
Thanks to its brightening properties, vitamin C can help to lighten dark spots, blemishes, and pigmentation—one of the most common concerns for Indian skin types like yours. It does this by inhibiting excess production of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its colour. It’s just like Instagram’s Paris filter, only you’ll never need to use one again.