Ingredient Encyclopedia

Welcome to the Ingredient Encyclopedia

Discover what’s inside your skincare — from retinol to aloe vera — with clear guides on benefits, uses, and safety.

All articles active aha alcohol-free alias allantoin almond aloe-vera alpha-arbutin antioxidant ascorbic-acid avocado azelaic-acid b5 bakuchiol barrier benzoyl-peroxide beta-glucan bha botanical castor castor oil centella ceramides cica cleanser coffee coffee seed oil egcg emollient ferment general gluconolactone glycerin glycolic-acid green-tea humectant hyaluronic-acid hydration ingredient k-beauty keratolytic kojic-acid lactic-acid licorice-root mandelic-acid matrixyl micellar water moisture niacinamide panthenol peptides pha plant oil preservative retinal retinol rice salicylic-acid sensitive skin squalane surfactant toner tranexamic-acid urea uv uv-filter vitamin-a vitamin-b3 vitamin-c witch hazel zinc-pca

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Vitamin C is a brightening antioxidant that supports collagen production and helps protect skin from environmental stressors such as UV damage and pollution [PubMed Study]. ✨ What is Vitamin C? Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a water-soluble antioxidant naturally found in the skin. When applied topically, it helps reduce free radical damage, support collagen synthesis, and visibly improve skin tone. 💛 Key Benefits Brightens and evens skin tone [PubMed] Boosts collagen for firmer, smoother skin Protects against free radicals and pollution Helps fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation over time 🌤️ Who Should Use It? Anyone with dull or uneven skin tone Those targeting dark spots or discoloration Normal to oily skin types (L-ascorbic acid is ideal) ⚠️ Who Should Avoid It? Very sensitive skin types (try gentler derivatives like magnesium ascorbyl phosphate) Those easily irritated by low-pH formulas ☀️ How to Use Vitamin C Apply in the morning before moisturizer and SPF [Study] Pairs perfectly with sunscreen to enhance photoprotection Avoid layering directly with strong exfoliants to prevent irritation 🌟 Verdict Vitamin C is a must-have daytime antioxidant! Start with a lower concentration if you have sensitive skin or opt for stable derivatives. For best results, use daily with sunscreen. 👉 Looking for a gentle, radiant option? Try our Nature’s Vitamin C – Lemon, Orange & Tangerine Seed Facial Oil 30 ml . ❓ FAQs Is Vitamin C safe for sensitive skin?Many find it tolerable—just patch test first [DermNet NZ]. Can I combine Vitamin C with other actives?Yes, but introduce slowly. Avoid over-exfoliating to minimize irritation. How long until I see results?Usually within 4–8 weeks of consistent daily use [PubMed]. Related: Niacinamide Guide · Retinol Guide · Hyaluronic Acid Guide 📚 References Pullar JM, Carr AC, Vissers MCM. “The Roles of Vitamin C in Skin Health.” Nutrients (2017) Telang PS. “Vitamin C in Dermatology.” Indian Dermatol Online J (2013)

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