Dr Joshua Zeichner, director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York, previously told MBG that vitamin C serums are typically used to brighten skin, even skin tone, and combat oxidative stress. As a Topically applied antioxidantnotes that vitamin C “protects the skin against free radicals, blocks the production of abnormal pigmentation and acts as a cofactor for the production of new collagen.”
The only catch? When exposed to air, heat, or light, ascorbic acid (the most effective form of topical vitamin C) may become less effective in providing the skin benefits of vitamin C. However, research shows that combining vitamin C with other antioxidants can help stabilize vitamin C and improve its bioefficacy in topical products.
TO 2017 review article from The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology found that combining vitamin C with the plant-based antioxidant ferulic acid helps stabilize vitamin C molecules. In addition, ferulic acid helps reduce the pH of ascorbic acid below 3.5, proving to be an effective method to improve the permeability of vitamin C (i.e., ability to absorb) when applied to the skin.
the beauty director of mindbodygreen, Alexandra Englerswear by the C+E+Marie Veronique Ferulic Acid Serum to help reinforce C’s collagen production capabilities. “It’s a great formula that delivers seriously,” she says. For additional Engler recommendations, see his list of best vitamin c serums available today.
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