The popular beauty ingredient Vitamin C
Whitening, wrinkle prevention , skin firmness. Vitamin C is included in cosmetics as an ingredient to promote various skin improvements. In anticipation of such high effects, some products contain it in fairly high concentrations.
But can vitamin C really have any beauty benefits? Also, is it okay for people with sensitive skin to use cosmetics containing vitamin C?
Vitamin C's skin-beautifying effects
According to information from Harvard Medical School , vitamin C has many skin-beautifying benefits, including:
Wrinkle Improvement
Vitamin C is said to help with collagen production and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. This has been proven in multiple clinical studies. One study showed that daily use of vitamin C for three months reduced the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the face and neck. Other studies have also shown that it improved the texture and appearance of skin.
UV Protection
It is said that using sunscreen and vitamin C together can help protect your skin from UV rays. It is also effective for aftercare after exposure to UV rays. There are also studies that show that using vitamin C together with vitamin E and other vitamins can reduce redness and prevent damage caused by UV rays.
Whitening effect
Vitamin C inhibits pigment production in the skin. This effect is said to make dark spots less noticeable. In one clinical trial , most subjects who applied a cream containing vitamin C saw their dark spots improve. However, further research is needed on the whitening effect of vitamin C.
Sebum control
Vitamin C is said to have anti-inflammatory properties. It has been shown to control sebum secretion and may be effective against acne. Clinical trials have shown that applying vitamin C twice a day reduced acne compared to a placebo.
None of the studies above reported any major side effects from using vitamin C on the skin. However, there are not many clinical trials that have studied the cosmetic effects of vitamin C. More research is needed to ensure its effectiveness and safety.
Is Vitamin C good for sensitive skin?
When you learn about the many skin-beautifying effects that vitamin C can have, you're sure to want to try it. But is it okay for people with sensitive skin who are easily irritated to use cosmetics containing vitamin C?
The answer is yes.
Unless the vitamin C is highly concentrated, it is likely that it can be used even on sensitive skin.
For example, ascorbyl palmitate is a popular derivative of vitamin C. It has an EWG safety rating of "2" and has not been shown to pose any risk of skin irritation or allergies.
In addition, ascorbic acid, also known as pure vitamin C, has also been rated "1" . This is also highly regarded for its safety.
However, some people may find the vitamin C content irritating.
Be especially careful with products that are highly concentrated. There is also a possibility that the ingredients used together with the product may be PG , DPG , essential oils , fragrances , or other ingredients that can cause strong irritation.
If you experience any of the following symptoms, discontinue use.
- itch
- Redness
- swelling
- inflammation
- Tingling or hot flashes
Symptoms may be particularly likely to occur in areas with thin skin, such as around the eyes. Before using, it is a good idea to check all ingredients to make sure they do not contain any ingredients that may irritate the skin or cause an allergic reaction.
Not suitable for use by children
Studies on the safety and side effects of vitamin C have only been conducted on adults. There have been few studies on small children, so the risks are unknown. For that reason, it is best to refrain from using it on small children.
As children enter the upper grades of elementary school and adolescence, more and more of them start to worry about acne.
In that case, rather than relying on commercially available vitamin C serums, it is recommended that you consult a dermatologist and receive the appropriate treatment.
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CONCIO: Skin care products developed through extensive research into the risks of cosmetic ingredients
CONCIO is the first additive-free skin care product in Japan to receive EWG certification, meeting new standards.
Focusing on the risk of skin irritation and allergies caused by cosmetic ingredients, we strictly adhere to our own safety standards and do not use 2,500 ingredients.
We deliver world-class peace of mind to sensitive skin in Japan.
*This does not guarantee that skin irritation or allergies will not occur in all people.