Vitamin C – How much is too much?

Vitamin C, as we know, is an excellent antioxidant and a must have in our skin care routine. But many wonder, is too much, well, too much?

The benefits of vitamin C are many. Vitamin C simulates the production of collagen and elastin – components of the skin that break down as we age. Vitamin C helps to fight off reactive oxygen species, also known as free radicals. Vitamin C helps to increase photo-protection, address fine lines and wrinkles and brings clarity to the skin.

Numerous studies have been done on vitamin C and it is in many cosmeceuticals worldwide, but many of the current studies show that the skin utilizes and benefits the most from vitamin C concentrations between 15-20%. Consider products like SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic or Cellex-C High Potency Serum.

The eye area also benefits from vitamin C; however, because the eye area is also more delicate than the rest of the skin, less vitamin C should be used in this area. Experts recommend we use between 7-10% around the eye area to eliminate the possibility of irritation.

Skin that is acclimated to vitamin C can use higher concentrations of this active, these recommendations are simply best for those that are initially using vitamin C or have sensitive skin.