Vitamin C is a powerhouse that helps produce collagen, repair signs of aging, and brighten the skin. It’s an antioxidant that all skin types can tolerate, making it a wunderkind of the skincare industry. Top dermatologists favor it, and a new generation of high-potency, lightweight Vitamin C treatments is making it more effective than ever. With its proven benefits, Vitamin C instills confidence in your skincare routine. Read on for tips on how to incorporate it effectively.

WHAT DOES VITAMIN C DO FOR YOUR SKIN?

Vitamin C, an antioxidant naturally found in the skin, acts as a shield, protecting skin cells from the damaging effects of free radicals generated by exposure to environmental aggressors. Topical vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid or l-ascorbic acid, is a highly effective skin-care ingredient, offering a myriad of proven benefits. It promotes brighter, smoother, more even skin with fewer blemishes, blackheads, dark spots, and fine lines, providing a reassuring layer of protection for your skin.

FORMS OF VITAMIN C 

The most common active derivative of vitamin C found in skin care (and generally, the easiest one to spot on an ingredient list) is ascorbic/L-ascorbic acid, which is the most effective at penetrating the skin barrier, though is less stable than other forms. This means the product can oxidize when exposed to light and air, so the packaging matters––look for dark and/or opaque bottles and application methods that prevent exposure to either. 

In our award-winning BL+ The Serum, we use ascorbyl glucoside, which is considered a superior form of vitamin C for several reasons: 

Enhanced Stability: Ascorbyl glucoside is more stable than pure ascorbic acid (vitamin C). Pure ascorbic acid can oxidize and degrade quickly when exposed to light, air, and heat, reducing its effectiveness. Ascorbyl glucoside stays stable longer, ensuring the product remains potent over time. 

Better Penetration: Ascorbyl glucoside is water-soluble, allowing it to penetrate the skin more effectively than other forms of vitamin C. This ensures that the active ingredient can reach deeper layers of the skin to deliver its benefits. 

Gradual Conversion: Ascorbyl glucoside converts to ascorbic acid once it is absorbed by the skin. This gradual conversion ensures a steady supply of vitamin C to the skin, providing prolonged antioxidant protection and other benefits. 

Reduced Irritation: Some forms of vitamin C, especially at higher concentrations, can cause irritation, redness, and stinging, particularly in sensitive skin types. Ascorbyl glucoside is generally gentler on the skin, making it suitable for a wider range of skin types, including sensitive skin. 

All BL+ formulas are packaged in durable, reusable, and light-resistant UV glass to maximize the formula's shelf life.  

WHEN TO USE VITAMIN C 

Because vitamin C protects against free radicals, dermatologists have always recommended applying it as part of your morning routine to prevent damage during the day. Applying vitamin C in the evening also has benefits, namely, its ability to help reduce hyperpigmentation and increase collagen production. 

HOW TO LAYER VITAMIN C 

Vitamin C is a versatile ingredient that works well with several other skincare ingredients to enhance its benefits and provide comprehensive skin care. Ingredients that pair well with vitamin C include: 

Hyaluronic Acid: Known for its hydrating properties, hyaluronic acid draws moisture into the skin, keeping it plump and hydrated. When paired with vitamin C, it can help improve skin texture and provide a more radiant complexion. This powerhouse ingredient duo can be found in BL+ The Serum and BL+ Eye Serum. 

Niacinamide: This ingredient helps to soothe and calm the skin while improving its barrier function. When used with vitamin C, it can enhance skin brightness, even out skin tone, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. We recommend layering BL+ The Serum, which contains vitamin C, with BL+ The Cream with niacinamide. 

Retinol: Combining vitamin C with retinol can provide powerful anti-aging benefits. Vitamin C protects the skin from free radical damage during the day, while retinol promotes cell turnover and collagen production at night. It's best to use vitamin C in the morning and retinol, like BL+ Retinol 0.3%,  in the evening to maximize their benefits and minimize irritation.