Vitamin C Beauty Benefits

We are always being told to make sure we get our vits, but did you know that vitamins (and minerals!) in beauty products possess powerful benefits for the health of our skin, hair and nails. Today, we are going to share with you the top beauty benefits of vitamin C. 

Anti-ageing; vitamin C is essential for collagen production. Collagen is one of two structural proteins in our body (the other being elastin). As we age, collagen production decreases and this causes skin to lose firmness and eventually sag. An improvement in collagen production enhances the skin's firmness and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 

Vitamin C is also a powerful antioxidant which helps to neutralise free radicals, preventing premature ageing of the skin and minimising fine lines, wrinkles and uneven skin tone. Vitamin C and vitamin E work particularly well together. Vitamin E is a peroxyl radical scavenger, which means it reacts with this type of free radical to form a tocopherol radical (vitamin E with the addition of the free radical). When vitamin C is present, it will act as a hydrogen donor to create a stable molecule, leaving the vitamin E molecule whole. 

Treats irritation and inflammation; with its antioxidant properties teamed with moisturising capabilities, vitamin C can help calm irritated skin, reduce redness and acne breakouts, and act as a natural anti-inflammatory. 

Cleansing; vitamin C is an antibacterial agent and coupled with its antioxidant properties makes an effective cleansing agent that washes away impurities without causing dryness, redness or irritation.

Moisturising; vitamin C in skincare helps to relieve dry skin, and has even proven to be beneficial for skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. Using products rich in this vital vitamin could also be beneficial as it helps the skin cells repair damaged tissues. A 2007 study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that vitamin C intake from food sources was linked with less age-related skin dryness and a less wrinkled appearance  in middle-aged women.

Protects; Vitamin C can also be used directly on the skin as a protection technique against harmful rays and pollutants.

Dietary vitamin C for healthy hair; vitamin C is essential for absorbing iron in the body, and in turn iron is very important for strong and healthy hair.

Remember, if you want to ensure maximum beauty benefits it’s best to eat a well-balanced diet embracing a rainbow of fresh vegetables and fruits, and use the best natural and organic skincare you can afford.