Biggest Skincare Myths Around Vitamin C, Debunked!

All Vitamin C is Created Equal

All Vitamin C derivatives can be potentially irritating, however the most common references to Vitamin C “myths” are primarily in relation to L-Ascorbic Acid (aka Pure Vitamin C), which is water-soluble, found in some foods and present in human skin. Although it’s unstable (oxidises when exposed to air/light/heat), it is an active form of Vitamin C, so it’s bioavailable and ready for immediate use.

Here at essano we use a lesser known, but just as powerful derivative of Vitamin C called Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate. This derivative differs from L-Ascorbic Acid in that it is oil soluble and effectively converts to Ascorbic Acid within the skin and has excellent absorption, while being heat and oxygen stable. This means many of the myths about Vitamin C as a skincare ingredient, don’t always apply to our Vitamin C products.

Vitamin C Irritates Sensitive Skin

It's true that L-Ascorbic Acid is potent and can irritate sensitive skin in high concentrations. However, at essano, we use alternative Vitamin C derivative, Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate, as the active ingredient in our low-irritation formulations to offer many benefits from protection against free radicals and anti-inflammatory properties, to skin cell repair and improved skin barrier function. It’s also suitable for all skin types from sensitive and sun damaged, to dry or ageing.

Vitamin C Can’t be used with Other Active Ingredients

While it’s typically not recommended to combine Pure Vitamin C with AHAs, BHAs and Retinoids, a gentler version like our Advanced Brightening Vitamin C Serum can be layered with other skincare actives. To reduce the likelihood of irritation you can use them at alternative times in your skincare routine to experience the benefits of both products. Use Vitamin C in the morning to protect against free-radical damage during the day and apply your Retinoids at night to aid in recovery and repair. Our comprehensive Serums 101 guide provides expert advice on layering serums, including using Vitamin C alongside our natural alternative to Retinol.

Vitamin Discolours Your Skin

Worried that Vitamin C might leave you glowing like an orange? Fear not! Vitamin C won't tan or discolour your skin. Instead, it works diligently to fade sunspots and UV-induced pigmentation, revealing a more even, light and bright complexion. However, when not stored properly, L-Ascorbic Acid can oxidise, become less effective and cause a temporary tanning effect – this is not an issue with our Advances Brightening Vitamin C Serum and Vitamin C Super Glow Facial Oil – both of which contain the oil-soluble Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate, which doesn’t react with oxygen and maintains its efficacy.

Skin Becomes More Resistant to Vitamin C Over Time

Skin becomes resistant to active ingredients when the number of receptors decrease. Because Vitamin C does not work through any specific receptor in the skin, this cannot happen. In fact, consistency is the key to reaping the full benefits of using Vitamin C. Once you find a Vitamin C product that suits your skin, make it a staple in your skincare routine to achieve long-lasting results. Our Vitamin C Brightening Radiant Skincare Bundle is ideal for getting started with a consistent Vitamin C regime.

Ingesting Vitamin C Provides Better Skin Benefits

The idea that ingesting Vitamin C provides the same skin benefits as topical application is a particularly misleading myth. Vitamin C is great for your body, but when consumed and absorbed via digestion, it doesn’t necessarily reach the skin - topical application is the most direct method to reap Vitamin C benefits. To maximise results, apply Vitamin C topically and complement this with a well-rounded diet to support overall skin health.

Now that we’ve debunked commonly held myths about Vitamin C, you can confidently harness its power to achieve radiant and healthy skin. Say goodbye to myths and hello to a skincare routine that can work wonders for all skin types!