Health & Beauty Care

 

Sources of Vitamin "C" (Ascorbic Acid) and Skin Care

Vitamin C is found primarily in fruits and vegetables. Good sources include:

• Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruits)
• Berries (strawberries, blackcurrants, raspberries)
• Kiwi
• Papaya
• Mango
• Pineapple
• Guava
• Bell peppers (especially red peppers)
• Broccoli
• Brussels sprouts
• Spinach and other leafy greens
• Tomatoes

Cooking can reduce vitamin C content, so raw or lightly cooked sources are best.

 

Vitamin C Deficiency Disease:

 The main disease caused by vitamin C deficiency is scurvy.

Scurvy Symptoms:

• Fatigue and weakness
• Swollen, bleeding gums
• Loose teeth
• Joint pain
• Bruising easily
• Dry, scaly skin
• Poor wound healing
• Anemia

Scurvy is rare in modern times in developed countries, but can occur with very poor nutrition or in people with restrictive diets.

✼❋Vitamin C is a popular and effective ingredient in skincare because of its antioxidant, brightening, and collagen-boosting properties. Here’s how it helps and how to use it in your skincare routine:

 

Benefits of Vitamin C for Skin:

1. Brightens Skin Tone: Helps reduce dullness and even out skin tone.
2. Fades Hyperpigmentation: Reduces dark spots, acne scars, and sunspots.
3. Boosts Collagen Production: Improves skin elasticity and reduces fine lines and wrinkles.
4. Protects Against Sun Damage: Neutralizes free radicals caused by UV exposure (but it’s not a sunscreen).
5. Improves Hydration: Some vitamin C products are formulated with hydrating ingredients.

                         

How to Use Vitamin C in Skincare:

• Form: Look for serums with L-ascorbic acid (most potent), or gentler forms like sodium ascorbyl phosphate.
• Concentration: Start with 10–15%; sensitive skin might prefer lower strengths.
• When to Use: Apply in the morning after cleansing and before moisturizing and sunscreen.
• Storage: Vitamin C is unstable—choose dark or opaque bottles, and store away from heat and light.