Can Vitamin C serum help reduce wrinkles and pigmentation? – Times of India

Vitamin C serum seems to be the latest beauty fad. It appears that post-pandemic the world has moved on from creams and lotions to revitalizing serums that offer far-reaching solutions to deeper skin issues. But what are serums?
Skin serums are lightweight, concentrated skincare products designed to address specific skin problems. They are formulated in a way that they can deliver nutrients to the skin directly and are thinner than lotions and creams.Serums have greater penetrating power and can be incorporated into both morning and evening skincare routines. Vitamin C serum is one such antioxidant-rich product.
Role of Vitamin C serum in skincare
Vitamin C serum is believed to have a significant role in skincare due to its antioxidant properties which help promote a clear and wrinkle-free complexion. It is said to protect the skin from environmental damage caused by free radicals, including UV radiation and pollution. Additionally, Vitamin C aids in the synthesis of collagen, a crucial protein that maintains skin’s firmness and elasticity, resulting in improved skin texture. It also assists in fading hyperpigmentation and dark spots, promoting a more even skin tone.
Vitamin C serum for hyperpigmentation
“Addressing the widespread issue of pigmentation that is faced by almost everyone these days, Vitamin C emerges as a potent combat solution. The addition of this serum can illuminate complexion, erasing dark spots, and chasing away dullness. But the choice of Vitamin C isn’t trivial; it should be lightweight, non-sticky, and, above all, Liposomal,” says Sachi A Mittal, Entrepreneur and Beauty Expert, OTT skincare.
“This specialized variant penetrates deep into your skin layers, unlocking its full potential. And why stop there? Any skincare solution you use must not only limit itself to the persistent concern but also add quality to your routine. Elevate your skincare ritual by embracing the dynamic duo of Vitamin C serum with either Brighlette, Witch Hazel, Green Tea, or Hyaluronic Acid. These potent additions enhance your serum’s effectiveness, ensuring your skin’s radiant journey is nothing short of exceptional,” she adds.

Daily routine for a blemish-free skin
“Before sleeping, cleansing your skin of the dirt and oil collected throughout the day and then moisturizing is very crucial for skin health. I recommend some steps to have a consistent night skincare routine. First, it doesn’t need to be right before you sleep. Find a time comfortable for you, when you get home in the evening or when you are done with dinner. Second, keep it simple. Use less but impactful products and no waiting in between applications. And lastly, moisturizing is crucial. During the day, a moisturizer can feel greasy, but at night you can give your skin all the nourishment it needs,” says Sezal Jain, Founder, Loud Skin.
Is Vitamin C serum actually good for the skin?
A skincare legend, Vitamin C serum is revered for its wealth of advantages. Maintaining skin suppleness and preventing wrinkles and fine lines require collagen. Utilizing Vitamin C serum on a regular basis helps promote collagen formation, keeping your skin firm and youthful. It also bestows necessary hydration, leaving skin plump and supple, with some formulas enhanced with moisturizing products like hyaluronic acid. Beyond aesthetic benefits, this serum promotes scar fading and wound healing, and its anti-inflammatory effects calm inflamed skin and reduce redness, says Paridhi Goel, beauty expert at Love Earth.

How to apply Vitamin C serum?
“The best time to apply Vitamin C is morning. After cleansing, apply Vitamin C serum before applying sunscreen. Start with a lower concentration of Vitamin C serum and then gradually build up the concentration as it suits the skin. Avoid using a Vitamin C serum on dry sensitive skin. Avoid using Vitamin C with retinol or AHAs/ BHAs. If retinol is to be used, use it at night and Vitamin C in the morning,” says Dr. Ishmeet Kaur, MBBS, MD Dermatology, Director and Co-Founder of Dermosphere Clinic.
Role of a balanced diet
A balanced diet is significant in maintaining wrinkle-free skin by providing essential nutrients for soft, supple, and young-looking skin. A diet high in antioxidants, such as Vitamins A, C, and E, helps combat oxidative stress and free radicals, which are major contributors to skin aging and wrinkles. Besides, protein intake supports the production of collagen and elastin which keep the skin firm and wrinkle-free. The role of hydration cannot be undermined as it prevents the appearance of fine lines on the skin.
“Maintaining a healthy diet is important for clear and healthy skin. While there are no specific foods that guarantee perfect skin, certain nutrients can support skin health and help improve its texture. Foods rich in Omega 3 Fatty Acids and Vitamin C help prevent aging and they should be part of one’s regular diet along with a healthy beauty routine”, says Dr. Ishmeet Kaur.