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What Does Vitamin C Serum Do?

As children, many of us learned about vitamin C through a simple orange. The message was clear: it was good for us. Today, vitamin C has left the fruit bowl and taken centre stage in skincare. It is now one of the most talked-about ingredients, especially in serums that have become staples in countless routines. 

But what does vitamin C serum actually do for your skin? 

The Benefits of Vitamin C Serum 

Vitamin C serum works on multiple levels to keep your complexion looking healthy and vibrant: 

  • Brightens and evens tone, which helps visibly fade the appearance of dark spots and smooth discoloration. 
  • Shields against free radicals that can contribute to dullness, fine lines, and premature aging caused by pollution and UV exposure. 
  • Supports the look of collagen-rich skin to maintain elasticity and firmness, helping skin look smoother and more resilient over time. 

These combined effects explain why vitamin C serum is considered a foundation of many effective skincare routines. 

How to Use Vitamin C Serum 

Vitamin C serum is most effective when used in the morning, when your skin faces the greatest exposure to environmental stressors. 

How to apply it: 

  1. Cleanse your face. 
  2. Apply a few drops of serum to the face and neck using gentle upward motions. 
  3. Allow it to absorb before applying moisturiser and SPF. 

Pairing vitamin C with sunscreen provides daily protection against UV rays and pollution, two of the leading causes of damaged-looking skin and visible aging.

Young woman applying vitamin C serum on cheek, showing skincare benefits for radiant skin

How Often Should You Use It? 

Vitamin C serum can be used every day. Most people apply it once in the morning, though some add it to their evening routine as well. If you also use strong actives such as retinol or exfoliating acids, save those for nighttime to minimise discomfort. 

Standard vitamin C (ascorbic acid) can lose effectiveness quickly when exposed to air and light. Choosing a stable form, such as Vitamin C Ester, ensures the serum remains potent and effective for longer. 

When Will You See Results? 

Vitamin C starts working immediately to strengthen the skin’s barrier function. With consistent use, visible improvements such as a brighter complexion and smoother texture often appear within four to eight weeks. 

Clinical research has shown that stable, high-quality formulas can improve radiance, reduce uneven tone, and enhance firmness with continued use. 

What Is Vitamin C Ester? 

Vitamin C Ester is a fat-soluble form of vitamin C that is more stable than traditional ascorbic acid. Because it absorbs more seamlessly into the skin, it delivers greater antioxidant protection and longer-lasting results. 

This advanced form combines all the well-known benefits of vitamin C with improved stability and gentleness, making it especially effective for daily use. 

Does Vitamin C Serum Cause Breakouts? 

Vitamin C itself does not clog pores, but sensitivities can sometimes cause breakouts if the formula is too strong for your skin. To avoid this, start with a lower concentration and increase gradually. Stable, high-quality serums will be more effective at providing benefits while maintaining your skin’s protective barrier.Perricone MD Vitamin C Ester skincare collection with serums, moisturizer, and exfoliating polish

What Foods Contain Vitamin C? 

Vitamin C is not only important in skincare but also in your diet. Eating foods rich in this nutrient helps support collagen production, strengthen the immune system, and maintain natural energy levels. 

Some of the best dietary sources of vitamin C include: 

  • Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits 
  • Strawberries and kiwis 
  • Bell peppers 
  • Tomatoes 
  • Leafy greens like spinach and kale 

Pairing vitamin C-rich foods with a topical serum ensures your skin gets the best of both. Vitamin C serums encourage a more resilient, radiant complexion. 

Final Thoughts 

From childhood oranges to advanced skincare formulas, vitamin C has always been a vital part of health and wellbeing. So, what does vitamin C serum do? It noticeably brightens, protects, and firms the skin, helping you achieve a radiant and resilient complexion when used daily.

perriconemd
perriconemd Writer and expert

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