Vitamin C and skin brightening

Vitamin C is known for its antioxidant properties. In skincare, it has become a star ingredient of radiance routines: it helps fade dark spots, even out skin tone and maintain the skin's firmness. Here is what you need to know.

The role of vitamin C in the body

Vitamin C (or ascorbic acid) is a water-soluble vitamin that the human body cannot produce: it must come from our diet. It notably contributes to collagen formation and to protecting cells against oxidative stress.

The benefits of vitamin C for the skin

• Radiance: it helps revive a dull complexion.
• Dark spots: it slows melanin production and helps fade the appearance of pigmentation spots.
• Firmness: it contributes to collagen synthesis, which keeps skin supple.
• Protection: as an antioxidant, it helps skin cope with external aggressors (pollution, UV). It does not replace sun protection.

How does it act on pigmentation?

Vitamin C slows the activity of tyrosinase, the enzyme involved in making melanin. Less melanin means a more even complexion and less noticeable spots over the weeks.

Different ways to use vitamin C

Vitamin C comes from food (citrus fruit, kiwi, peppers…), from skincare applied to the skin (serums, creams) or from patches. In skincare, choose a stabilised form, because vitamin C oxidises easily when exposed to air and light.

How to add it to your routine

• Apply it in the morning to clean skin, before your moisturiser.
• Always finish with sun protection.
• Consistency matters: effects on radiance and spots show after a few weeks.
• Pair it with glutathione, a complementary antioxidant, for a complete radiance routine.