Vitamin C- Why it is essential in the daily skincare routine.

Exposure to UV light generates Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) in the skin, such as the superoxide ion, peroxide, and singlet oxygen, causing oxidative stress. Vitamin C protects the skin from this oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals. It works by donating electrons sequentially to counteract the effects of ROS.

UV light exposure can reduce the amount of vitamin C in the skin, which can cause further damage. ROS can directly alter the cellular DNA, cell membrane, and cellular proteins, including collagen.

Antioxidants such as vitamin C are essential for neutralizing ROS caused by UV exposure. It is worth noting that vitamin C is equally effective against both UVB (290-320 nm) and UVA (320-400 nm) radiation.

Sunscreens, when properly applied, prevent UV-induced erythema and thymine dimer mutations that contribute to cutaneous carcinogenesis. However, they block only 55% of the free radicals UV exposure produces. Photo-aging can be prevented by preventing UV-induced erythema and sunburn cell formation and inducing collagen repair. To optimize UV protection, it is essential to use sunscreens combined with a topical antioxidant. Vitamin C does not absorb UV light but exerts a protective effect by neutralizing free radicals, which is not seen with sunscreens. Under laboratory conditions, applying 10% topical vitamin C showed a statistical reduction of UVB-induced erythema by 52% and sunburn cell formation by 40-60%.

Various vitamin C derivatives are used in cosmetics for external use. Numerous studies show that vitamin C supports collagen synthesis and fights free radicals. It is also effective against acne and age spots by inhibiting tyrosinase.

 References 1. Talakoub L, Neuhaus IM, Yu SS. Cosmeceuticals, in Alam M, Gladstone HB, Tung RC (eds.). Cosmetic Dermatology. Vol. 1. Requisites in Dermatology. 1st ed. Gurgaon: Saunders Elsevier; 2009, 13–4 2. Traikovich SS. Use of topical ascorbic acid and its effects on photo-damaged skin topography. Arch. Otorhinol. Head Neck Surg. 1999; 125:1091–8 3. Farris PK. Cosmetical vitamins: Vitamin C, in Draelos ZD, Dover JS, Alam M (eds.). Cosmeceuticals. Procedures in Cosmetic Dermatology. 2nd ed. New York: Saunders Elsevier; 2009, 51–6. 4. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vitamin_C 5. Matsuda S, Shibayama H, Hisama M