You already know that Vitamin C is essential for overall health and wellness. But Vitamin C offers so much more than the immune-boosting properties that you probably already know it for – it is also a skincare powerhouse.
Read on to discover the many benefits of Vitamin C and how it can improve the appearance of your skin with its skin whitening capabilities.
Vitamin C for Skin Whitening: How Does It Work
Most people try various methods to achieve whiter and brighter skin, one of which involves the use of expensive, high-end products to achieve their desired results. But if you are looking for a less costly and natural alternative to skin whitening, you should consider Vitamin C.
But how does it work? How does Vitamin C give us the results of whiter, brighter skin?
- It inhibits the formation of melanin pigments.
Because of its antioxidant capability, Vitamin C can indirectly inhibit the activity of tyrosinase, thus reducing melanogenesis (the production of the pigment melanin in the skin). The less melanin you produce, the lighter your skin will be as a result.
- It can help prevent sun damage.
When skin is exposed to UV light, damaging molecules known as free radicals can attack cells and collagen – your skin’s support structure. This can trigger inflammation and result in wrinkles and sunspots. As a potent antioxidant, Vitamin C can protect your skin – it neutralizes free radicals and reduces inflammation, minimizing its effects.
- It stops biochemical reactions that cause uneven pigmentation.
Vitamin C can stop biochemical reactions that result in uneven pigmentation. This can help effectively brighten your skin.
Using Vitamin C for Skin Whitening: Top 2 Methods to Get More Vitamin C
Now that you have a better understanding of how Vitamin C works, let’s delve into some of the best methods to help you achieve whiter and brighter skin.
- Include plenty of Vitamin C-rich foods in your daily diet.
The simplest way to consume ample amounts of Vitamin C is by eating foods rich in it.
Unfortunately, the body cannot make Vitamin C on its own. Therefore, you have to include plenty of Vitamin C-rich foods in your daily diet. Fortunately, there are a lot of foods that are rich in Vitamin C. Some of the best sources of Vitamin C include citrus fruits like orange, grapefruit, and lemon; and vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli, and capsicums. Other Vitamin C-rich fruits include strawberries, papaya, and cantaloupe.
Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables doesn’t just raise your body’s Vitamin C levels, but it is also great for your overall health.
- Take Vitamin C supplements for skin whitening.
Taking Vitamin C supplements is a common and effective way to get more of this vitamin and achieve lighter skin. For the best results, choose products that not only contain Vitamin C, but also Glutathione. Some products may even include collagen, which is beneficial for those who are looking for anti-aging benefits.
As a rule of thumb, the healthy amount of Vitamin C for an individual depends on their age, gender, and weight. The recommended daily amount of Vitamin C for adult women is 75mg and for adult men is 75mg. Note: Make sure to talk to your doctor before taking any supplements to avoid possible drug interactions.
The Takeaway
Whether you’re prone to skin blemishes, have dry skin, or if you want to achieve a lighter skin tone, Vitamin C will serve you well.
It has been linked to many impressive skincare benefits, such as inhibiting the formation of melanin pigments, preventing sun damage, and stopping biochemical reactions that cause uneven pigmentation.
Whether you choose to get Vitamin C from your daily diet or through supplements, you can’t go wrong with including it in your skincare routine.