We all know that sun safety doesn't take a break over the winter. In fact, winter sun safety is just as important as in the summer months. The sun’s rays can still cause skin damage, and the cold, dry air can leave your skin feeling parched and looking dull.
That’s where Vitamin C comes in. And, no, it isn't just a powerful oral supplement you can take to fight oncoming cold symptoms. This antioxidant is also a game-changer for achieving radiant, protected, and healthy skin throughout the chilly months. Read on for the 7 secret skin care benefits of using Vitamin C.
1. Brightens Dull Winter Skin
Winter weather often leaves skin looking lackluster and dull due to a decrease in moisture and exposure to harsh winds. According to dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, M.D., "[Vitamin C] protects the skin against UV light and other environmental aggressors, as well as blocking abnormal production of pigmentation to even skin tone and fade dark spots."
2. Boosts Collagen Production for Firmer Skin
As we age, our skin naturally produces less collagen, the protein responsible for keeping our skin firm and plump. Cold, dry winter air can accelerate this process. Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis, helping to maintain skin elasticity and minimize fine lines and wrinkles. By incorporating Vitamin C into your skincare routine, you can maintain firmer, smoother skin even as the temperatures drop.
3. Provides Antioxidant Protection Against Free Radicals
Winter doesn’t only mean chilly winds; it also brings environmental stressors like pollution and UV rays, which can damage your skin with free radicals. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that helps neutralize these free radicals, reducing oxidative stress on your skin. This protection is vital in winter when we tend to spend more time indoors near dry heating systems, which can dehydrate the skin.
4. Enhances Sun Protection
Many people assume that sun protection isn’t necessary in the winter, but that’s a myth. UV rays still penetrate the atmosphere even when it’s cold outside. In fact, the sun can be even stronger when reflected off snow, increasing your risk of sunburn. Vitamin C helps to enhance the effectiveness of your sunscreen by providing additional protection against harmful UV rays. This double layer of defense is especially important in winter, when the skin is more vulnerable to sun damage.
5. Fights Dryness with Hydration
Winter is notorious for causing dry skin, and Vitamin C can help combat this issue by enhancing your skin’s natural moisture barrier. It helps to retain water in the skin, preventing dehydration and promoting a more hydrated, supple appearance. If you struggle with flaky, tight skin in the winter, incorporating a Vitamin C-infused product can make a significant difference in your moisture levels.
6. Reduces Redness and Irritation
If you’re prone to redness or irritation during the colder months, Vitamin C can offer some relief. Its anti-inflammatory properties help to calm the skin and reduce inflammation caused by exposure to cold weather or harsh skincare treatments.
7. Accelerates Skin Repair
The colder months can leave your skin vulnerable to damage and irritation. Vitamin C plays a crucial role in repairing and regenerating damaged skin. Whether you’re dealing with the aftermath of acne scars, sunspots, or general winter wear and tear, Vitamin C can speed up the healing process.
How to Incorporate Vitamin C Into Your Winter Skin Care Routine
Now that you know all the incredible benefits of Vitamin C for your winter skin care routine, it’s time to start using it. Here are a few tips to make the most of this powerhouse ingredient:
Serums are Key
Vitamin C serums are lightweight, fast-absorbing, and provide a concentrated dose of the vitamin directly to your skin. Apply a few drops after cleansing and before moisturizing. The Natrium Vitamin C Complex Serum is recommended by Sydney Givens, PA-C on Ep. 48 of the Ultraviolet Tide podcast.
Look for Stable Formulations
Vitamin C is sensitive to light and air, so opt for serums or creams with stabilized Vitamin C or derivatives like ascorbic acid, tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, or sodium ascorbyl phosphate.
Pair with Sunscreen
Vitamin C pairs beautifully with broad-spectrum SPF and actually boosts its sun protective effect and guards against skin aging and damage. Our favorite MDSolarSciences Daily Perfecting Moisturizer is formulated with skin-changing antioxidants like Vitamin C, grape, rosemary, and green tea extract to help fight free radicals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Vitamin C increase sun sensitivity?
No, Vitamin C does not increase sun sensitivity. Actually, quite the contrary. According to Kim Chang, a medical aesthetician at Baylor College of Medicine, “Studies have shown that using sunscreen with Vitamin C protects the skin from further photo damage caused by ultra-violet rays."
What does Vitamin C do for your skin?
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps brighten skin, reduce dark spots, and promote even skin tone. It also supports collagen production, which can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Additionally, Vitamin C offers protection from environmental damage caused by free radicals and UV rays.
Achieve Glowing Skin This Winter
Winter may bring about colder, drier air, but it also offers the perfect opportunity to rejuvenate and care for your skin. Vitamin C is an essential ingredient for combating winter skin woes, offering benefits from brightening and anti-aging to protection against environmental damage.
Why You Still Need Sun Protection in the Winter — Tips from a Dermatologist