Q: Are there different types of vitamin C?

There are two main types of vitamin C found in skincare : L-ascorbic acid and THD ascorbate. These two varieties are also blended with other ingredients to make them more stable, resulting in derivatives like ascorbyl palmitate.

Question 1

What is vitamin C?

Accepted Answer

It’s a potent antioxidant found naturally in foods like citrus fruits. Synthetic forms of vitamin C are commonly used in cleansers, serums, oils, creams, lotions, and more.

Question 2

What does vitamin C do for skin?

Accepted Answer

This brightening agent works to reduce the appearance of dark spots, gives skin a firmer look, and helps prevent premature aging. It also helps protect against free radicals (skin-damaging molecules created by pollution and more). See what vitamin C products you can add to your skincare routine!

Question 3

Are there different types of vitamin C?

Accepted Answer

There are two main types of vitamin C found in skincare: L-ascorbic acid and THD ascorbate. These two varieties are also blended with other ingredients to make them more stable, resulting in derivatives like ascorbyl palmitate.

Question 4

How do I use it?

Accepted Answer

Use vitamin C skincare products daily for best results, especially during the day since it helps protect skin from environmental stressors like sun and pollution. Check the packaging for specific instructions since these can vary from product to product.

Question 5

What can I pair it with?

Accepted Answer

Vitamin C can be used with most ingredients and products. In fact, it acts as an insurance policy for the rest of your skincare routine—by protecting your complexion against free radicals, it helps maintain the results your other products deliver.

Question 6

Anything I shouldn’t pair it with?

Accepted Answer

If you experience irritation, avoid using vitamin C on days you use potent active ingredients, like retinol and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs).