How and When to Use Vitamin C: Anti-Aging, Sun Protection, and Skincare Benefits

Why is vitamin C an antioxidant?

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant. It helps fight free radicals that attack our DNA and cells, a phenomenon commonly known as oxidative stress.

Is vitamin C an anti-aging agent?

Vitamin C levels in our skin decrease over time. It is therefore important to increase its external intake through diet, supplements or cosmetic treatments. As a brightener, vitamin C is a great ally in anti-aging. In addition to its antioxidant protection, it helps slow the effects of aging by reducing wrinkles and fine lines, while reducing and preventing the appearance of hyperpigmentation. It also stimulates collagen production for firmness and elasticity.

Should we apply vitamin C in the morning? Is it photosensitizing?

Contrary to popular belief, vitamin C is not photosensitizing and can be applied every morning. In fact, topical vitamin C has been shown to act as a second line of defense against harmful UV rays. In fact, when used under a sunscreen, vitamin C optimizes the protection provided by the SPF.

Can we apply vitamin C in the evening after using retinol? After using bakuchiol?

During the summer, it is recommended to increase the application of vitamin C on the skin to increase its protection against aggressors, especially the sun's rays, and to obtain a brighter complexion. Therefore, we recommend using vitamin C both in the morning and in the evening.

If you are using retinol in the evening, it is not advisable to apply your vitamin C serum at the same time, as these two ingredients can be aggressive to the skin when used together.

Alternatively, you can use a plant-based retinol called bakuchiol. The advantage of bakuchiol is that it does not cause irritation, so it can be combined with vitamin C in your evening or even morning skin care routine.

What are Helwe products that contain vitamin C? How should they be incorporated into your summer skin care routine?

Sérum Radieux: This serum contains 10% L-Ascorbic Acid (the purest and most potent form of Vitamin C), Vitamin E and Ferulic Acid. It is stabilized with other antioxidants that optimize its shielding effect against free radicals, especially in summer, making it suitable even for sensitive skin. We recommend following it with Intense Hydration Serum, which is alcohol-free and contains aloe vera and carrot hydrosols to ensure no irritation.

Masque Radieux: This antioxidant-rich mask contains vitamin C, vitamin E and resveratrol. It helps prepare skin for sun exposure and provides a radiant glow.

Hyalo C Eye Serum: Enriched with Vitamin E, Vitamin C and Q10, this serum is formulated specifically for the delicate eye area.

Sérum Eclat: This serum contains 10% tetrahexyl ascorbate (a derivative of vitamin C), vitamin E and primarily jojoba oil. It penetrates skin 10 times more effectively and, as an oil-based serum, is non-comedogenic and moisturizing.

To incorporate these products into your summer skincare routine, apply Radiant Serum or Radiance Serum morning and night after cleansing. Follow with Sérum Hydratation Intense as needed. The Radiant Mask can be used 1-2 times per week as a treatment. Hyalo C Eye Serum should be applied gently around the eyes. Remember to apply a broad spectrum sunscreen during the day for added protection from the sun's harmful rays.

Routine

Summer evening routine:

1. Step 1: Double cleansing
2. Step 2: AHA and BHA exfoliation, at least 3 to 4 times per week.
3. Step 3: Regenerate: Sérum Perfection (Bakuchiol).
4. Step 4: Moisturize and brighten, reduce hyperpigmentation: Serum Eclat (Vitamin C, E), brightening, moisturizing.

Summer Day Routine:

Use vitamin C in combination with other antioxidants.

1. Masque Radieux: Apply for a minimum of 15 minutes, 3 times a week. Remove with a makeup remover by massaging, then rinsing.
2. Sérum Radieux (ascorbic acid, vitamin C, vitamin E, ferulic acid).
3. Crème Jeunesse (Bakuchiol).
4. A few drops of Booster d'énergie (Pomegranate Extract, Carrots, Tomato Lycopene) for added antioxidant action.
5. SPF.

Alternative:

2. Sérum Eclat.
3. Sérum Perfection.
4. Crème Energie with a few drops of Booster.
5. SPF.

Pre-Beach Routine:

1. Sérum Eclat: This is a 10% liposoluble vitamin C serum with high penetration, making it a powerful antioxidant. It also helps counteract dehydration from seawater or chlorine.
2. Booster d'énergie: To enhance the antioxidant and hydrating effects.
3. Mineral SPF: Preferably (Helwe is currently manufacturing its mineral SPF).