Vitamin C is a great skin care ingredient, but also very misunderstood! Many products have it on the ingredient list, but there are a few things to keep in mind before jumping on the Vitamin C bandwagon.

Benefits of Vitamin C

  • Stimulates natural collagen production
  • Fills in fine lines
  • Antioxidant properties (neutralizes damaged skin cells)
  • Brightens sun spots

Forms of Vitamin C

  • Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate
    Currently known as the most stable form available. Provides collagen-boosting effectives, and gentler on skin.
  • Ascorbyl Palmitate
    While more stable than L-Ascorbic Acid, it is not believed to be very effective.
  • L-Ascorbic Acid
    'Natural' Vitamin C. It is the least stable and can irritate the skin.

Derivatives tend to be more effective than pure Vitamin C.

Not all Vitman C is created equal

Vitamin C is unstable. This means it can lose effectiveness when it oxidizes (comes in contact with air). Other factors that effect Vitamin C's effectiviness are :

  • Product packaging
    It is ideal to have a container with a small opening...larger opening allow more air in, which oxidizes the product.
  • The form chosen
    Cheaper products will have a less stable form of Vitamin C. Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate is known to be very effective.
  • Delivery system
    You can find Vitamin C in creams, liquids, serums and powders. Powder is believed to be most effective.
  • Percentage used
    Products in grocery stores will most likely have a much smaller % of Vitamin C than professional brands. Companies are not required to disclose ingredient %, but high-potency Vitamin C will cost more.

Dermalogica's Vitamin C solution

MAP-15 Regenerator is a very stable form of Magnesium Ascorby Phosphate. It is a powder that liquifies to the skin. The packaging was designed to keep it effective. Aside from Vitamin C, it contains anti-aging ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid, Glucosamine, White Tea and more!

You can tap the powder onto your finger and apply directly to problem areas, or add a pea-sized amount to your favorite moisturizer for an all-over boost.