Vitamin Who? Vitamin C - Breaking Down the Glow Vitamin

How to Get the Most from Your Vitamin C

• Store in a cool, dark place (air-tight and away from light)
• Use in the morning under SPF for extra UV protection
• Start with gentle forms if you’re new or sensitive
• Pair with Vitamin E and Ferulic Acid for boosted results
• Be consistent, results improve with time!

Where Does Vitamin C Fit in My Routine and Is It a Necessary Step?

Yes, Vitamin C can be a powerful (and often necessary) step - especially if you’re targeting dullness, hyperpigmentation, or signs of aging. It’s not a “must” for everyone, but for most skin types, it’s a game-changer.

When to Use Vitamin C?

Use it in the morning, after cleansing and before moisturizing and SPF.

Apply on clean, dry skin, followed by your favourite hydrating serum or moisturizer.

Layer it correctly!

Cleanser → Toner (optional) → Vitamin C Serum → Moisturizer → SPF

Why in the morning?

Vitamin C boosts your SPF by protecting against free radicals like UV rays and pollution. Think of it as antioxidant armour for your skin throughout the day.

Do you need Vitamin C?

If you're

• Struggling with acne scarring
• Battling pigmentation
• Looking for more glow
• Interested in preventative anti-aging
• …then yes, Vitamin C is a highly recommended step. But if your skin is extremely reactive or you're just starting out, gentler forms like MAP or SAP are a great introduction. 

What Is Dalton Weight and Why Does It Matter in Skincare? Daltons are a unit of measurement used to describe the molecular weight of an ingredient. In skincare, the Dalton size helps determine how well an ingredient can penetrate the skin barrier.

Quick Facts

The stratum corneum (outermost layer of skin) acts like a gatekeeper (not a sponge)

For an ingredient to penetrate effectively, its molecular weight typically needs to be under 500 Daltons (a rule called the 500 Dalton Rule).

Smaller molecules = deeper penetration.

So, when it comes to Vitamin C...

• L-Ascorbic Acid (~176 Daltons) penetrates easily but can be irritating.
• Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (~872 Daltons) is larger but still effective due to its lipid-soluble nature, allowing it to pass through the skin’s oil-loving layers.

In short: Dalton weight affects how deeply an ingredient can work, how fast it works, and how likely it is to irritate the skin. That’s why choosing the right form of Vitamin C matters!

Why Is Vitamin C a Powerhouse and Can We Get It from Food or Supplements?

Vitamin C is considered a skincare powerhouse because it does so much: it brightens dull skin, boosts collagen production, fades hyperpigmentation, and protects against environmental damage like UV rays and pollution. As an antioxidant, it neutralizes free radicals unstable molecules that accelerate skin aging and inflammation.

But here’s what makes it even more valuable: our bodies can’t produce Vitamin C on their own. That’s why getting it through skincare, diet, or supplements is essential.

Can We Get Vitamin C from Food or Supplements? Yes we should.

Vitamin C-rich foods like oranges, kiwis, strawberries, bell peppers, and leafy greens support overall skin and immune health from the inside out. Supplements can all help, especially for those who have deficiencies or higher needs due to stress, illness, or poor diet.

However, topical Vitamin C is still important because it delivers the ingredient directly to the skin, where it’s needed most. Only a small percentage of dietary Vitamin C reaches the skin, so combining internal and external sources is the best way to maximize benefits.

In short: Yes, you can get Vitamin C through food and supplements - but for visible skin results, a good topical product seals the deal.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re fighting dullness, acne scars, or early aging, Vitamin C is your glow-getting ally. The trick is picking the right type for your skin.

So… Vitamin who?

Now you know - it’s Vitamin C, and it’s your new favourite skincare step.

If you want to know which Vitamin C serum is right for you.

Book a skin consultation via the link below, or DM me on Instagram @theskincellclinic for personalised recommendations!