In the quest for optimal skin health, understanding the role of essential nutrients is key. And when it comes to antioxidant protection, collagen production, healing and repair, one nutrient stands out: Vitamin C. This powerful antioxidant not only is an important protection against daily aggressors, it also plays a vital role in collagen synthesis, making it a potent ally for maintaining youthful, radiant skin. In this comprehensive article, we dive deep into the world of vitamin C, uncovering its benefits, sources and recommended use. 

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble essential nutrient that plays a vital role in our overall health and well-being. It is an essential vitamin, but our bodies cannot produce it on their own, so we must obtain it through our nutritional supplementation or application topically. For your skin alone, this powerful antioxidant is responsible for a wide range of functions such as promoting healthy skin and wound healing.

When it comes to incorporating vitamin C into your skincare routine, there are several different forms of the nutrient that you may encounter. Each type of vitamin C has its own unique properties and benefits, so it's important to understand the differences to ensure you're choosing the most effective option for your skin's needs.

This is one of the most common forms of vitamin C in skincare- pure, unadulterated form of the nutrient. L-ascorbic acid is highly potent and effective at penetrating the skin's surface to deliver its benefits. A downside for this is that products that contain L-ascorbic acid are more unstable and sensitive to factors like light, air, and pH, which can cause it to oxidize and lose its potency over time. The product's color may change over time or you may find that it is not as effective as when it is fresh or just opened.

To combat the instability of L-ascorbic Acid, newer and more innovative vitamin C derivatives are emerging in the skincare market, such as Ascorbyl Glucoside found in Saya Glow Serum, tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate and ethyl ascorbic acid. These derivatives are designed to be more stable and effective than traditional vitamin C, with the goal of delivering maximum benefits to the skin without the risk of oxidation. Ascorbyl Glucoside in particular, is also gentler making it a good option for those who have sensitive skin. .

Vitamin C can also be derived from a bioactive complex of fruits, These sources provide not just ascorbic acid, but a complex of other nutrients like bioflavonoids, antioxidants, and phytonutrients, which enhance the bioavailability and effectiveness of vitamin C. Saya Glow Serum combines a complex of 4 different Australian Native Botanicals to achieve a high potency of Vitamin C concentration in the product.

Here are some fruits that are commonly part of bioactive complexes for vitamin C:

Kakadu Plum 

• Known to have the highest recorded natural concentration of vitamin C in the world with more than 100 times than that of an orange
• Contains antioxidants like ellagic acid and gallic acid, supporting skin brightness and defense.

Baobab Fruit 

• Rich in vitamin C as well as other nutrients like calcium and magnesium.
• Its antioxidants help to improve skin hydration and elasticity.

Citrus Fruits (e.g., oranges, lemons, grapefruits, limes)

• Provide natural ascorbic acid along with bioflavonoids like hesperidin, rutin, and quercetin.
• Bioflavonoids enhance absorption and have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The benefit of Vitamin C from a fruit complex is that it offers enhanced skin benefits by working in synergy with other benefits. Such complexes are often preferred in skincare formulations due to their potency and natural composition.

Vitamin C is a true powerhouse when it comes to supporting skin health and addressing a wide range of skin concerns. From fighting the signs of aging to improving skin texture and tone, this essential nutrient is a must-have in any comprehensive skincare routine.

A quick rundown on the benefits of Vitamin C

• Combat the effects of oxidative stress & environmental damage
• Helps with the production of collagen
• A key component in skin barrier to maintain skin's moisture levels
• Reduce inflammation
• Address uneven skintone, spots & discoloration

In conclusion, vitamin C is a truly remarkable nutrient that plays a vital role in maintaining overall health and supporting the skin's natural functions. It is a powerful antioxidant, to protect the skin from the damaging effects of free radicals, reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots. It is also crucial for the production of collagen, which provides structure, elasticity, and firmness to the skin.

Beyond its anti-aging benefits, vitamin C also supports the skin's barrier function, helping to maintain hydration and protect against environmental stressors. It can also be effective in addressing a variety of other skin concerns, such as hyperpigmentation, acne, and uneven skin tone. 

Since our bodies are not able to produce vitamin C, it is important to supplement it- one way is to use it topically.

There are many different forms of Vitamin C that can be incorporated into your skincare routine- from L-ascorbic acid to the more stable and long-lasting derivatives, these options are available to suit different skin types and preferences. By understanding the various forms of vitamin C and their unique properties, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect fit for your skincare regimen.