Your Skin Superhero!
Vitamin C - Why you need it & our TOP 5 Clean Serums
If there’s one skincare ingredient ANYONE can benefit from incorporating into their daily rituals, it’s the humble Vitamin C.
This do-it-all vitamin works over time in any skincare regime with its long list of skin enhancing credentials, from skin brightening and firming, antioxidant superpowers, and simultaneously repairing and protecting your skin against damage – this beauty does just about everything but pay the bills and cook your dinner 😉
So, if you're looking to up your skincare game and haven’t thought about introducing our dear friend Vitamin C yet, we're here to tell you why you absolutely should!
Why You Need It
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient, meaning the body can’t synthesise it on its own and therefore it must be consumed through our diet. Now, eating armfuls of oranges isn’t the secret to glowing, radiant skin, as only tiny amounts of orally consumed Vitamin C is directed to work its magic on our skin 😥. But don't worry! Applying a high-quality, topical Vitamin C is sure to transform your skin and have you ageing like a fine wine.
Why It’s So Great!
- Powerful Antioxidant
We've all heard of antioxidants and their role in antiaging, that’s because antioxidants are vital for combatting free radical damage, which is a key contributor to premature aging and dull skin
- Protects Against Environmental Aggressors
Due to its antioxidant superpowers, Vitamin C defends against sun damage, air pollution and stress, which over time really takes its toll on our skin
- Boosts Collagen Production
Vitamin C plays an important role in collagen synthesis, the main structural protein in our skin essential for keeping it firm and plump
- Reduces Pigmentation
Lightening the appearance of brown spots and pigmentation, Vitamin C reduces melanin production, and further prevents it from developing
Types of Vitamin C
Just as there are countless Vitamin C skincare products on the market, there are various forms of Vitamin C itself, each with their own benefits. These include traditional active Vitamin C forms, and naturally occurring, plant active sources.
Traditional Active Vitamin C and its derivatives
The most common and studied form of active Vitamin C is L-ascorbic Acid (you might have noticed this one on the back of your Vitamin C or multivitamin bottle), though it has been known to cause sensitivity depending on the formulation and concentration. There are also derivatives of L-Ascorbic Acid such as Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (MAP), Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate and Ascorbyl Palmitate.
Plant Active Vitamin C
Surviving the natural elements of the harsh Australian environment is no easy feat, so it shouldn't come as a surprise to learn that our very own backyard produces some of the most resilient and potent native plants, boasting superior antioxidant and therapeutic abilities.
Kakadu Plum
The queen herself of naturally derived Vitamin C - this small but mighty native fruit has been crowned the richest source of natural Vitamin C in the world!
Brimming with antioxidants and phytochemicals, Kakadu Plum is an effective and gentle way for those with sensitive skin to enjoy all the wonderful benefits of Vitamin C, and is frequently used in skincare for its powerhouse properties, as well as being used to amplify results of traditional Vitamin C's.
Also known to throw a punch for their Vitamin C and antioxidant content are fellow native Aussie plants, Davidson Plum and Quandong.
Davidson Plum
These beautifully pigmented, dark plums are highly sought after in skincare for their natural enzymatic properties, meaning it behaves like AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) on the skin, helping to gently exfoliate and cleanse pores.
Quandong
Also known as the ‘Desert Peach’, these brilliant red berries are yet another potent antioxidant. What makes them extra special are their skin hydrating abilities due to high concentrations of alpha-amino acids. Anti-inflammatory and full of essential fatty acids, Quandong is also wonderfully nourishing and reparative.
One Fine Secret’s Clean Vitamin C Serum Favourites!
Now you know all the facts, are you ready to ramp up your skincare routine?
Serums are the most concentrated active step in your skincare ritual, penetrating deep into the layers of your skin to achieve impactful results. So there’s no better step to focus your vitamin C efforts on.
Here are our natural beauty experts' top clean Vitamin C serums for every skin type.
Packed only with healthy ingredients, plus vegan and cruelty free too.
Brighter, plumper, even skin, here we come!
Josh Rosebrook C Bright Complex
The new kid on the block! Contains two clinically proven Vitamin C complexes featuring L-Ascorbic Acid and 3-O-Ethyl-L-Ascorbic Acid. Supported with Ferulic Acid, Vitamin E, Colloidal Gold and Glutathione, these cutting-edge complexes work in synergy to enhance results.
Who it's best for? Formulated to work its magic on all skin types including mildly sensitive, this lightweight, creamy serum is perfectly hydrating and applies like a dream!
Mukti Vitamin Booster Vital C Elixir
A synergistic blend of both Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (MAP), native certified organic Kakadu Plum, plus a medley of natural botanicals, this one is truly an antioxidant powerhouse!
Who it's best for? Our top pick for combination, normal and mature skin, this uplifting, citrus scented serum is lightweight, yet plump thanks to its certified organic aloe vera base.
Wildcrafted Organics Wild Plum Illuminating C Complex
A triple threat, this serum features Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (MAP), certified organic Kakadu Plum and moisture-boosting Hyaluronic Acid to leave skin extra plump and smooth!
Who it's best for? Our favourite for those with dry skin or wanting to boost hydration, thanks to the addition of Hyaluronic Acid, Seabuckthorn and Rosehip Oils. This jelly-like serum is super plump and smells just like Summer.
MV Skintherapy Native Power Serum
Starring not one, but three phytonutrient-rich Australian natives - Kakadu Plum, Quandong and Davidson Plum together with Hyaluronic Acid, forming the ultimate plant-powered Vitamin C serum.
Who it's best for? Loved by our sensitive skin sisters, or those after a gentle approach to Vitamin C, this weightless serum is also great for blemish prone skin due to its natural AHA qualities.
Biologi Bqk Radiance Face Serum
Meet the world’s first ever 100% plant phytonutrient-active, single ingredient pure plant serums! This Biologi serum duo of Kakadu Plum (morning) and Quandong (night) provide incredible skin reparative and protective abilities.
Who it's best for? Perfect for the skincare minimalist, the Biologi Bqk is ultra-hydrating and reparative for sensitive and dry skin types. Such amazing barrier protection that it’s designed to not need a moisturiser on top.
*Our OFS beauty experts always recommend patch testing new skincare if sensitive or reactive.
Looking to boost your hydration further with a vitamin C face oil?
For extra thirsty skin, we love these rejuvenating and hydrating face oils which can be layered on top of any of the above water/aloe vera-based serums to boost your skin’s essential fatty acid-based hydration.
Our top tips for getting the most out of your Vitamin C
- Always store your Vitamin C serum in a cool, dark place to protect its active ingredients.
- For optimal results Vitamin C can be used morning and night, though if you only have room to use it once a day, morning application is a must as it's so valuable for protecting against environmental stressors when you’re out and about.
- Don’t forget to use a natural sunscreen to help boost results and antioxidant effects of your Vitamin C.
So, you’re basically an expert on Vitamin C now!
But if you have any questions or would like personalised recommendations for your unique skin, our One Fine Secret natural beauty advisors are always here to help! Stay glowing, beauties!
Say hello! hello@onefines.com or (03) 9602 5666.
Visit our flagship Melbourne clean beauty store.
How’s your experience been with vitamin C in skincare? Let us know in the comments below!