Why do Skin care brands like Vitamin C so much?

Have you ever heard of an XYZ skin product being displayed on our tv screens ending with “kyuki isme hai Vitamin C”? I’m sure you must have, at least once in your life. Have you ever given thought to why every skincare brand talking about Vitamin C is present in their products? If not, let's just have a look at it today.

But first, let's see what Vitamin C is.

Vitamin C is also known as Ascorbic acid. It is present in various foods naturally and is also sold as a supplement. There is enough scientific evidence suggesting it is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in keeping your skin healthy.

It also happens to be a powerful antioxidant that aids in averting damage to the cells caused by free radicals. Its anti-inflammatory properties help build the body's core defence system. 

Vitamin C is soluble in water and hence it does not get stored in the body. Unlike most other nutrients, Vitamin C cannot be produced by our bodies which means it has to be replenished from dietary sources. For instance; citrus fruits, amlas, cruciferous vegetables and so on. 

There are many benefits of vitamin C, for instance, strengthening our immune system and protecting the eyes. Now let us walk you through its benefits for the skin.

• Prevent wrinkles and fine lines:
  
  Vitamin C helps to prevent unwanted signs of wrinkles and fine lines by enhancing collagen production in your body. According to some studies, a higher intake of vitamin C is associated with good skin appearance and topical application of skin products containing vitamin C for 12 weeks has decreased the wrinkling of the skin and increased the production of collagen.
• Protects from sun exposure: 
  
  The topical application of vitamin C works as an antioxidant to protect your skin from UV rays. It also helps to reduce effects caused due to prolonged sun exposure such as skin tanning, rough skin, and redness of the skin.
• Lowers dark pigmentation:
  
  Dark pigmentation (darkening of the skin) also known as hyperpigmentation of the skin is caused due to increased production of melanin. Melanin is a pigment that gives colour to your skin. The topical application of vitamin C lowers these dark patches.
• Helps reduce inflammation:
  
  Vitamin C is a great anti-inflammatory as well as an antioxidant that helps reduce inflammation and its signs such as rash, redness, and irritation. Topical vitamin C application relieves the skin of acne, redness and psoriasis among other skin conditions.
• Improves skin elasticity:
  
  The topical application of vitamin C stimulates the production of collagen and elastin in your skin which helps the skin to become tight and firm.
• Aids wound healing:
  
  Vitamin C promotes collagen formation, which helps in wound healing. It works better when applied topically as compared to being ingested orally. A combination of vitamin C and vitamin E helps in healing the wound rapidly.

Vitamin C stimulates the production of collagen and elastin which improves the skin texture and makes it firm. Without a doubt, it helps in strengthening our immunity. This is done by reducing our oxidative stress and decreasing potential damage to tissues. Vitamin C is also known to lower the risk of cataracts. Whilst it also delays the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) due to its antioxidant properties.