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Is Topical Vitamin C Really That Necessary? We Ask The Expert

Is Topical Vitamin C Really That Necessary? We Ask The Expert

Zahabiya Ali

If you were to ferret around a dermat’s recco list for skin health, Vitamin C would only be second to the sunscreen. That is precisely why all the beauty gurus, CEO’s and Tiktok girlies press on the juicy glowy serums. When I entered the skincare chat as an amateur, the first thing I looked for was an editorial article flashing top Vitamin C serums in lists of fives, sevens and tens with bright and fresh orange shots. The benefits of this fruity recipe are well known and well loved, but how has this ingredient not transitioned into a passe like its seasonal counterparts? Is it really an essential must-have? Does it work for everyone? We found out all the answers from Dr. Soma Sarkar, Consulting Dermatologist, Bioderma. Ahead, read on to know whether the Vitamin C stays on your self-care shelf or is it time to move on:

Source: Instagram @shanayakapoor02

Vitamin C can be suitable for all skin types from dry and oily to sensitive skin. It is a potent antioxidant that helps to protect the skin against damage caused by free radicals. Vitamin C also helps in brightening the skin and reducing hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and wrinkles. If you have sensitive skin, it is best to start with a lower concentration of vitamin C and gradually increase the dosage over time.

Vitamin C is touted as the must have in your AM skincare routine. Is it really that necessary?
“Being high in antioxidants it’s important to incorporate Vitamin C in morning skin care. It
helps the skin to fight against free radicals and maintain good skin health. Apart from this, it also helps to lighten the pigment, helps in skin brightening while making the skin toned. However there is a catch, anyone suffering from a lot of acne eruption should avoid using Vitamin C. Once these acne eruptions have subsided, Vitamin. C can be used. It can be also avoided by those who have extremely oily skin, since the potent recipe has an oily feel to it, even though it’s not exactly greasy”, tells Sarkar.

What kind of factors should be considered before going for Vitamin C?
“Vitamin C is available in two forms, topical application and oral application. Topical application through serums and moisturisers can be started at a very young age even by a teenager, it is great when coupled with sunscreen.
Talking on oral consumption, it can be incorporated into the diet via food rich in vitamin C, chewable tablets, gummies or supplements and drinks including juices. It works efficiently for skin care and helps strengthening the immune system too”, shares Sarkar.


Vitamin C product that you love.
“My top choice is the Pigmentbio Vitamin C concentrate by Bioderma, which is the combination with AHA and BHA. It helps in brightening the skin and correcting the dark spots. It can be used for sensitive skin as well because Vitamin C has slightly acidic pH, it can sometimes give tingling effect. But this issue is very well taken care by Pigmentbio Vit. C concentrate of Bioderma”, tells Sarkar.