Ingredients | 17 June, 2025

What does vitamin C do for your skin?

Vitamin C is one of the most widely used ingredients in skincare, but what exactly does it do for your skin? This powerful antioxidant offers everything from brightening effects to long-term anti-aging benefits.

What is vitamin C?

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is renowned for its ability to brighten + protect the skin. This potent antioxidant helps defend the skin from harmful free radicals—unstable molecules that damage skin cells and accelerate signs of aging.

It is also celebrated for promoting collagen production, which helps maintain the skin's firmness + elasticity. Whether used for tackling discoloration or providing daily protection against environmental stressors, vitamin C is a versatile skincare staple.

Is vitamin C good for your skin?

As an antioxidant, vitamin C helps fight off oxidative stress caused by free radicals, which can lead to premature aging signs and discoloration.
Collagen is a protein that keeps the skin firm + smooth. As we age, collagen production naturally declines, leading to sagging and fine lines, but vitamin C can help counteract this process.

It also has anti-inflammatory properties, making it a beneficial ingredient for sensitive skin. It helps calm irritation and reduce redness, which is especially helpful for people dealing with rosacea.

What are the benefits of vitamin C for skin?

• Brightens skin tone: Vitamin C inhibits the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for dark spots and uneven skin tone. Regular use can lead to a brighter, more even complexion.
• Boosts collagen production: Collagen is essential for skin structure. Vitamin C plays a key role in the synthesis of collagen, helping to maintain firm + plump skin.
• Fights sun damage: Although vitamin C cannot replace sunscreen, it can act as a secondary shield against UV rays.
• Reduces redness: Its anti-inflammatory effects help to calm + soothe the skin, making it ideal for those dealing with irritation from skin conditions.
• Improves skin texture: With consistent use, vitamin C can improve skin texture by promoting the turnover of skin cells. It works to remove dead skin cells on the surface and encourages the growth of new, healthy skin.

Does vitamin C help blemishes?

Although vitamin C isn't a direct treatment for blemish-prone skin, its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can assist in reducing inflammation associated with breakouts. By soothing irritation, it may help calm angry, red pimples and reduce swelling.

After a breakout, scars or marks may remain long after the pimple itself has disappeared. Vitamin C can fade these spots over time to promote a more even skin tone.

If you have active blemishes, you should still be careful with how you incorporate the ingredient into your routine. Some people with more sensitive skin types may find that certain formulations can irritate blemish-prone skin.

We recommend testing new products on a small area first. Avoid using high concentrations if your skin is highly sensitive.

Does vitamin C help with dark spots?

Vitamin C is well-known for its ability to lighten dark spots and sun damage. These dark spots occur when there's an excess production of melanin, often triggered by sun exposure or hormonal changes.

If you're looking to fade dark spots, vitamin C is one of the most effective ingredients to include in your regimen. With regular use, it can significantly even out your skin tone and leave you with a brighter and more youthful appearance.

How to incorporate vitamin C into your skincare routine

To get the most out of this ingredient, it's important to use it correctly and consistently. Here are a few tips on how to introduce vitamin C into your daily routine:

• Choose an effective serum: Serums are typically more concentrated than creams or lotions, so they're perfect for delivering a higher dose directly to the skin. Apply a few drops of the ZO® 10% Vitamin C Self-Activating serum to clean, dry skin.
• Use in the morning: The ingredient is best used in the morning as it helps protect the skin from environmental damage throughout the day. Follow up with a broad-spectrum sunscreen for an added layer of protection against free radicals and UV rays.
• Consider a vitamin C-infused moisturizer: If you're sensitive to higher concentrations, you may want to use a vitamin C moisturizer instead. These are gentler on the skin while still providing the same brightening and protective benefits.
• Gradually introduce it into your routine: If you've never used vitamin C before, start by adding it gradually. Begin with every other day and then slowly increase usage. This will help minimize irritation, especially if you have sensitized skin.

Enjoy brighter, more radiant skin with ZO®

Vitamin C is an incredible ingredient that can provide a wide range of benefits for your skin. Whether you're targeting discoloration or general dullness, this ingredient is a must-have for a healthy, glowing complexion.

For specialist advice, locate your local ZO® Partner or get in touch with our knowledgeable team of experts.