Vitamin C Benefits for the Skin

The skin is not just a vital system of the body. Though the skin protects the body from harm and invading germs, people associate the skin with beauty and youth. The vitamin C benefits for the skin improve both the appearance and function of the skin. People can get the vitamin C benefits for the skin by including natural sources of vitamin C in their diets, taking vitamin C supplements, and using skincare products with vitamin C.

Collagen is a protein that is responsible for the firmness and strength of the skin. Vitamin C is essential for the body to produce collagen. Without vitamin C, the resulting lack of collagen can increase the effects of aging on the skin such as thinning of the skin, fine lines, and wrinkles.

Several anti-wrinkle creams contain this vitamin as an active ingredient to promote younger looking skin. Other vitamin C benefits for skin that make the skin look younger include its use to lighten hyper-pigmentation or age spots and improve the effectiveness of cosmetic procedures like microdermabrasion and chemical peels.

Microdermabrasion is the exfoliation of the top layer of skin with the use of a mechanical device with a mildly abrasive surface. Some facial scrub products contain abrasives and vitamin C. The vitamin C is used in conjunction with microdermabrasion procedures and facial products due to its ability to improve the skin's elasticity and protective qualities.

In addition to keeping the skin looking young, vitamin C protects the skin cells from the negative effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. This essential vitamin not only protects the skin from the sun's harmful rays, but it can reduce the visible signs of sun damage. For this reason, some sunscreens contain vitamin C.

Vitamin C may improve the skin's ability to ward off germs and other micro-organisms. The vitamin helps promote healthy skin that works as a barrier to block bacteria and viruses from entering the body. A lack of vitamin C can lead to cracked, dry skin which compromises the skin barrier and allows germs enter the body.

The skin can become inflamed for several reasons. Inflamed skin is red and may feel warm to the touch. Two of the most common reasons for inflammation is damage to the skin and coming in contact with an allergen or irritant. Vitamin C can reduce inflammation.

A variety of supplements and natural skin care products contain vitamin C. Facial cleansing polish, moisturizing creams, cleansers, and refreshing facial spritz may contain vitamin C for its ability to improve skin health and protect skin from damage.

Vitamin C benefits for the skin enhance the way the skin looks and how well it protects the body. Natural facial products that contain vitamin C may help guard against wrinkles and other effects of aging on the skin. Including this vitamin in the diet can also encourage the production of collagen and other vitamin C benefits for the skin.