No one can deny that a radiant face enchants everyone, and we all dream of achieving that one way or another. But it’s not that easy. As you know, Vitamin C serums promise glowing and natural skin while reducing dark circles and protecting against pollution or environmental stress. 

Hearing that, anyone might rush to their favourite store to buy a vitamin C serum. But choosing the wrong formulation, or using one that irritates your skin, can cause problems rather than deliver the expected benefits. So, how can a vitamin C serum cause problems, and how can you avoid choosing the wrong one? This StyleSpeak article explains how to use the serum and what to consider when selecting a product.

Step-by-step Guide on Using Your Vitamin C Serum

Many vitamin C serums use L-ascorbic acid as their active ingredient, although formulations may also contain vitamin C derivatives. Application is straightforward, but make sure you prepare your face first, starting with:

Step 1: Wash Your Face

Cleanse your face with lukewarm water and use a face wash to remove any dirt or oil from your face. 

Step 2: Wipe your Face

Gently pat your face dry with a clean towel. Applying vitamin C to damp skin may increase irritation for some people, depending on the formulation, so follow the product instructions and adjust based on your skin’s tolerance.

Step 3: Apply the Serum

Apply the amount recommended on the product label, using clean fingertips to spread it gently across your face. If the product is suitable for the neck, apply it there as directed. Avoid harsh rubbing.

Step 4: Wait for 2 minutes

Allow the serum to settle before applying the next product, following the label instructions. The time needed can vary by formulation and by the products layered over it.

Step 5: Apply a Moisturizer

Apply a moisturiser suited to your skin type to help maintain hydration.

Step 6: Add Sunscreen (during the day)

Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen during the day, following its label instructions. Vitamin C may provide antioxidant support against some effects of UV exposure, but it does not replace sunscreen.

Storage also matters. Some vitamin C formulations, particularly those containing L-ascorbic acid, can degrade when exposed to air, light or heat.

How to Protect Your Vitamin C Serum?

One factor to consider is oxidation. In simple terms, oxidation involves a substance losing electrons during a chemical reaction. Some vitamin C serums may change colour as they oxidise, shifting towards yellow, orange or brown, but colour changes and their significance depend on the formulation. 

There are a few ways to slow down this process so the serum can be used longer, or at least until most of its contents are used up. Starting with,

Store in a Cool, Dark Place

A cool, dark place may help protect some vitamin C formulations from heat and light. A dedicated skincare fridge is not essential; follow the manufacturer’s storage instructions and keep the product away from direct sunlight and heat.

Buy a Fresh Batch

Check the manufacturing date and expiry date before buying a serum. Storage conditions and packaging also affect stability. Follow the product’s shelf-life and after-opening guidance.

Seal it Air-tight

Make sure the container is properly closed after each use. Poor sealing can increase exposure to air and may accelerate degradation in some formulations. Refrigeration cannot compensate for improper storage or a damaged container.

A Dark Storage

You won’t have a fridge with you all the time. In that case, you should at least make sure that the serum is inside a sealed package and in your purse or a dark box all the time. You can even carry the original package since they are already made to protect the serum from some exposure. We’ll recommend taking it one step further and getting a dedicated bag just for your beauty product. That way you won’t accidentally expose the serum while reaching for your smartphone, cash, or something else.

Buy from a Trusted Brand

Choose products from reputable brands that clearly list their ingredients, provide appropriate packaging and give clear storage and expiry guidance. Clarins, Minimalist, The Derma Co. and Deconstruct offer vitamin C products, but product quality and suitability should be assessed individually rather than assumed from brand name alone.

Conclusion

Vitamin C can help support a brighter-looking complexion and protect against some effects of oxidative stress, depending on the formulation. However, results and tolerance vary, and proper storage can help maintain product quality. StyleSpeak hopes this article helps you make an informed decision. Subscribe to our magazine for more insights into the salon, beauty and wellness industries.