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Ingredients

Ingredient Spotlight: Vitamin C in Skincare

25 June 20267 min read

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is arguably the most researched topical antioxidant in dermatology. Its benefits span from neutralising free radicals and brightening uneven skin tone to stimulating collagen synthesis and protecting against UV-induced damage. Yet Vitamin C is also notoriously unstable and difficult to formulate effectively — which is why the quality and form of Vitamin C in a product matters enormously.

1The Many Forms of Vitamin C

Pure L-ascorbic acid is the most biologically active form of Vitamin C but is highly unstable — it oxidises rapidly when exposed to air, light and heat, turning orange or brown and losing its efficacy. Stabilised derivatives such as ascorbyl glucoside, sodium ascorbyl phosphate, ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate and 3-O-ethyl ascorbic acid offer greater stability while still delivering meaningful skin benefits. RégimA uses carefully selected, stabilised Vitamin C derivatives that maintain potency throughout the product's shelf life.

2Antioxidant Protection

Vitamin C is a potent free radical scavenger, neutralising the reactive oxygen species generated by UV exposure, pollution and metabolic processes before they can damage skin cells, proteins and DNA. It works synergistically with Vitamin E — each regenerating the other after neutralising a free radical — providing far greater antioxidant protection than either ingredient alone. This antioxidant network is a cornerstone of RégimA's anti-ageing approach.

3Collagen Synthesis

Vitamin C is an essential cofactor in the synthesis of collagen — the structural protein that gives skin its firmness and elasticity. Without adequate Vitamin C, the body cannot produce properly structured collagen. Topical Vitamin C stimulates fibroblasts to produce more collagen and also inhibits the enzymes that break it down, delivering a dual benefit for skin firmness and the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles.

4Brightening and Pigmentation

Vitamin C inhibits tyrosinase — the enzyme responsible for melanin production — reducing the formation of new pigmentation while gradually fading existing dark spots and uneven skin tone. Unlike some brightening ingredients that work through exfoliation, Vitamin C addresses pigmentation at the enzymatic level, making it suitable for use on sensitive skin and all skin tones. Regular use delivers a visible brightening and radiance-enhancing effect.

5Vitamin C and Sun Protection

While Vitamin C is not a sunscreen and cannot replace SPF, it provides meaningful additional photoprotection by neutralising the free radicals generated by UV exposure that SPF alone cannot address. Studies show that combining topical Vitamin C with SPF provides significantly greater protection against UV-induced damage than SPF alone. This is why RégimA recommends applying a Vitamin C serum before your SPF every morning.

6Getting the Most from Vitamin C

Apply Vitamin C serums in the morning, after cleansing and toning, before moisturiser and SPF. Store Vitamin C products away from direct sunlight and heat — a cool, dark drawer is ideal. Discard any product that has turned orange or brown, as oxidised Vitamin C is not only ineffective but may cause irritation. Pair with Vitamin E and ferulic acid for maximum antioxidant synergy — a combination well-represented in RégimA's formulations.

Stability Check

A Vitamin C serum should be pale yellow to clear. If it has turned orange or brown, it has oxidised and lost its efficacy. Store in a cool, dark place and use within three months of opening.

Brighten Your Skin with RégimA

Discover which RégimA Vitamin C formulation is right for your skin type and concerns.