Get that glow
Remember when we used to be into the matte look and would immediately blot any trace of shine? But times have changed and now we’ve got new skin goals. Enter the glass skin, a trend that started when Los Angeles-based makeup artist Ellie Choi posted selfies showcasing her unbelievably luminous and smooth skin. It’s so clear and even-toned that it looks almost translucent.
To say that beauty-loving gals are obsessing on how to achieve glass skin is an understatement. From illuminating powders to highlighters, makeup seems to be the express ticket to achieving that elusive poreless-like skin. But if you really want that “lit from within” look, you’ve got to work on your skincare. One specific ingredient that can help you get that glass skin is vitamin C. What are the benefits and how to properly use it? Let’s talk about that now.
It treats discoloration
Having that flawless, even-toned skin is essential if you want to sport glass skin. Instead of using heavy duty concealer, go for vitamin C serums instead. Powerful vitamin C derivatives are a godsend when it comes to fading dark spots. Since it’s an exfoliant, it aids the skin’s natural regeneration process and over time, lifts the old, discolored skin. At the same time, vitamin C can also hinder melanin production, meaning less discoloration with continued use.
It prevents signs of aging
We don’t really see it coming because it’s invisible to the naked eye but free radicals are very damaging to our skin’s health and contribute to early signs of visible aging. It can be found in UVA/UVB rays, cigarette smoke, pollution among other things. To counter this we need to load up on antioxidants and the good news is that vitamin C is one of the most potent ones, making it a good preventative product to avoid premature aging.
L-ascorbic is your best bet
Vitamin C comes in many forms but your best bets are products that use L-ascorbic. It has the most research so you can be sure that it’s stable and safe even for those with sensitive skin. It’s not easy to find well-formulated vitamin C serums, so it’s best to get yours from reputable skincare brands. Usually, those that combine vitamin C with other ingredients like vitamin E, ferulic acid or Hyaluronic acid that can enhance its potency and absorption are good picks.
What to watch out for
When shopping for vitamin C serums, you have to take note of the packaging. It has to be completely opaque and airtight, the less exposure to sunlight and air, the better. Otherwise, it can easily become discolored and lose its potency.
Besides the storage, you also need to watch out for products in your current skincare routine that can cancel the effect of vitamin C or worse irritate your skin. Some of the ingredients that you should never use with vitamin C are retinol, niacinamide, AHA/BHA, benzoyl peroxide. Although there is a recent development that disputes the incompatibility of niacinamide and vitamin C, if you have sensitive skin you still shouldn’t risk it.
How to incorporate vitamin C into your skincare routine
In most cases, vitamin C can be used both during the daytime and nighttime. In the morning, apply the serum either as a spot treatment or all over your face after cleansing. Never forget to layer sun protection right after! Since vitamin C has photoprotective properties, it will give you that extra protection against premature aging due to UV rays. During your nighttime routine, vitamin C should be applied after cleansing and toning but before moisturizers for optimal absorption.