HOW TO USE VITAMIN C FOR ACNE-PRONE SKIN

Do you sometimes feel like your acne-prone skin or post-acne marks are holding you back from being your most radiant self? If so, vitamin C could be the skincare saviour you need to enhance your daily routine and help take back control of your skin. So, how does vitamin C help with acne? Read our comprehensive guide to find out how you can improve the appearance and texture of your acne-prone skin and reduce acne marks with this popular, multi-purpose ingredient..

How does vitamin C help acne-prone skin?

Acne is a very common skin condition, but it is possible to care for your complexion and manage its appearance with bespoke skincare tailored to your needs. Vitamin C is a water-soluble molecule prized in skincare for its anti-inflammatory properties that can target many of the physical characteristics of acne-prone skin. Vitamin C has been known to comfort sensitised skin and improve tone and texture. It can also work to protect your skin against stressors like UV rays and pollution. Let’s dive into the specifics of what vitamin C does for acne and how vitamin c can help with acne marks.

Reduces inflammation

Two of the most common features of acne-prone skin are discoloration and swelling. If you experience inflammatory acne (which is typically red in appearance), applying vitamin C topically on a consistent basis can help with some of the byproducts of acne like puffiness and redness. We know that this ingredient also works against free radicals, so adding vitamin C for acne-prone skin to your skincare ritual can help to protect against outside environmental stressors that may be contributing to your acne-prone skin.

Boosts collagen production

One of the key benefits of vitamin C for acne-prone skin is its ability to even texture and leave the skin feeling plump and hydrated. Vitamin C encourages the skin to synthesise new collagen; this restores elasticity and promotes skin cell turnover, all of which are helpful qualities for keeping skin looking youthful, glowing and radiant. While this extra boost of collagen is beneficial for ageing skin, it also helps to support damaged skin and encourage new, healthy skin.

Fades post-acne marks

Vitamin C serves another important purpose in minimising the appearance of post-acne marks. Increased pigmentation can be an unfortunate carryover from skin that has been damaged by acne and another hurdle between you and a luminous complexion. People often use vitamin C for acne marks because this antioxidant has been known to diminish discolouration and dark spots, and even prevent new marks from forming. For particularly troublesome acne marks, opt for the vitamin C-derived Clarifique Spot Eraser to visibly reduce the intensity of your discolouration.

Can vitamin C clog pores?

When applied correctly, vitamin C can work with your acne, not against it. If you’re still asking, ‘is vitamin C good for acne?’, you can rest assured, because non-comedogenic vitamin C serums do not contain pore-clogging ingredients. In fact, due to its brightening and plumping qualities, vitamin C works to tighten and minimise enlarged pores. Combined with its protection against daily pollutants that are harmful to your skin, vitamin C can support your acne-prone skin through encounters with potential triggers.

Using vitamin C for post-acne marks vs active breakouts

It’s important to remember that vitamin C is a potent ingredient, so it’s better to use vitamin C for acne sparingly amid an active breakout. Opt for a vitamin C-enriched cream like the Clarifique Milky Day Cream instead. This product is formulated with French beech bud extract which is renowned for its regenerative properties and ability to support healthy skin.

The use of vitamin C for acne marks is becoming increasingly popular thanks to its skin-smoothing and collagen-boosting components. Once your skin is post-inflammation, considering introducing a more potent concentration of vitamin C like the Clarifique Dual Essence. This can be applied morning and night after cleansing for visibly brighter and more refined skin.

How to add vitamin C to your acne-prone skincare routine

Since vitamin C is not produced in the body, it needs to be applied to the skin topically in the form of vitamin C skincare. The benefits of vitamin C for acne are most noticeable after extended use, and it is best applied in the morning since it’s designed to combat free radicals that your skin is exposed to throughout the day.

If you are using both vitamin C and hyaluronic acid, these products can be layered together, with moisturiser being the final step for enhanced hydration.

For a lower concentration of vitamin C, consider a product with multiple potent ingredients like the Rénergie H.C.F Triple Serum or a combined hyaluronic and vitamin C serum such as the Advanced Génifique Serum.

If your acne-prone skin is on the sensitive side, explore our in-depth guide to choosing skincare for sensitive skin.