Article Overview
- Among the many factors that determine the efficacy of a vitamin C serum, concentration plays an essential role in maximising its skin benefits. Formulas adhering to the Duke Antioxidant Patent, that recommends a vitamin C concentration between 10% and 20% are most effective in providing antioxidant protection and preventing photoageing. In this article, we’ll discuss the difference between these vitamin C concentrations so you can choose the right formula for you.
What is a vitamin C concentration?
The concentrations of vitamin C in a skincare product refers to the amount of pure vitamin C formulated into the product. A topical vitamin C antioxidant must be formulated properly to be effective on skin. In addition to the type of vitamin C used (ideally l-ascorbic acid), and the pH of the solution, concentration is one of the most important factors in determining the stability and efficacy of a vitamin C product. The most effective concentration of pure vitamin C is between 10-20%, with concentrations under 10% being less effective and concentrations higher than 20% having an increased risk of adverse reactions.
What are the differences between vitamin C concentrations?
< 10% Vitamin C Concentration
A vitamin C with less 10% may provide some antioxidant protection, but it’s below the required concentration determined by the Duke Antioxidant Patent, meaning it won’t be as efficacious as more concentrated formulas. It may be a good introductory concentration or may be used in conjunction with other ingredients, like ferulic acid, but a stable, more effective vitamin C product should have a higher concentration.
10% Vitamin C Concentration
10% concentration is on the lower end of the Duke Antioxidant Patent, meaning that with the right form and the right pH level, it provides an ideal amount of pure vitamin C for absorption into the skin. 10% vitamin C offers antioxidant protection, helps brighten skin and improve uneven skin tone. 10% concentrations will be a more gentle former, making it good for sensitive or dry skin or sensitised skin, or for those introducing vitamin C into your skincare routine.
Phloretin CF Vitamin C Serum
Vitamin C serum for discolouration
Phloretin CF Vitamin C Gel Serum
Phloretin CF is a lightweight vitamin C gel serum formulated with unique antioxidant technology for effective protection against environmental aggressors, whilst working to diminish skin discolouration and signs of ageing, for a smoother, more even complexion.
Serum 10 AOX Vitamin C Serum for Sensitive Skin
A daytime introductory antioxidant serum that offers environmental aggressor protection for all skin types, including sensitive skin, while improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
15% Vitamin C Concentration
15% is a highly potent option for those looking for enhanced skin benefits. It may be too strong for sensitive skin, and may cause irritation or redness if used improperly. It’s generally considered suitable for normal, combination and oily skin types. A 15% vitamin C serum provides stronger antioxidant protection, helps brighten skin and can visibly reduce fine lines and wrinkles. SkinCeuitcals CE Ferulic has 15% pure Vitamin C and is also suitable for dry skin types.
C E Ferulic Vitamin C Serum
A vitamin C serum for fine lines and wrinkles.
20% Vitamin C Concentration
20% is at the high end of the recommended concentration for vitamin C products, making it the most potent. It provides strong antioxidant protection, helps improve skin tone, uneven skin texture, as well as visibly improves fine lines and wrinkles. However, given it’s a much stronger option, it’s more likely to lead to irritation or redness, and is not recommended for sensitive skin.
Are there side effects to vitamin C products?
Too-high concentrations of pure vitamin C can cause irritation and redness, especially in sensitive skin. This is why it’s important to start slowly when adding to your routine, starting with a lower concentration, using 1-2 times a week, and gradually increasing as the skin builds up tolerance. If you’re unsure about whether vitamin C is right for you, speak to a dermatologist or healthcare practitioner for tailored recommendations.
Incorporating vitamin C into your routine
The right concentration and the right type of vitamin C, or l-ascorbic acid, serum or gel provides an optimal concentration for improved absorption and can be applied up to twice daily, depending on your skin’s reaction.
To take advantage of its antioxidant properties, it’s best to use vitamin C serum in your morning routine, applying a serum onto the skin after cleansing and toning. Follow with any complementary serums (like hyaluronic acid), your preferred moisturiser, and finish with a high SPF-broad spectrum sunscreen.
Concentrated, stable vitamin C serums from SkinCeuticals
Choosing the right concentration vitamin C has a significant impact on your skin’s ability to absorb the product and reap the skin benefits of this ingredient. In adherence with our founder Dr Pinnell’s Duke Antoxidant Patent, each antioxidant that SkinCeuticals creates has been subjected to rigorous scientific studies, ensuring stable solutions of vitamin C for all skin types. Browse our range of vitamin C serums and gels online today.
