Why the hype?
There has been countless products launches around topical Vitamin C products over the past few years, especially Vitamin C face serums, yet still current continued growth in interest for Vitamin C products, but are they really worth the hype?
Vitamin C is a known antioxidant which is proven to effectively stimulate collagen growth and cell renewal. Vit C serums are therefore designed to ultimately repair skin damage, whether from UV damage or aging effects, improve discolouration, lighten dark spots and also exfoliate the skin. Vit C formulas and serums are so popular due to its lightening and brightening effects. Users often claim to have immediate healthier skin, improved colouring and skin tone, along with brighter and clearer skin.
L-Ascorbic Acid vs. Vitamin C Derivatives
L-Ascorbic Acid (LAA) is essentially Vitamin C in its purest form, hence able to provide users most noticeable and immediate skin-rejuvenating effects. The ideal formula would be one with high concentration and low pH, however not only will this be highly unstable, it also easily irritates the skin of many, especially those with more sensitive skin. L-Ascorbic acid is a difficult ingredient to deal with when used in skin care products, finding the appropriate balance for effectiveness and stability, therefore in many cases Vitamin C derivatives are a better choice.
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (MAP) is a Vitamin C derivative, a more stable and non-irritating derivative of Vitamin C. MAP contains many of the same benefits as Vitamin C, especially in boosting collagen and suppressing melanin formation for skin brightening, and is found to be just as effective even in much lower concentrations. MAP is often a more suitable Vitamin C alternative for sensitive skin than Vit C formulas which have higher pH levels and can therefore have unwanted exfoliating effects due to acidity.
Mellow Naturals Vit C Serum
The Mellow Naturals Vit C Natural Glow Face Serum is a vitamin-rich 90%-natural face serum, an essential whitening formula for radiant and healthy skin. Our formula is mild, nonetheless rich in both Vitamin C and Vitamin C derivative, containing key ingredients of MAP, tangerine peel extract and jojoba oil. The formula therefore is highly stable and allows gradual but effective natural improvement of the skin, suitable for even the most sensitive skins.