Vitamin Therapy - Topical Vitamin C

Hi, y’all!  Well this is rolling right along now, with this second instalment, of my Vitamin Therapy process, following my previous Vitamin Therapy – Topical Vitamin A post.  Vitamin Therapy is the nickname I am using to portray this integral step, incorporated in my Serious Skin Care routine.  It involves integrating topical vitamins into my daily beauty ritual.  Not only are oral vitamins good for our inner health, when applied topically, they are fundamental in the care of our skin, keeping it in prime condition whist encouraging a more youthful appearance.  This dyad of conventional vitamins have evolved in recent times, into orthodox treatment methods, widely proclaimed as two of the most accomplished, scientifically proven antioxidant vitamins for reducing the negative effects of free radical damage to the skin, while being highly regarded as extremely influential factors of modern anti-ageing skin care.  Research has also claimed these antioxidants, when administered topically, can also yield significant protection for the skin and are capable of revoking the inevitable, somewhat sombre, circumstances surrounding the process of becoming older.  >:/ 

      

Vitamin Therapy Part 2 highlights my approach and understanding of topical Vitamin C, which perfectly compliments my Serious Skin Care regime and targets my own individual gremlins >:) (skin concerns, LOL :)) ).  I will run-through the Vitamin C skin care products that I have selected to flatter my straightforward anti-ageing routine and share my perceptions, based on my personal experience.

So, What is topical Vitamin C??

It is one of the best antioxidant vitamins, amidst considerable documented evidence supporting its effectiveness on the skin.  Up until 4 years ago, I knew absolutely nothing about Vitamin C whatsoever, :-/ (other than the memories of those yummy bright orange chewable tablets associated with my childhood, 8-> hehe ;)) ) until my beauty therapist boasted about how good it was.  She talked of its ability to boost collagen production, reverse the damage to skin cells and tissues, counteract premature signs of ageing, such as wrinkles, pigmentation and sagging caused by free radical assault.  She claimed it was one of her own secret anti-ageing weapons and one look at her gorgeous skin was enough to make me stand at attention, LOL. :))  Considering my skin, at the time, was evidently advertising numerous symptoms of premature ageing caused by sun damage thanks to my neglectful younger years. [-X  :">  Therefore, it was only fitting that I wanted to jump straight on the Vitamin C bandwagon myself. >:/ Three years on as I continue to watch my skin recover and emend before my very eyes, I can admit I have grown particularly attached to my Vitamin C skin care ‘sweetheart’ :x ;;)  Along with Topical Vitamin A, I plan to post a blog exploring topical Vitamin C, in depth as a skin care ingredient, further down the track.  However, this blog focuses on products rather than ingredients as such, so I will just include a snippet from the Beautypedia website, for a brief explanation in technical terms, FYI!

One of the most well-researched vitamins for skin, vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that has multiple benefits for those concerned with reducing (or forestalling) the signs of aging. It is available in many forms, with ascorbic acid being the most common (although it is the least stable, so packaging to ensure potency of such products is a major concern). Stabilized forms of vitamin C include magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, L-ascorbic acid, tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, ascorbyl palmitate, ascorbyl glucosamine, and ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate.

And, Why use it?

Efficacious amounts of topical vitamin C (typically 2–10%) have been shown to increase collagen production (including dermal collagen, which is significant for wrinkle reduction), reduce the appearance of skin discolorations, strengthen skin's barrier response, enhance skin's repair process, reduce inflammation, and help skin better withstand exposure to sunlight, whether protected by sunscreen or not.

Source: Anti-Aging Superstars: Ingredients with RealResults

What am I using?

ASAP Vitamin C Serum  

I have been using this particular serum for about 12 months now, after discovering it was an affordable alternative for the Alpha-H Vitamin C 20% Serum that I formerly used. $-) After a thorough comparison of the two products, I decided that the ASAP Vitamin C Serum was the more beneficial option for my skin.  While both products are of a serum formulation, the ASAP Vitamin C Serum was of a slightly higher strength, with a 23% concentration compared to the 20% of its predecessor.  Unfortunately, since I started writing this post, I have ascertained that it has been recently discontinued!  :-O  Despite its demise, it has paved way for the innovative ASAP Super C Serum, which superseded the original.  Hmm :-? another brand spanking, shiny new product to tempt me with. @-) haha :)) Oh well, I think I can see my wishlist growing LOL :)) Because this could possibly be an option when my existing one runs out. ;)  Even though I am uncertain what Vitamin C product I will engage in next, I was OK discerning that I won't be able repurchase this serum anymore.  Because honestly, while it DOES work, it really didn’t snag my ‘Holy Grail’ caliber ^:)^ and I will explain why, directly. 

Presented in a 30ml durable white glass bottle, featuring a hygienic dropper-style lid, to help the ingredients remain stable and prevent oxidisation.  Like many Vitamin C skin care products, this serum is tinted, which I find annoying! 8-| It’s impossible to tell if the Vitamin C becomes unstable when infused in a tinted formula, whereas with an untinted version, you could look for a change in the colour to tell if it has gone bad.  Anyway, I have not yet had much luck in finding too many serums that are not tinted, which is a shame, as the product would be deemed useless if it isn’t stable, sigh! :-< The cream and powder versions though, are often white in colour, if they are suited to your personal preference. *-:) The ASAP Vitamin C Serum is of an orange/brown colour, which smells slightly citrus-like, but it’s very subtle and doesn’t linger on the skin once it has been applied.

On the back on my hand ;)

After application on the back of my hand

I always fear that serums might be rich and greasy on my oily skin, :-S but thankfully, this one is ultra lightweight and absorbs well.  Initially, it does make my skin feel tacky to some extent, but once it dries, there is no evidence of any residue left on my skin at all.  I use it daily in my morning skin care ritual and it doesn’t interfere with my regular makeup application, which I just apply as normal after using the serum and a moisturiser.  I can also vouch that this serum DOES NOT stain the skin on my face. (Thank heavens, #:-S  LOL :)) ) Funnily enough, when I first started using it, I couldn’t help but notice the brown stain transferred on the palm of my hand, :-O LOL. :))  This stain didn’t wash off easily with water either, eek :-O so I began getting paranoid that if it was staining my hand so evidently, then what must it be doing to my face? double eek!!! :-O :-O I pictured myself resembling an ‘oompa loompa’ but luckily, after close and careful scrutiny in the mirror, I was finally convinced that my facial skin was, in reality NOT stained at all, phew  #:-S  After that encounter, I proceeded in dropping the serum onto the flipside of my hand, rather than its palm, and, remarkably, no sign of any staining there either, hooray =D>  Looks like this ASAP Vitamin C Serum only objected to submerging into the skin on my palm, rebelling in nature, forever stamping its mark in the form of that unsightly, stain.  Which I might add, doesn’t leave much to the imagination, bwahaha ROFL =)) but hey, as long as it stayed on my palm and didn’t obviously recur on my face; then I could live with that ;) 

On the palm of my hand :-O

On the palm using flash

All I ever need is just a tiny bit of serum per application, say 2- 3 drops, which is sufficient to then transfer onto my hand, (remember, not on the palm, LOL :)) ) before gently working into my skin.  I have never endured any stinging, burning or tingling sensation after using this serum, although I presume that may be because my skin was already quite resilient from various other Vitamin C products, I previously used.  Additionally, the ASAP Vitamin C Serum has never contributed to breakouts or irritation, so even though it is possibly the highest strength OTT (Over the counter) topical Vitamin C product available, it was perfectly kind to my sensitive skin. :)>-  On the contrary, based on my own experience, I find it is beneficial in helping clear those pesky, hormone induced pimples, whenever they arise.  Just a pin-size amount of serum, directly on the spot of a night, drastically reduces the severity of the pimple, come morning.  Therefore, this serum can readily pose as a substitute spot treatment, if need be. (*) 

It doesn't absorb well into the skin on my palm, which stains

Granted I have continually used topical Vitamin C skin care products for three years now, the visible improvement to the condition of my skin has become increasingly more apparent.  The ASAP Vitamin C Serum has persisted in playing a vital role to the general well-being of my skin and in support of its ongoing recovery.  Prompting a natural radiance and better clarity, that signifies a healthy, luminous-looking complexion.  My once uneven skin tone is now uniform in colour, with a notable reduction in blotchiness and facial redness.  The surface texture is much softer and smoother, while my skin feels plumper and firmer.  It has also helped to lessen the appearance of the fine lines that were starting to form and so far, it is working wonders in deterring the formation of future lines and wrinkles too. yay  \:D/  

Even after washing the stain remains on my palm :-O

Overall, I am grateful to be acquainted with the benefits of using topical Vitamin C and am satisfied that it is results-driven and decidedly lives up to its phenomenal claims. :-bd  The hard working ASAP Vitamin C Serum, repairs, prevents and protects against premature skin ageing.  While this particular serum isn’t quite my idea of perfect, it does what any good Vitamin C serum should, and that is to effectively promote the health of my skin.  It’s been a blessing in disguise, encouraging me to embrace the prospect of plausibly keeping my 37-year-old complexion looking younger for longer. (and longer and longer and longer, LOL :)) ) 

After washing stain using flash

Even though I will soon have to kiss the ASAP Vitamin C Serum goodbye, :-h  permanently, I will certainly move on to a different variant that will continue catering for my mature skins ongoing needs. After witnessing a complete turnaround of my complexion, I doubt I will ever part ways with topical Vitamin C, always including it in some form or other as an important step in my daily skin care regime.  It’s an absolute immortal, that totally rocks! \:D/

Other Vitamin C products I have used

Alpha-H Vitamin C 20 %Serum

Skinstitut Vitamin C 100%

Ultraceuticals Ultra C Sheer Facial Cream 20%

Ultraceuticals Ultra C Facial Cream 23%

Tip:

*-:) Ideally, any blend of Vitamin C skin care products should be utilised as a step in your AM beauty regime.  This is because Vitamin C has the ability to enhance the effect of your sun protection product, providing a greater line of defence.  I apply it straight after cleansing and toning, but PRIOR to any other products.  You can still layer it with other skin care or treatment products, but these should always come AFTER the serum, ensuring you allow a few minutes for it to dry.  It’s worth remembering this method, because if other products are applied first, it’s possible they could interfere with the penetration of the Vitamin C to your skin. :-S

Last words:

Investing in a topical Vitamin C product is crucial for anyone who is serious about developing an effective anti-aging regime. :-B  Once in play, you can expect to notice visible improvements to the condition of your skin, within just weeks, while over time you can look forward to achieving even greater results. The best way to optimise skin health and generate a skin-rejuvenating effect that promises to deliver firm, youthful skin, is by means of topical Vitamin C.  =D> Have you started using a Vitamin C product in your skin care regime yet?  If so, do you prefer a serum, cream or other formulation? Please share any of your favourites.  If not, you should seriously consider joining me on the bandwagon & embarking on the journey that is heading directly to the fountain of youth!  :D  <:-P 

All images in this blog are my own. (of such poor quality, oops #-o apologies to all, I need a new camera one day, hehe ;)) )

Information highlighted in yellow text was sourced from Beautypedia 

Vitamin Therapy - Topical Vitamin A

After wrapping up the products relating to my simple 3-step skin care routine, in previous posts, Cleansing, Toning and Moisturising, I am moving on to reveal ‘what’s doing’ in the next vital step of my daily Serious SkinCare routine, which I will label as 'Vitamin Therapy'.  Vitamin Therapy involves incorporating topical vitamin based treatments into my skin care regime.  That’s right, we all know that vitamins, taken orally, are crucial to our inner health, but did you know they also play an integral role in promoting a healthy, youthful-looking complexion?  I have selected two of the most effective, powerful, antioxidant vitamins, based on my individual skin concerns, to compliment my Serious Skin Care program.  

I only use each product once daily, which one would imagine, to be simple & straightforward!  Yeah, right!.....Wrong! :-/  When trying to explain these things in writing, it so happens to be far more complex, than I originally conceived, eek! :-O  With that said, I am going to partition this topic into two separate blogs, to avoid publishing something that resembles a mini novel, hehe! ;)) So first of all, I will divulge my perception of topical Vitamin A and any products I use!

So, What is topical Vitamin A??

It is a scientifically proven, extremely effective anti-ageing skin care ingredient that I have developed a huge 'crush' on, over the past few years. :x  Vitamin A actually deserves a blog in its own right, which I plan to deliver further down the track.  However, considering I am talking skin care products I use, rather than ingredients, I am just including a snippet from the Beautypedia website, to provide a technical explanation, FYI!

“Retinol is the term used for the entire vitamin A molecule. Applied to skin, retinol is a beneficial cell-communicating ingredient and an antioxidant. Simply put, it helps skin cells create better, healthier skin cells and increases the amount of skin-support substances. In skin-care products it is found in the form of retinol, retinyl palmitate, and retinylaldehyde. In prescription-only skin-care products, it is in the form of retinoic acid (also called tretinoin)."

And, Why use it?

"In addition to functioning as a cell-communicating ingredient and antioxidant, retinol has been shown to increase skin's collagen production and glycosaminoglycan content, resulting in firmer skin with an improved texture and enhanced barrier function. Although it is not the only ingredient to look for in an anti-aging product, it deserves strong consideration by anyone concerned with keeping their skin in top shape through the years. You may also want to consider one of the prescription retinoids, such as tretinoin (Renova), tazarotene (Tazorac), or adapalene (Differin); the latter two are highly recommended if you are dealing with wrinkles and breakouts. Those dealing with the triple threat of wrinkles, breakouts, and sun-induced skin discolorations should consider a prescription for Tri-Luma."

Source: Anti-Aging Superstars: Ingredients with RealResults

My ‘Holy Grail’

Retin-A 0.5% (Tretinoin)

After about 12 months of using various OTC (over the counter) retinol products of different concentrations, I decided it would save me lots of $$$ if I made the switch to prescription retinoids. =D>  I naturally had to consult with my GP first, but today, over 18 months, both my skin and wallet are truly thankful. <:-P  While there are heaps of horror stories surrounding retinoids, particularly the adverse side effects, I made certain that I educated myself well, before taking the leap.  Considering I was already familiar with using other Vitamin A derivatives and my skin had progressed through the OTC retinols and was able to tolerate the highest 1% strength with no qualms, it was only natural that I rise to the next level, leading me to Retin-A and a significant  improvement to my complexion.  :D

Retin-A comes in a small, 20gm tube that lasts for months; granted I only need a tiny, pea-sized amount of product, per application, to adequately treat my whole face and neck, making it incredibly cost effective at just $29 from Priceline, compared to its less potent, OTC relatives, which average, roughly, around the $100 mark. :-O  It’s not advisable to ‘go to town’ slathering this stuff on, because it doesn’t create faster results, rather, you could suffer the consequences later, with angry, red skin that might start shedding like crazy, or worse still, cause chronic damage to your skin, deep-down beneath the top surface layers, in the dermal area.  :">  In cases of such extreme damage, which may not rear its head for a long time after, then in which case, takes lots of effort and dedication, for years in severe cases, to effectively undo that damage and encourage deep skin cell regeneration!  :-s  Therefore, in this case less is best!  ;)

Retin-A cream is thick and very white.

The thick, white cream absorbs quickly and fortunately doesn’t leave any greasy residue on my oily skin, phew. #:-S  I have sensitive skin, which becomes aggravated quite easily, yet because I weaned my skin from low strength retinol, working up through the concentrations, prior to introducing retinoids, my skin has never had so much as a hiccup. :>  I am living proof, that sensitive skin can in fact tolerate retinoids, it just requires a little diligence and lots of perseverance. :-SS  Regardless of your skin type, you need to ensure it remains sufficiently hydrated, because when using any topical Vitamin A, it can cause dryness or dehydration. Therefore, it must be teamed with a good moisturiser.  I prefer using my Medik8 Hydr8 B5 Serum, in conjunction with my Retin-A, because it’s so lightweight, yet any good nourishing moisturiser will be equally as effective.  It just comes down to what works best for your skin or your own personal preference.   B-)

When I entered my thirties, following years of neglect as a tween/teen, I began to notice my skin displaying evidence of sun damage and signs of premature ageing.  When my therapist introduced me to the magic of Vitamin A, I saw my skin transform, before my very eyes; it really is nothing short of an anti-ageing miracle. (*)  I wouldn’t have ever guessed it was possible to reverse such apparent skin damage, or reduce fine lines and wrinkles and slow down the ageing process.  But, mark my word, it absolutely works! ;;) 

Just a pea-size amount is all I need.

Previously, the texture of my skin, which has always been on the rough side, was starting to look dull, tired and crepey in appearance. :(  After using this cream religiously for 18 months, it is now smoother, softer and much firmer.  My enlarged pores are less obvious and they rarely clog up with gunk; so, in turn, no blackheads.  The fine lines around my eyes have back-pedalled and softened dramatically, to the point where they are only just noticeable, right up close in a magnifying mirror.  The deeper frown lines on my forehead also did a u-turn and were given their marching orders and sent packing, ROFL. =))  My skin tone is more uniform and I have finally kissed the facial redness, blotchiness and discolouration, goodbye, adios amigos!  :-h   

These days, my skin is looking, clearer & brighter with a healthy, radiant, more youthful glow. I have run into people I have not seen in years, and they are amazed at the positive difference in my appearance.  I even receive compliments about how nice my skin is looking, and I have never had anyone say anything good about my skin before, ever, LOL. :D  Retin-A is the most important and paramount anti-ageing beauty treatment for my regime and I vow to remain faithful to it for the rest of my life.  I need to keep using it permanently, forever, because my skin will only revert to its old ways if I cease using it :-S (and I am not about to let that happen, no, no, no, LOL).  I keep my skin care simple when using this cream as I don't like to layer anything with it other than moisturiser, as I don't want to risk interfering with the magic it performs.  After 18 months of daily use, I am now in maintenance mode and use it every second night to continue reaping its benefits long term.  ;)

It absorbs instantly leaving no residue.

As long as I am fully armed and loaded with the super, dynamic Retin-A treatment, my unsurpassed weapon to fight the war against premature skin ageing, I am confident that I will successfully conquer the crusade and over time, I will indeed, come out the victor. :ar! Vitamin A has to be one of the best-kept secrets of the beauty world, but we need that to change, lets shout it out to the world! \:D/  It’s a highly effective, intensive anti-ageing treatment that has completely rejuvenated my skin and is helping me maintain youthful complexion!:D

Words of Wisdom

• Use with caution!
• Use sparingly, retinoids, in particular, are capable of burning skin if overused.
• You need to introduce it gradually to begin with, allowing skin to adjust accordingly.
• Knowing how to use the product properly from the get go, will minimise most, or even all, of the side effects that coincide with the onset of using this treatment.
• You may experience a burning/stinging sensation at first as well as facial redness.  If it becomes unbearable, stop treatment for a week then start again even more gradually. 
• It is perfectly normal for skin to shed/flake show signs of dryness, which usually starts after a few days.
• Obviously, if the side effects are severe, discontinue use immediately.  Some sensitive skin sufferers simply may not be able to withstand retinoids!
• During the first month, it's common to experience breakouts and skin can look worse before it looks better
• Do not apply retinoids in conjunction with other skin peeling products, such as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and benzoyl peroxide. Instead, alternate use on different nights.
• Vitamin A makes skin very susceptible to sun damage, always use sunscreen and cover up from the sun.
• Not to be used while pregnant or breastfeeding.
• It will take at least 3 months and up to 12 months before achieving noticeable results. You just need a bit of patience!  :-w

Other Vitamin A products I have used:

SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.5%

SkinCeuticals Retinol 1.0%

Ultraceuticals Ultra A Facial Cream

Ultraceuticals Ultra A Sheer Facial Cream

Final note:

Many people shy away from products containing Vitamin A or stop using them prematurely because of the irritation/side effects or skin purging that initially accompanies the treatment. :-S  All of these side effects though, are just a temporary drawback and if you can try to stick it out, in return the honour of healthy, flawless skin will be yours.  #:-S  Have any of you used a retinoids, retinol or a skin care product containing a Vitamin A derivative before?  If so, what are your thoughts?  If not, after having read my evaluation, would you consider giving it a try?  I have personally been undertaking ongoing, extensive research on this topic, during the past three years and have come to develop a 'love affair' with it, :x :x therefore, I am more than happy to share the love. :x  If you would like to shoot me through a question, maybe need some suggestions, or just want to 'ragger' on about it with me, please, by all means, go for it in the comments section.  ;)  

All images in this blog are my own.

Information highlighted in yellow text was sourced from Beautypedia   

 

Serious Skin Care

Anyone who knows me can confirm I have always been smitten with lotions and potions.  Growing up, in my circle of friends, I was renowned for my endless array of beauty products.  Nothing has changed; except I am a million times more obsessed these days (Is that even possible? LOL).  Although, I self-diagnosed my skins needs from the get go, a few years back, I sought professional advice, which proved to be an eye-opening experience for me. 

Having always claimed to have combination skin, I was dumbfounded when told straight that my skin is of the oily type, eek!  :-o  So, after two decades of purchasing products suitable for combination skin, I needed re-educating about my own skin type and admitted that I had indeed gotten it all wrong.  It’s no wonder products never satisfied and results never eventuated, I was fighting a losing battle, regardless of my dedication and commitment.  This skin analysis in conjunction with expert advise and guidance from my skin care therapist (Thanks Tembile, I owe you big time) helped me develop a serious, yet fundamental, anti-ageing skin care regime, targeting my skin concerns whilst maintaining my newly determined, ‘oily' skin. 

I love that my personalised skin care prescription is so versatile, allowing me to chop and change products or brands and giving me the option to introduce various targeted treatments as needed.  The straightforward routine is quick and easy to follow, catering perfectly to my busy lifestyle, without compromising on the efficacy or outcome.  I like including new treatments if required, however I know that using just the basics, adequately tackles all of my skin problems ensuring that I come up trumps to WIN the fight against premature skin ageing.

My basic skin care program:

AM

Simple 3-step skin care routine. (Cleanse, tone, moisturise)

+ Vitamin C therapy

+ Treatment products that tackle any of my other skin concerns (i.e. pigmentation etc) NB: This step is not essential!

+ SPF Protection (always the last step prior to any makeup)

 PM

Simple 3-step skin care routine (Cleanse, tone, moisturise)

+ Vitamin A therapy

+ Treatment products that compliment my routine (i.e. eye cream) NB: This step is not essential! (I generally keep the PM treatment ultra basic, as other products could clash or hinder the effectiveness of the highly powerful Vitamin A)

 Weekly

Treatment Skin Care Mask

Occasional 

Manual Exfoliator

I have religiously performed my daily skin care ritual ever since and believe that you have to be prepared to stick it out for the long haul to achieve your desired results.  I have tweaked my products numerous times to get to the stage where I am at now, I dare say I will do so again and again, because it’s is all part of my ongoing journey of establishing my ultimate skin care regime.  I am absolutely, 100%, confident, armed with this optimum anti-ageing skin care program, based on my skins individual needs, it will prompt a change in my skin for the better, delivering positive, visible RESULTS. 

Today, my complexion is looking immaculate and I am finally happy in my own skin.  While it’s a bit cliché, I wish I had of known all those years ago, what I know now!  I wouldn’t have neglected my skin, hence the need to rely on such powerful skin care treatments to try and reverse the signs of premature ageing, caused by damaging external aggressors, which I naively allowed my skin to become subject to.  The importance of a broad-spectrum SPF sunscreen daily, instead of endless hours roasting my skin, all in the name of a developing suntan, which later came back to haunt me. The damage is now done and whilst I can’t physically turn back the hands of time, I CAN help slow down the ageing process and prevent future skin damage.  Obviously, the changes in our appearance will be inevitable eventually, but at least I am confident knowing that my skin care regime allows me to have some control over the rate in which my skin ages, keeping my complexion looking younger and healthier for a bit longer. :)

I will write another blog featuring the products I use in my skin care regime directly and eventually I plan to review each of them too.  There are two morals to learn from this blog; don’t self assess your skin and prevention is better than cure, although if you devote to a strict skin care regime you CAN do battle with the visible signs of ageing and come out the victor. ;)

So tell me peeps, are you all serious about your skin care regime?  Do you wish you could go back in time, and if so would you change the way you looked after your skin?