What is vitamin C in skincare?
Vitamin C is an antioxidant and an essential cofactor in collagen synthesis. In skincare it appears as L-ascorbic acid – the purest and best-studied form – or as more stable derivatives such as sodium ascorbyl phosphate, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate and tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate.
Skin cannot make its own vitamin C, and levels fall with age and UV exposure. Applied topically at the right pH and concentration, it penetrates the epidermis and replenishes what has been depleted.
What skin concerns does vitamin C treat?
It neutralises free radicals generated by UV and pollution, which makes it a genuine daytime defence layer under sunscreen rather than a replacement for it. It also inhibits tyrosinase, the enzyme behind melanin production, so it fades dark spots and evens overall tone.
Because it is required for collagen cross-linking, consistent use improves firmness and softens fine lines. Clinical work shows measurable benefit in photoaging and melasma over several months.
What ingredients are best paired with vitamin C?
Vitamin E and ferulic acid are the classic partners – together they stabilise L-ascorbic acid and multiply its photoprotective effect. Add hyaluronic acid to offset any dryness, and follow with broad-spectrum SPF every morning.
Niacinamide and vitamin C work well together in modern formulations, despite the old myth that they cancel out. Avoid layering it directly with strong AHAs, BHAs or benzoyl peroxide in the same step. Store it dark and airtight; oxidised vitamin C turns orange and stops working. Take our Skin Quiz.
What is crepey skin?
Crepey skin is skin that has become thin, loose and finely wrinkled, with the papery texture of crepe paper. It differs from ordinary wrinkles in that it affects a broad area rather than forming distinct lines, and it appears most on the under-eyes, neck, décolletage, upper arms and inner thighs.
The hallmark is loss of elasticity: pinched skin takes longer to snap back, and the surface looks crinkled even at rest.
What causes crepey skin?
The main driver is degradation of the elastin network in the dermis. Cumulative ultraviolet exposure breaks down elastic fibres and replaces them with disorganised material – the process called solar elastosis – while collagen production falls at the same time.
Age, chronic dehydration, significant weight loss, smoking, and the natural drop in oestrogen around menopause all accelerate it. Body areas get less skincare attention than the face, which is why crepiness often shows there first.
What ingredients are best for crepey skin?
Retinoids remain the best-evidenced option for rebuilding collagen and thickening the dermis over months of use. Peptides support elastin and collagen signalling, and vitamin C protects existing fibres while aiding synthesis.
Layer those over rich hydration – hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides, squalane and shea butter – which visibly improves the crinkled look even before structural change happens. Daily SPF on neck, chest and hands prevents further breakdown. Take our Skin Quiz.
