Why Your Vitamin C Product Could Be Irritating You

Vitamin C is hailed as a skincare powerhouse, known for its brightening, anti-aging, and antioxidant properties. However, not all Vitamin C products are created equal, and some can leave your skin feeling irritated rather than rejuvenated. If you've experienced redness, stinging, or dryness after using a Vitamin C product, here are some possible reasons why and what you can do about it.

Vitamin C comes in various forms, and not all are gentle on the skin. The most common form, L-ascorbic acid, is highly potent but also highly unstable, which can lead to irritation. It requires a low pH level to remain effective, often causing a stinging sensation, especially on sensitive skin. 

Solution: Opt for oil-soluble forms of Vitamin C, such as Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (THD Ascorbate).Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (THD Ascorbate) is oil-soluble, making it more stable and less likely to cause irritation compared to L-ascorbic acid. It penetrates the skin more deeply and effectively, which can enhance its benefits in terms of collagen production, brightening, and antioxidant protection. Because it is gentler, it is more suitable for sensitive skin or for those who experience irritation with more potent, less stable forms like L-ascorbic acid. At Ariu Skincare, we use THD Ascorbate to ensure the highest quality and safety for the sensitive skin of pregnant and nursing moms, sparing no expense in our commitment to their skincare needs.

Higher concentrations of Vitamin C can provide more noticeable results, but only up to a point. This point is typically around 15-20%. Beyond this concentration, the benefits do not significantly increase. Studies show that while concentrations above 20% do not enhance efficacy, they do increase the risk of irritation and sensitivity. The skin’s ability to absorb Vitamin C saturates at around 15-20%, making higher concentrations unnecessary and potentially harmful. Therefore, it’s best to use Vitamin C within this effective range to balance efficacy and skin tolerance.

Solution: Don’t use products that advertise anything over 15-20% vitamin C to avoid irritation. 

The pH level of a Vitamin C product plays a crucial role in its effectiveness and its potential to irritate. L-ascorbic acid is most effective at a pH of around 3.5, but this acidic environment can be too harsh for some skin types. While everyone’s skin pH is different, the average pH of human skin is slightly acidic, around 4.7 to 5.5. So with this information you can see why some people can become irritated from a product with a pH of 3.5. 

Solution: Look for products that balance efficacy with comfort. Products containing Vitamin C derivatives, such as Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (THD Ascorbate), Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, or Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, are effective at higher, more skin-friendly pH levels. These derivatives are less likely to cause irritation while still delivering the antioxidant benefits of Vitamin C.

Mixing Vitamin C with other active ingredients like retinoids or acids can heighten the risk of irritation. This combination can be too much for the skin to handle, leading to redness and sensitivity.

Solution: Use these potent ingredients at different times of the day or on alternate days. For instance, use Vitamin C in the morning and retinoids or exfoliating acids at night. This strategy allows your skin to reap the benefits of both without the irritation.

Vitamin C can be drying, particularly in its more potent forms. If your skin is not adequately hydrated, you may experience dryness and flakiness. This is a contributing factor as to why Ariu Skincare decided to formulate a Vitamin C Moisturizer instead of a serum. 

Solution: Always follow up with a good moisturizer after applying your Vitamin C serum. Look for hydrating ingredients like glycerin, and ceramides that can help lock in moisture and soothe the skin.

Experiencing irritation from Vitamin C doesn't mean you have to give up on this powerful ingredient altogether. By choosing the right form, concentration, and combination of products, you can enjoy the brightening and anti-aging benefits of Vitamin C without the unwanted side effects. At Ariu Skincare, we prioritize safe and effective formulations, ensuring that even the most sensitive skin can benefit from our Vitamin C product.

Remember, skincare is a journey, and finding the right balance for your skin can make all the difference. If irritation persists, consult with a dermatologist to tailor a routine that best suits your individual needs.

Stay radiant and irritation-free!

Join the Ariu Skincare Community At Ariu Skincare, we are committed to providing safe and simple skincare solutions for pregnant and nursing moms. Our products are carefully crafted to meet your unique needs, offering simplicity to your routine, peace of mind and effective results. Join our community for more skincare tips, product updates, and support on your journey to healthy, glowing skin during pregnancy and beyond!