Can vitamin C products irritate sensitive skin? – GOOD SHAPE

foods with more vitamin C than oranges (Stephanie Harvey, Unsplash/Playback)

You probably already know the benefits that vitamin C can bring to our skincare routine. The antioxidant can lighten hyperpigmentation, diminish fine lines, and increase overall radiance. However, good skincare ingredients come with great responsibilities. For those with sensitive skin, certain forms of vitamin C can cause dryness, flaking and even redness.

Physician Patricia Ludwig (@dra_patricia_ludwig), a specialist in facial aesthetics, explains. “The more potent the form of vitamin C, the more irritating for those with sensitive skin. When combined with other acids, such as alpha hydroxy acid, the active can be even worse.”

What to do?

Care is needed when introducing any vitamin C product into your self-care routine. The doctor recommends starting with a lower concentration, on average 10%, and increasing to 15 to 20% over time. In addition, the specialist advises that the product be tested beforehand or initially applied only two to three times a week.

Patrícia remembers, moreover, that it is not only sensitive skin that can suffer from the problem. “Irritation can occur due to a weak skin barrier, which is not able to deal with changes in pH levels. So, before using any new product, look for an expert. If you find that your skin is becoming irritated by any products, ask your doctor.”