So many products to choose from, so many ingredients to avoid, and so many equally tempting DIY creams that seem to be the perfect match for you – but how on Earth can you tell which elements you can rely on and which ratios are right? Luckily, simplicity is often the best and most nourishing solution, and using natural acids along with antioxidants has shown great results for all skin types.
But first, you might think – acids, are you kidding me?! They may evoke trepidation for those who aren’t familiar with their purpose in skin care, but read on and you’ll soon be acquainted with the numerous perks of using acids in your skin care regimen, and how they can be your best ally when combined with vitamin C when it comes to coping with many skin issues and enhancing your natural glow.
Getting to know AHAs
The group of acids known as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs for short) is an incredible, vegan-friendly family of plant-derived acids that include glycolic, lactic and citric acid, all of which are water soluble. This fantastic trio has many helpful qualities in combating skin imperfections, wrinkles and impurities, and as such, they can be used as potent, bead-free scrubs, such as the KORA Organics age-defying exfoliator, and skin-purifiers for those who need to tackle acne.
Exfoliation has been my own routine’s weak link until I started using this natural scrub. The fact that it is enriched with the famous noni plant, green tea and chamomile makes it all the more perfect for my delicate complexion. To be on the safe side, it’s important that acid virgins start incorporating them slowly and in small amounts because they may cause irritation for people with particularly sensitive skin. So, give your fair complexion time to adjust. They can also increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun, so keep up with your sunscreen on days when you use products with AHAs!
The antioxidant power of vitamin C
Just like your immune system can greatly benefit from ample vitamin C intake, so can your skincare routine, especially if you wish to have a brighter skin, an even, radiant complexion and preserved elasticity. Antioxidants, and vitamin C in particular, are for these reasons among all-time favorites when it comes to choosing natural ingredients to nurture your skin.
Vitamin C wards off free-radical damage, helps your skin recover from sun damage (which is of special importance for those of us who spend plenty of time in the sun), promotes self-healing, and aids collagen production. That is precisely why it’s found in high-quality products that nourish and protect your skin, such as The Ordinary’s anti-aging serum with high concentrations of vitamin C, which in my book, is anything but ordinary considering how much it has helped me fend off fine lines. Need I say more?
The best of both worlds
Since both the AHAs and vitamin C are such mighty components, and they have certain overlaps in purpose, there are a few ways you can use them safely and effectively. Once again, in case you have sensitive skin and you’re prone to irritation, redness and rashes, then applying these particular ingredients at different times is the best option to avoid overburdening your complexion.
First-time users can try using them on alternate days, with lower concentrations, to see how your skin will react and if you feel any discomfort. If your skin is already familiar with the world of acids, but you still need to tackle sensitivity, you can start your day with a vitamin C-rich lotion or serum, keeping in mind that AHAs might be best in the evening, when you will not have to worry about sun exposure.
The dynamic duo
Normal or combo skin types, on the other hand, can even give these two ingredients a go at once, but bear in mind that irritation might occur if you start off with too high a concentration. Combining a natural exfoliant such as AHAs can serve as an excellent preparation step for applying your antioxidant-rich moisturizer, brimming with vitamin C.
The former will unclog your pores, detox them from impurities and buildup of dead skin cells, and make for an ideal foundation to apply your rich cream. After the AHA-based scrub, which also lowers your skin’s pH levels slightly, your skin will absorb the vitamin C and other potent ingredients much more efficiently and balance your complexion. Whichever turns out to be the best combination for your skin, you will quickly notice how your complexion is becoming clearer, brighter and more resilient than ever!
Have you incorporated vitamin C and AHAs into your skin care regimen?
Also by Sophia: 6 Ways To Deeply Detox Your Skin When A Gentle Cleanser Just Won’t Cut It
Related: Celebrity Estheticians Share 10 Ingenious Skin Care Tips You Can Do At Home
This Tried-And-True DIY Rosehip Oil Moisturizer Is More Anti-Aging Than Botox
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