Well Groomed | Supercharged SPF
Some of us are off to Portugal, while some of us are praying for the sun to make an appearance so we can finally remove some layers. Warm weather or not, we know that a daily sunscreen routine is paramount to healthy skin, but did you know that you can up the ante on your protection from the effects of the sun by adding Vitamin C to your SPF?
We asked Dr Lauren Hamilton, aesthetic doctor and founder of skin clinic Victor & Garth, and Dr Emma Cunningham, aesthetic doctor and founder of Dr Emma Advanced Aesthetics, to explain the why so’s and the how to’s…
Why should we consider combining Vitamin C with SPF?
According to Dr Lauren, “Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant which prevents oxidative damage by binding to the free radicals caused by UV radiation and pollution. Research has shown that when paired, Vitamin C boosts protection provided by SPF. Exposure to UV stimulates melanocytes which manifest through sunspots, freckles and hyperpigmentation. This damage can lie underneath the skin and surface later in life however Vitamin C is a depigmenting agent, otherwise known as a tyrosinase inhibitor which means that it can stop the action of tyrosine, which is key in melanin synthesis, and prevent hyperpigmentation from appearing.”
Dr Emma, aesthetic doctor and founder of Dr Emma Skin Clinics agrees and says, “It’s important that we don't overlook the power of Vitamin C as it’s the perfect back-up to your sun protection. A powerful antioxidant, it works by scavenging on free radicals to prevent signs of premature ageing on skin which means that when used in tandem with SPF, it not only protects but also boosts”
When should we apply Vitamin C in line with our SPF?
According to Dr Emma, “following your Vitamin C, you should apply two finger lengths of product every morning, topping up every two hours.”
Dr Lauren agrees and says “Vitamin C should be used daily before your SPF. If you have concerns about sun damage or hyperpigmentation, then consider concentrations of 10% to 20% but do also talk to an aesthetic doctor or dermatologist should you be looking for help in finding the right regime.”
Well Curated Vitamin C…
Beauty Stat Universal C Refiner, £96
A lightweight gel-cream formulated with 20% pure and stable Vitamin C for brighter, firmer, and more even-looking skin. The unique fragrance-free formula feels like a plush gel with tiny granules of encapsulated L-Ascorbic acid that instantly absorb right into skin. Paired with EGCG (the active in green tea), squalane, and exfoliating tartaric acid, this genius formula will deliver brighter, smoother skin faster than most other Vitamin C products out there.
Drunk Elephant C-Firma Day Serum, £67
This powerful day serum boasts 15% L-Ascorbic Acid (the gold standard of Vitamin C), along with gently exfoliating fruit enzymes which work in harmony to improve skin texture and diminish signs of photoaging. C-Firma™ is cruelty-free and 100% free of essential oils, silicones, and fragrances. It has a pH level of 3.3 which is potent enough to work its magic without irritating the skin.