Brightening antioxidant
Vitamin C
Brightens skin and reduces the look of dark spots.
What it is
Vitamin C is an antioxidant used widely in skincare, usually as L-ascorbic acid or a gentler derivative such as ethyl ascorbic acid. In a routine it is valued for helping skin look brighter and more even.
What it's used for
- Helping dull skin look brighter
- Reducing the appearance of dark spots and uneven tone
- Supporting skin against day-to-day environmental stress
Who it suits
People whose main frustration is dullness or patches of darker tone rather than active breakouts.
Appears in our routines for
Things worth knowing
- Introduce it gradually rather than daily from the start.
- Wear sunscreen — brightening work is undone by unprotected sun exposure.
- Vitamin C formulas can oxidise; a formula that has turned deep orange is past its best.
This is general guidance, not personal advice. If you are unsure whether an ingredient suits you, a Skin Check puts it in front of a Skinwise expert.
Where it fits in a routine
Usually applied in the morning, after cleansing and before moisturiser and sunscreen.
Concerns it relates to
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