The Benefits of Vitamin C | What It Does, How to Use It and What to Avoid

Vitamin C is one of the most studied and recommended skincare ingredients. Known for its antioxidant power and ability to brighten skin and support collagen, it plays a key role in maintaining a radiant, even-toned complexion. But how exactly does it work, and can it help with acne?

What Is Vitamin C and Why Is It Important for Skin?

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the skin from oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is the damage caused when pollution, UV rays and other environmental factors create an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body. This leads to collagen breakdown, inflammation and signs of ageing.

“Vitamin C is a powerful skin protector and repairer. It is a vital part of my morning skincare routine, especially when paired with other antioxidants,” says Dr Sturnham.

Since the body cannot produce vitamin C on its own, applying it topically is essential for targeting the skin directly.

How Vitamin C Benefits the Skin

When used consistently, vitamin C can:

• Brighten uneven tone
• Fade pigmentation and dark spots
• Support collagen production
• Minimise the appearance of fine lines
• Improve skin texture and radiance

Does Vitamin C Help Acne?

Yes. While it is not a substitute for prescribed acne treatments, vitamin C can support clearer skin in several ways.

Calms Inflammation- Vitamin C helps soothe redness and irritation caused by breakouts.

Supports Wound Healing- It speeds up skin recovery and helps reduce the risk of post-acne scarring.

Reduces Hyperpigmentation- It fades dark spots by slowing melanin production in inflamed areas.

Provides Antioxidant Protection- Vitamin C defends against pollution, UV and stress-related damage that can worsen acne.

Can Vitamin C Cause Acne?

Vitamin C does not cause acne, but certain formulas might contribute to breakouts if:

• They contain high concentrations (above 20%) that irritate sensitive skin

• They oxidise due to poor packaging or storage

• They include heavy oils or fragrances that clog pores

If your skin reacts after introducing vitamin C, switch to a lower concentration or a gentler derivative.

Can Vitamin C Help With Acne Scarring?

Yes. Vitamin C is especially effective for fading post-inflammatory pigmentation left by acne. Results typically begin to show after 4 to 8 weeks of consistent use.

How to Use Vitamin C Safely for Acne-Prone Skin

For best results:

• Apply in the morning after cleansing and before moisturiser and SPF

• Choose a product with added calming ingredients like niacinamide, ferulic acid or panthenol

• Avoid layering with strong acids or retinol in the same routine

• Look for lightweight, non-comedogenic serums in airtight, opaque packaging

Dr Sturnham recommends Decree’s Protect Elixir, which combines 15% stabilised vitamin C with 2% niacinamide and a curated antioxidant blend to brighten and support the skin barrier.

Choosing the Right Type of Vitamin C

Each form has unique benefits:

• Ascorbic acid – the most potent and well-studied

• Ascorbyl glucoside – gentler and converted into vitamin C by the skin

• Sodium ascorbyl phosphate – good for acne-prone skin

• Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate – calming and suitable for sensitive skin

• Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate – oil-soluble and suited to dry or mature skin

• 3-O ethyl ascorbic acid – newer, highly stable and fast-absorbing

“For most people, a 10 to 15% vitamin C serum stabilised with ferulic acid is the sweet spot - potent, protective and effective,” says Dr Sturnham.

Final Thoughts

Vitamin C is one of skincare’s most effective multitaskers. When applied daily in the right format, it can protect, brighten and support acne-prone skin without irritation.

Choose a high-quality, expertly balanced formula, and apply it as part of your morning routine.

Explore our vitamin C skincare to discover antioxidant-rich solutions for clearer, brighter skin. Or learn more about our best-selling serum, the Protect Elixir.