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When it comes to summertime radiance, you only need to reach for two products to get glowing: a potent source of Vitamin C and a sunscreen. Read on to learn how to make the most of your daily summer ritual with these two essentials.
You likely already know that Vitamin C is an essential part of your diet. But beyond your morning glass of OJ, this powerhouse ingredient can do a lot to enhance your complexion. So what exactly does Vitamin C do for your skin?
When applied topically, Vitamin C can:
An added bonus? This potent nutrient is often found in bright, juicy and delicious summery botanicals like oranges, blueberries, blackberries, Kakadu plum, camu camu, kiwi and pineapple.
You probably apply sunscreen when the sun is shining its brightest. But you may not know that it’s important to use sun protection each and every day, especially when you’re spending lots of time outside. With all the summer fun of lounging by pools, backyard barbeques and frolicking on the beach, you’ll need to layer on your favorite sunscreen before heading outdoors – and be sure to reapply at least every two hours.
To get the most out of your sun care, ensure you’re applying SPF from head to toe, taking extra care to target your décolleté, hands, ears and feet. You can also pick up sun care products for your lips and scalp. And remember, when it comes to sun care, an SPF of 30 or more is ideal.
Some things are better together. Case in point: Vitamin C and SPF! For all its beneficial qualities, Vitamin C does have one drawback: It’s prone to oxidation, which diminishes its effectiveness. If you’ve used a Vitamin C serum before, you may have noticed that it comes in an opaque bottle or dark amber glass. This type of packaging blocks light from getting in, stopping oxidation before it starts. Not only could Vitamin C oxidize in the bottle, it may also oxidize on the skin. According to Lab Muffin, “Some vitamin C serums that contain ascorbic acid, [can cause] slightly darkened skin after a few days of use. The stained skin looks red or orange-brown, sort of like fake tan.” This tends to be the case when the Vitamin C is not paired with sun protection. But fear not! Layering SPF over Vitamin C helps prevent oxidation.
On her YouTube channel, London-based Cosmetic Dermatologist Dr. Sam Bunting explains these benefits. “No one gets 100% protection from UV from sunscreen,” she says. “ It’s almost impossible because we tend to underapply [sunscreen], it comes off through the day, maybe we’re not rigorous about topping up. We’re reliant on a second line of attack from an antioxidant serum, like a Vitamin C serum.”
Another perk to this combo? Vitamin C can actually boost sunscreen’s protective power. Chicago-based board-certified dermatologist Dr. Steven Mandrea, explains in an interview with Real Simple that “combining Vitamin C serum and broad-spectrum sunscreens that protect well against UVA rays has been shown to be more effective at neutralizing free radical damage from sun exposure than just using sunscreen alone.”
Ready to get glowing? This vitamin-rich routine brings on a bright, luminous look for all skin types.
Step 1
Mangosteen Daily Resurfacing Cleanser: This cleanser is perfect for smoothing texture without overstripping skin’s natural oils. A milky gel with a juicy scent, you’ll love this cleanser as a new addition to your skin care practice.
Step 2
Pineapple Refining Tonique: Tropical and vibrant, this toner smells like fresh pineapple juice! This daily formula combines gentle bromelain and PHA to exfoliate all skin types, including sensitive. Chemical exfoliation may sound daunting, but PHA and bromelain are gentle enough to get the job done without irritation.
Step 3
Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Serum: Bring on the brightness with this award-winning serum.
Made with stabilized Vitamin C, Vitamin E, avocado, leafy greens and citrus oils, this serum is well-loved for its ability to reveal skin that looks youthful, plump and bright.
Step 4
Arctic Berry Peptide Radiance Cream + Superfood Booster-Powder: Conquer dullness and dehydration with two illuminating formulas. First, reach for the Arctic Berry Peptide Radiance Cream. This hydrator firms and brightens the skin’s appearance with antioxidant-rich berries and our Peptide Illuminating Complex. Take it to the next level by adding a scoop of the Superfood Booster-Powder. This fine powder blends seamlessly into the moisturizer and indulges skin with Vitamins C, B3 and K from Kakadu plum, coix seed and spirulina.
Step 5
Hibiscus Ultra Lift Eye Cream: A bright summer routine wouldn’t be complete without a revitalizing eye cream. Made with hibiscus, ice wine actives and caffeine, the Hibiscus Ultra Lift Eye Cream de-puffs, lifts, brightens and tightens. All that in one quick and easy step! Plus, the cooling applicator feels super refreshing on the skin, especially on a hot day.
Step 6
Lilikoi Daily Defense Moisturizer SPF 40: Protect skin with this broad-spectrum UVA and UVB SPF, enhanced with Vitamin C-rich lilikoi (aka passionfruit). The Lilikoi Daily Defense Moisturizer SPF 40 uses zinc oxide to provide sun protection. This formula also contains cocoa seed extract and satsuma mandarin peel, which helps improve the look of skin exposed to environmental stressors like blue light and pollution. Perfect year-round, especially for those sunny beach days!
Credits: Eminence organics and Skincarebutik
