VITAMIN C IN AESTHETIC MEDICINE : ANTI-AGING AND SKIN RADIANCE

What is vitamin C ?

Vitamin C, scientifically known as ascorbic acid, is an essential micronutrient naturally present in various foods and available in dietary supplement form. This nutrient plays a crucial role in many physiological processes in the human body. Among its main functions, vitamin C facilitates the synthesis of collagen, a structural protein essential for the formation and maintenance of connective tissues, including the skin, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels. Additionally, it is fundamental for tissue growth and repair, thus contributing to the overall health and integrity of the body’s systems.

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Properties of vitamin C

Vitamin C has powerful antioxidant properties, allowing it to neutralize and reduce the harmful effects of free radicals. These unstable molecules can cause oxidative stress and cellular damage, which are involved in the development of various diseases and the aging process. By combating these harmful agents, vitamin C helps prevent oxidative damage, strengthens the immune system, and contributes to overall health and well-being.

In summary, vitamin C is essential for maintaining optimal health and fighting the signs of aging.

What are the benefits of vitamin C for skin care ?

Vitamin C is essential for the growth and repair processes of all tissue types in the body. It plays a vital role in wound healing and in maintaining the structural integrity of bones, cartilage, skin, and teeth. Furthermore, vitamin C protects the skin against daily aggressors such as ultraviolet (UV) rays and air pollutants, which can cause skin damage and premature aging.

Recognized as one of the body's most powerful antioxidants, topically applied vitamin C has healing properties for the skin. It promotes the biosynthesis of key proteins such as collagen and elastin, as well as melanin. Collagen and elastin are essential for maintaining the strength, elasticity, and structural support of the skin, thereby helping to fight signs of premature aging. Melanin, responsible for skin pigmentation, plays a role in protecting against UV damage. By increasing the production of these proteins, topical vitamin C can improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of spots or hyperpigmentation, and promote overall skin rejuvenation.

Vitamin C can also be injected using mesotherapy techniques, particularly in facial mesotherapy , also known as mesolift.

Nutritional recommendations for vitamin C intake

Consume vitamin C–rich foods

To improve your daily vitamin C intake, incorporate a variety of fruits and vegetables that are high in this vitamin. This approach provides essential vitamins while contributing to a balanced and diverse diet.

Fruit choices

Choose fruits rich in vitamin C such as blueberries, cantaloupe, cranberries, grapefruit, kiwis, mangoes, oranges, papayas, pineapples, and watermelon.

Vegetable choices

These vegetables are excellent sources of vitamin C: broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, leafy green vegetables (such as kale and spinach), peppers (including bell peppers and chili peppers), squash, sweet potatoes, and tomatoes.

By incorporating these fruits and vegetables into your daily diet, you will benefit not only from the effects of vitamin C but also from dietary fiber and other essential nutrients.

Vitamin C-based creams and topicals

Topical preparations with vitamin C

Topical vitamin C formulations have gained popularity in recent years due to their proven effectiveness in improving skin health. Vitamin C, easily absorbed by the skin, offers a range of benefits when included in skincare products such as creams, powders, and serums.

Personalized application for each skin type

The effectiveness of vitamin C topical products may vary depending on skin type and specific goals. The doctor conducts a thorough skin evaluation to recommend the vitamin C product best suited to your unique skin condition and desired outcomes.

General benefits of topical vitamin C

Topical vitamin C applications are known for their ability to reduce redness, even out skin tone, enhance radiance, and delay the appearance of premature signs of aging.

Vitamin C supplementation

Incorporate vitamin C supplements into your diet

Supplementation can be an effective way to increase your vitamin C intake. However, it is essential to consult your doctor or a licensed dietitian before beginning any supplementation. This precaution ensures that the supplement is appropriate for your health status.

Personalised recommendations

Following a comprehensive assessment of your health status, eating habits, and wellness goals, a daily vitamin C supplement may be recommended. This recommendation will depend on the results of your health evaluation and aim to support your overall health and well-being.

The importance of professional guidance for vitamin C supplementation

Approaching supplementation with caution and under the guidance of a qualified professional is essential. This ensures that the supplementation strategy is safe, effective, and tailored to meet your needs.

The careful use of vitamin C supplements, under the supervision of healthcare professionals, can be a valuable component of a holistic approach to nutrition and health.

Photo of doctor Valeria Romano in Geneva

Article written by Dr Romano Valeria

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