As the skincare world continues to evolve, so do the myths that swirl around it. And one widespread misconception is that applying topical Vitamin C can make your skin more sensitive to the sun—when in reality, the opposite is true.
Unlike some active ingredients that can cause irritation or increased sensitivity to sunlight (like AHAs, BHAs, and retinoids), Vitamin C provides photoprotection, a barrier against the damaging effects of UV rays. So this potent antioxidant doesn’t just help safeguard against UV damage; it actually works synergistically with your sunscreen to enhance its effectiveness.
Then why do so many people think they need to skip their Vitamin C serum in the summer?
This myth likely persists due to a misunderstanding of Vitamin C's properties. Traditional Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) breaks down upon exposure to UV light, oxidizing and losing its potency. So technically, it doesn’t make your skin more sensitive to the sun, but Vitamin C does become less effective when exposed to sunlight. When the Vitamin C oxidizes and is less potent, it can no longer provide adequate protection against UV damage, which might lead to increased vulnerability to burning.
However, BV-OSC (tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate), which is the stable, fat-soluble form of Vitamin C that Core Ritual™ uses, helps address and overcome these limitations. Unlike ascorbic acid, BV-OSC does not oxidize easily and retains its protective properties even when exposed to sunlight.
THE POWER OF PROTECT™ VITAMIN C SERUM
When it comes to daytime face care, Protect is your skin’s best friend, especially during the sun-soaked summer months. This Vitamin C + Environmental Defense Serum utilizes BV-OSC to help protect against UV damage and keep your skin looking radiant and protected from the sun's harsh effects.
Here’s how Protect helps enhance your skin's defense system:
Photoprotection: Photoprotection refers to the mechanisms by which skin is protected from the harmful effects of UV radiation. BV-OSC helps neutralize free radicals produced by UV exposure, reducing oxidative stress and preventing cellular damage.
Barrier Strengthening: By enhancing the skin's natural moisture barrier, Protect helps ensure your skin remains hydrated and resilient against environmental aggressors.
Brightening and Radiance: Regular use of Protect helps inhibit melanin production, minimizing the appearance of sun spots and hyperpigmentation for a more even complexion.
A More Youthful Glow: Protect serum promotes collagen production, helping to maintain skin elasticity and reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
There's so much more to discover about the benefits of BV-OSC Vitamin C and Protect. You can explore all the details in this blog post.
ENHANCING SUNSCREEN’S EFFECTS WITH BV-OSC VITAMIN C
While the BV-OSC Vitamin C in Protect offers valuable photoprotection, it should never replace your sunscreen. Sunscreen remains your first line of defense against UVA and UVB rays by absorbing or reflecting UV radiation to prevent it from penetrating the skin. When used together, Protect and a high-quality sunscreen (we like Bare Republic) create a robust defense strategy against UV damage.
The BV-OSC Vitamin C in Protect helps address oxidative stress caused by any UV rays that manage to get through, complementing the protective barrier provided by sunscreen. This combined approach significantly improves overall skin defense, making UV-induced damage less likely.
Especially beneficial for daytime use, the inclusion of BV-OSC in Protect is ideal for summer when UV exposure is highest. This potent form of vitamin C not only helps guard against UV damage but also helps brighten the skin and reduce dark spots. Incorporating Protect into your morning routine helps ensure your skin stays radiant and shielded from the sun's harsh effects.
COMBINING PROTECT WITH A RELIABLE SPF IS YOUR ULTIMATE STRATEGY FOR SUN-SAFE SKINCARE
Combining Protect and sunscreen makes for a simple way to enjoy the sun while keeping your skin safe. Just follow these easy steps in your skincare routine, and you'll be ready to soak up the sunshine with confidence.
- Cleanse: Begin with Cleanse™ to remove dirt, oil, and impurities, providing a fresh canvas for optimal absorption.
- Protect: Apply ¾ dropper full of Protect Vitamin C Serum to help shield your skin with potent antioxidants and enhance your defense against UV damage.
- Hydrate:To add a boost of moisture, apply 2-3 pumps of Hydrate™ to fingertips and gently massage to keep your skin plump, nourished, and resilient throughout the day.
- Sunscreen: Complete your routine with a layer of your favorite high-quality sunscreen, forming a comprehensive shield that works in harmony with Protect for maximum protection.
Ready to experience the difference with Core Ritual Protect and give your skin the defense it deserves?
You can learn more and buy Protect here.
