Vitamin C: Its Role in Cosmeceuticals

Abstract

Background

Vitamin C is a well-known product used in cosmeceuticals for its various topical application benefits ranging from antioxidative, antiaging, anti-inflammatory, and anti-pigmentary among others. The main problems encountered with vitamin C products include the stability, penetrance into the skin, and tolerance of vitamin C's various forms.

Aims

This paper aims to explore current literature on the role of Vitamin C in cosmetic dermatology and present a review on how products have developed for certain purposes and their outcomes.

Methods

A literature search was conducted on PubMed reviewing vitamin C in cosmetic and non-cosmetic formulations and its utility for cosmetic dermatologic conditions. Research produced by various journals was then investigated to highlight its uses and potential in the field.

Results

Numerous studies support the varied claims regarding topical vitamin C, particularly in its role as an antioxidant, antiaging, anti-pigmentary, and anti-inflammatory agent. The integration of Vitamin C with other cosmetic ingredients is rapidly developing, ranging from vitamin E and natural plant extracts to several exfoliative acids and growth factors. The cosmetic industry's next steps involve better stabilization to improve the synergistic mechanisms with other ingredients and without lowering its bioavailability, efficacy, or absorption.

Conclusions

Vitamin C has proven to be a powerful player in cosmetic dermatology, both as a stand-alone element and in combination with cosmetic ingredients. This review showcases some of the most pertinent clinical studies that support its efficacy in mitigating photoaging, oxidative stress, abnormal pigmentation, and inflammation among other cosmetic concerns, underscoring the promise behind vitamin C.