We all know that collagen plays a vital role in keeping our skin supple, firm and strong. But needless to say, there are a number of external factors that frequently test the limits of this vital collagen for our skin. After all, not only does collagen production naturally decline after the age of 25, but the sun’s UV rays also cause a lot of collagen-destroying oxidation, which leads to sagging, wrinkles, discoloration and more.
Of course, this is an issue any time of the year, but it can be especially difficult to deal with during the summer when the sun is at its strongest. But according to dermatologists, there’s one thing you can do to help combat some of the dreaded signs of aging caused by collagen loss: upping your intake of vitamin C, especially during everyone’s beloved sun-filled summer months.
“There is a misconception that vitamin C is photosensitive, but in fact, this vitamin is a powerful antioxidant that helps neutralize free radicals produced by exposure to sunlight,” explains Carlos Morales Raya, dermatologist and director of Clinica Dr. Morales Raya in Madrid. “This may reduce the risk of skin damage and photoaging. In addition, vitamin C plays an important role in collagen synthesis, promoting firmer, more elastic skin.”
Cleansing with Vitamin C
To that end, the dermatologist recommends using a stabilized vitamin C serum every morning, as well as doubling up on other, more powerful treatments. He particularly likes hydrafacials that are fortified with vitamin C products, such as Dr. Murad’s Vita-C Glycolic Serum, which is stabilized with gold and contains skin-brightening tranexamic acid. “There are a few reasons why I recommend this. First, it helps remove impurities, dead cells, and excess sebum. This is very important, as these elements can clog pores and increase the risk of acne breakouts in hot, humid summer environments. In addition, clean, exfoliated skin increases the absorption and effectiveness of sunscreen products and other topical treatments,” Raya explains. “Plus, deep cleansing prepares the skin for moderate sun exposure, putting it in its healthiest, most receptive state, reducing the chances of hyperpigmentation and sun damage. Adding vitamin C to your facial treatments also improves skin’s protection against oxidative stress caused by UV rays, improving skin brightness and evenness of tone.”
Collagen-boosting summer skin care
Intrigued? Well, there’s actually a lot more to know about vitamin C and the role it plays in protecting and repairing skin. While extra vitamin C can certainly help protect your skin from sun damage, clinical studies have shown that combining your sunscreen with other antioxidants like ferulic acid and vitamin E can further enhance the benefits of vitamin C. Taking these ingredients together may help reduce redness and protect your skin from long-term sun damage.
That’s why, in addition to getting a special treatment like a Vitamin C-enhanced HydraFacial, Raya says you should consider adding these steps to your summer skincare routine:
- Increase your use of topical antioxidants, such as serums containing vitamins C, E and ferulic acid, especially before heading off on a sun-soaked holiday: “These products will ensure that your skin is always well hydrated and that your skin barrier is strong.”
- At night, she uses products that contain hyaluronic acid and peptides to help repair skin and “keep it looking its best.”
- Avoid over-exfoliating, and “be mindful of signs of sun damage, blemishes, and inflammation.”
- It gently yet effectively cleanses, removing sunscreen and sweat residue.
- And of course, apply a SFP 50+ sunscreen every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating. “We also recommend wearing a wide-brimmed hat and protective clothing to minimize direct exposure to the sun,” says Raya.
