Ascorbic acid is an organic acid with antioxidant properties. Its
appearance is white to light yellow crystals or powder. It is water
soluble. The L-enantiomer of ascorbic acid is commonly known as vitamin
C.
Vitamin C is used in skin care products in the form of ascorbic acid.
At a 10% concentration and low ph, ascorbic acid has been shown to
stimulate collagen, decrease wrinkle depth and have lightening effects
on pigmentation. It was thought that a minimum 10% concentration was
required but newer information indicate that lower concentration (5%)
may have benefit.
When Ascorbic acid is applied topically at levels ranging from 0.3-10%, the benefits are:
-
Potent antioxidant, particularly in regard to protecting skin cells from UV-induced damage
- Delays tumor formation after (animal) skin is exposed to extensive UV damage
- Has a low risk of skin sensitization at concentrations up to 10% in the form of ascorbic acid
- Reduces transepidermal water loss, thus strengthening skin's barrier response
- Promotes collagen production and has the potential to thicken the dermis
- Reduces inflammation
- Ascorbic acid at levels of 5% and above has a positive effect on
hyperpigmentation (though the results are not as impressive as
hydroquinone, suggesting a combination of the two would be optimal)
- Improves the appearance of sun-damaged skin by strengthening skin's repair mechanisms
- Enhances the effectiveness of dermatologist-performed procedures such as peels and microdermabrasion
The kit includes:
- 2 packs 1g L-Ascorbic Acid (USP)
- 2 bottle 5ml vegetable glycerine
This recipe makes a serum with approximately a 10% concentration of vitamin C. There will be 2 portions, 1 for each week, to maintain freshness since L-Ascorbic Acid is unstable, prone to oxidation. Do keep the prepared serum in the fridge for longer lifespan.
Take care- these are active ingredients At this concentration it will
have a relatively low ph, and in some people this will be too
irritating for the skin. If this is the case, try making a half or even
quarter concentration to start with (ie using less of L-Ascorbic Acid). Use this for a week or two until
you know you skin is tolerating this, and then slowly increase to a
higher concentration. If after you apply it, you find your skin is
tingling excessively, wash off immediately.
Process:
- Dissolve 1 gram of L-ascorbic acid in 5 ml of
water (preferably distilled), in small glass container using a stirrer.
Make sure it is fully dissolved before proceeding to next step.
- Add 5 ml of glycerine and mix.
- Put in a sealable jar/bottle (you may use the containers we provide, do not use clear glass as this allows light in, and light degrades vitamin C.)
- Store in cool dry place.
If you have access of L-Ascorbic Acid vs Glycerin, fret not. Simply dissolve the L-Ascorbic Acid with water and mix into your favourite face cream. We advise a storage of 3 days supply and preferably in the fridge.
