super ingredients in your summer skincare
these are the super ingredients you *need* in your summer skincare routine
The transition to summer weather brings the smell of the sea, longer nights, and lazy days sipping cocktails. But there are a few things that aren’t quite as dreamy, like dramatic changes to your skin. We’re talking breakouts, dehydration, and premature ageing. To make the transition a little bit easier, we’ve rounded up seven of the super ingredients you need in your summer skincare regimen - in fact, you can find them all in our summer-in-a-bottle serums!
vitamin C (ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate) & vitamin E
Want fresh, glossy skin? Vitamin C is widely regarded as the ultimate skin brightening agent. Vitamin C products play a major role in collagen production. This means the super ingredient can help plump your skin, adding to the youthful look that everyone wishes for this time of year. Identifying the right type of vitamin C for your skin is essential. Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate is one of the most stable derivatives of vitamin C. Because it’s oil-soluble, Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate can be used in higher concentrations without irritating the skin, making it our pick for the best form of vitamin C. And things get even better when vitamin C and vitamin E - which fights off free radicals - get together. The combination is more effective in preventing photodamage than either vitamin alone.
vitamin c
Vitamin C (also referred to as ascorbic acid) is best known for its brightening powers (so long, dark spots!). Research shows it’s good for fading hyperpigmentation and evening out skin tone because it works to inhibit tyrosinase activity, which prevents melanin overproduction. It can also be beneficial for reducing redness associated with acne and rosacea, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. But that's not even the half of it – this superstar vitamin is a potent antioxidant, too, meaning it can be used to slow signs of ageing by neutralising free radicals. What’s more, it also boosts your skin’s ability to make collagen, which helps to soften existing fine lines and wrinkles. Overall, you’re left with a more radiant and youthful-looking complexion.
what should you look for when choosing a vitamin c serum?
The first thing to note is that there are different forms of vitamin C used in skincare. (Confusing, we know.) We chose to use ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate in sk.in avenge | ascorbyl t-15 because it’s a lipid-soluble derivative of vitamin C that is more easily absorbed into the skin and less likely to cause irritation. When looking at the ingredient list, it’s also important to go for a serum that pairs it with ferulic acid (more on that later). And when it comes to the packaging, your serum should be in an opaque bottle because vitamin C is prone to oxidising.
ferulic acid
Ferulic acid is an antioxidant found in the cell walls of plants and can help enhance vitamin C’s antioxidant powers. Why? Because ferulic acid actually prevents notoriously tricky vitamin C from oxidising and helps it retain its potency. So when these two ingredients come together, they have a synergistic effect, giving your skin the max number of benefits.
features & benefits
Here’s a quick summary of the benefits:
- Prevents signs of ageing by neutralising free radicals
- Fades hyperpigmentation by blocking tyrosinase
- Minimises fine lines and wrinkles by boosting collagen production
- Soothes redness with its anti-inflammatory properties
- Encourages cell repair for a stronger barrier
how to use
HOW: Apply a small amount to cleansed, dry skin. Let it fully absorb before continuing with your routine.
WHERE: It can be used as a spot treatment to target a specific concern such as hyperpigmentation or fine lines and wrinkles or to the whole face, neck and chest.
WHEN: If you’re using it as a targeted treatment, opt to use it two to three times a week in the morning. Apply it all over your face, neck and chest one or two mornings a week.
Plus, don't forget — always follow with SPF.
warnings & precautions
As with any active ingredient, sk.in avenge | ascorbyl t-15 should be introduced slowly and according to the how-to use application instructions.
