The trend for a glowing complexion has dominated the past decade. From fresh faced to a glass like complexion, the desire for a more natural looking finish that combines skin health with luminosity is really evident. But sadly, lifestyle factors be it a hectic work schedule, busy social life, stress, and lack of sleep can all contribute to a grey and lacklustre complexion, not to mention high levels of pollution and harmful UV rays in the environment. Fresh skin should be clean, hydrated, balanced, and have youthful energy and this can be achieved with a good night’s sleep, balanced diet but most importantly with specific skincare actives – enter Vitamin C, an ingredient superstar that digs deep to set you on your quest for that ‘lit from within’ glow.

Vitamin C is one of the most researched skincare ingredients out there and has a boatload of benefits.  It has been scientifically proven to improve the appearance of the skin in a number of ways and this is the reason Gatineau touts Vitamin C as a golden standard skincare ingredient that absolutely everyone can reap the incredible rewards from. Over the decades it's stealthily made its way into many of our favourite formulas and most recently into the BRAND NEW Radiance Enhancing Vitamin C Serum which makes its debut appearance this month where it will be unveiled as part of an extremely exciting August TSV.

Think of Vitamin C as the vitamin world’s best giver that can help address countless skin concerns from uneven skin tone, sun damage, rough texture, fine lines, acne scars and general dullness but at its core Vitamin C is potent antioxidant found in wide range of plants, leafy green vegetables, and citrus fruits.  In the world of skincare its power lies in its ability to neutralise unstable molecules (aka free radicals) that can damage the skin due to environmental aggressors like UV rays and pollution and aid in the skin’s natural regeneration process to help repair damaged skin cells. Vitamin C has the power to elevate skincare routines from satisfactory to sensational – it will work wonders on your skin.

Let’s dig a little deeper into the qualities of this magic Vitamin C….

Promote Collagen production – If fine lines and wrinkles are becoming bothersome, add Vitamin C to your skincare basket because it accelerates the production of collagen and elastin, they key proteins of the skin to keep it smooth and firm.  By fighting free radicals Vitamin C helps to support the skin as it ages by warding off damage.

Hydrating Hero – If your skin is feeling a little parched a hefty dose of Vitamin C will help to fortify the skin’s protective barrier and reduce trans epidermal water loss ensuring that the skin remains hydrated and plump. This hydration is essential for protecting skin from environmental stressors that can cause inflammation.  

Even out skin tone and boosts brightness – One of Vitamin C’s most revered benefits is how it can brighten the overall complexion and bring an even glow to the skin.  This is because it blocks the enzyme responsible for pigmentation production (melanin) evening out discolouration and texture simultaneously improving the overall radiance of the skin. Its literally like a carpet stain-repelling treatment but for skin!

Protection – As the largest organ of the body, whose role is to protect internal organs against harmful external factors, Vitamin C swoops in to help by warding off the damage from free radicals, the pesky toxins responsible for damaging cells.

Anti-inflammatory – Playing a pivotal role in the health and regeneration of the tissues, Vitamin C is a powerful ally in the battle against skin irritation and redness and your new saviour against inflammation as it enhances the natural healing process making it an ideal choice for soothing and healing inflamed skin.

In the ever-evolving world of skincare, the enduring relevance of Vitamin C is a testament to its unparalleled efficacy in promoting skin health and vitality.  A true multi-tasker, this is the skincare secret that’s making waves.  Whether you are looking for a collagen boost, a brightening buddy, a sun shield, or a hydrating hero, in the quest for happy skin Vitamin C will always steal the spotlight!

Lucy x