Living in bustling Indian metros like Mumbai and Delhi can take a toll on your skin, with pollution accelerating aging and pigmentation. Dr. Mikki Singh emphasizes the importance of Vitamin C as a powerful antioxidant, neutralizing free radicals and boosting collagen. She recommends stabilized derivatives over unstable L-ascorbic acid for better efficacy and advises pairing it with SPF for comprehensive protection. In these cities, where pollution levels exceed safe limits, Vitamin C is not just a luxury but a necessity. It helps reduce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, improves radiance, and provides photoprotection. However, the stability of Vitamin C is crucial. Pure L-ascorbic acid is unstable and can oxidize, leading to irritation. Stabilized derivatives like sodium ascorbyl phosphate and ascorbyl glucoside are gentler and more effective. Concentration is not the only factor; proper storage and formulation matter. Layering Vitamin C with SPF is essential, as it amplifies UV protection. While it's not a magic shield, Vitamin C is a well-supported tool in the fight against environmental damage, delivering visible results when used correctly and consistently.
