Normal skin contains high concentrations of vitamin C, which supports important and well-known functions. It stimulates collagen synthesis and assists in antioxidant protection against photodamage induced by ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Now, what will be the role of vitamin C in skin health?
Vitamin C in Skin Health
The role of cofactor for collagen hydroxylases was the first function of vitamin C that was closely linked to maintaining skin health. Likewise, the antioxidant activity of vitamin C has made it an excellent candidate as a protective factor against UV radiation. These two hypotheses have driven most of the research on the role of vitamin C and skin health to date.
Skin fibroblasts have an absolute dependence on vitamin C for collagen synthesis and for the regulation of collagen/elastin balance in the dermis. In addition, vitamin C supplementation has been shown to improve collagen synthesis with animal studies.
Vitamin C, keratinocytes and aging
Skin keratinocytes have the ability to accumulate high concentrations of vitamin C, and this in association with vitamin E confers protection against UV irradiation. The analysis of keratinocytes in culture also showed that vitamin C influences the gene expression of antioxidant enzymes and promotes the differentiation of the epithelium in general.
In addition, the signs of aging in human skin can be improved with the supply of vitamin C. Several studies support this, although measuring skin changes is difficult. Some studies include objective measurements of collagen deposition and wrinkle depth. Finally, the supply of vitamin C to the skin greatly aids in wound healing and minimizes the formation of elevated scars.
Clinical practice
The high concentration of vitamin C in the skin indicates that it has a number of important biological functions relevant to skin health. Based on the functions of this vitamin its benefits to the skin are associated with the aid in the formation of collagen and antioxidant protection.
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Vitamin C and skin
– Pullar JM, Carr AC, MCM Vissers. The Roles of Vitamin C in Skin Health. Nutrients. 2017;9(8):866. Published 2017 Aug 12. doi:10.3390/nu9080866
