Skin Care: Does Vitamin C Serum Really Protect You From The Sun? Here's The Truth

Vitamin C serum is a huge deal in skincare today. Many people believe it can protect their skin from the sun. But is that really true? We break down what medical experts have to say about this.

Sun Rays and Sunscreen:

Sunscreens block harmful UV rays in two ways. They stop UVB rays to prevent sunburns and skin cancer. They also filter UVA rays to stop wrinkles and skin ageing. This makes sunscreen absolutely essential for sun protection.

A Shield Against Free Radicals:

Vitamin C doesn't block sun rays directly like a sunscreen. Instead, it works as a powerful antioxidant. Sunlight and pollution create unstable molecules called 'free radicals' in our skin. These radicals break down collagen, making the skin look dull. Vitamin C serum neutralises these free radicals and stops them from damaging skin cells.

What Studies Say:

Studies show that Vitamin C serum works even better when you use it with sunscreen. A 1996 medical study proved this. It found that antioxidants like Vitamin C and E, when paired with sunscreen, create an 'additional line of defence' for the skin against damage from UVA rays.

The Right Habits:

Medical experts are clear on this: Vitamin C serum is not a substitute for sunscreen. It's just a helpful addition. For healthy skin, you must regularly use a good, broad-spectrum sunscreen and try to avoid direct sunlight during peak hours. That's the best way forward.