When it comes to beauty, everyone knows it is what’s on the inside that counts. And this is especially true when it comes to skin.

Smooth, radiant skin requires a daily dose of vitamin C to build collagen, even skin tone, mop up free radicals and strengthen capillaries.  Think of it as skin care with a capital C.

Basically vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that combats free radical damage caused by exposure to UV radiation, environmental pollution, cigarette smoke and as a by-product of our metabolic processes.

If you’ve noticed how putting lemon juice on a slice of apple stops it turning brown then you’ve witnessed the power of vitamin C to prevent oxidation and cellular ageing.

Vitamin C also supports the health of tiny capillaries that supply nutrients to your skin cells. And if you need further convincing, it is essential for building collagen fibres that keep your skin smooth, firm and youthful-looking.

While your skin contains vitamin C, the concentration declines as you age, especially in your epidermis. Thus it becomes even more important to replenish your supplies with a daily dose of this skin-loving, water-soluble vitamin.

Signs of vitamin C deficiency can include a dull, uneven complexion, dry skin, fine lines, fragile capillaries and slow wound healing. Smoking, pollution, stress and unsafe sun exposure all deplete your vitamin C supplies, making daily replenishment even more important.

Getting enough vitamin C can be as simple as eating a handful of blueberries or strawberries in summer or citrus fruits in winter. Broccoli is also a good source of this skin-loving vitamin, collagen-boosting vitamin.

Eating the plant rainbow helps too. Bioflavonoids, the water-soluble plant chemicals that give fruits and vegetables their vivid colours, enhance the antioxidant capacity of vitamin C to help keep skin supple and elastic.

Australia’s native Kakadu Plum is another rich source of vitamin C offering 100 times the potency of an orange. That’s why Australian skincare company, MV Skintherapy, has included Kakadu Plum in its Oxygen o2 Moisturiser, as well as its new Native Power Serum.

MV Skintherapy’s Native Power Serum also contains antioxidant-rich, anti-inflammatory Davidson Plum, Quandong (wild peach) and Hyaluronic Acid for a boost in natural Vitamin C & AHA’s to boost collagen and elastin production, promote skin elasticity and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Topical applications of vitamin C have also been shown to benefit skin however the stability of vitamin C in topical solutions can be compromised by exposure to heat, light and air. However the vitamin C in MV’s Native Power Serum is in a stable, liquid extracted directly from the plants.

Agent Nateur’s Holi (C) Refining Face Vitamins is a water-soluble vitamin C powder made from Ascorbyl Phosphate.
The non-GMO Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (SAP)  sourced from Japan and France functions as an antioxidant that helps brighten uneven skin tone.

Research has also shown SAP may help prevent acne without harmful side effects. It also reduces sebum oxidation by up to 40 per cent and is antimicrobial.

Holi(c) also contains a patented French calcium that improves skin elasticity by stimulating the production of hyaluronic acid and elastin in the dermis.

How to use AGENT NATEUR’S holi(c) :

To activate this potent formula you simply mix a five cent piece sized amount of holi(c) with equal parts water and your favourite toner, moisturiser, SPF or serum. Use twice a day, after cleansing, in the morning and evening.

If you’re travelling, Agent Nateur The Holi (Trinity) Travel Size  is a convenient 3-step, vitamin C-rich regimen that includes:
1.   holi (water): a hydrating toner that exfoliates, plumps, tightens, and brightens the skin.

2.  holi (c): a powder-based serum that helps brighten, tighten, even out skin tone, fight free radicals, and minimises the appearance of scars, acne, and rosacea.

3.  holi (oil) to even out skin tone and minimises redness, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.

How to use MV Skintherapy Native Power Serum:

Spritz MV Skintherapy Rose Hydrating Mist onto a cleansed complexion and – while the skin is still damp – use relaxed palms to immediately smooth 1/2 a pump over face and neck, massaging until completely absorbed. If your skin requires more personalised care, follow this step with your favourite MV oil booster, Pure Jojoba or moisturiser. Use morning or night.

Words by Jody Scott for Bond Clean Beauty

Featured image by Julie Healy