With the well documented effects of climate change coming into focus, it has become clear to many scientists and physicists that the depletion of the Earth's ozone layer will have far reaching and varying effects. One of the predicted effects is an increase in UV radiation in many areas, including the southern latitudes. We know that exposure to UV radiation leads to free radical damage on our skin which in turn leads to sun damage, premature aging and even skin cancer. Free radicals occur naturally as we age but are exacerbated by exposure to pollutants, smoke and UV radiation from the sun. In order to protect ourselves from the increasing UV radiation, it is important that we do what we can to protect our skin from these harmful free radicals which ravage our skin and deplete collagen levels, the fibrous protein that gives skin its firmness and elasticity.

Free radical damage is best combated with the use of antioxidants, substances such as phytochemicals, vitamins and other nutrients that remove these potentially damaging oxidizing agents from our skin. Few antioxidants have as much scientific evidence to support their efficacy as vitamin C, which has been shown not only to heal sun damage and discoloration from past exposure, but also to inhibit the damaging effects of UV rays when applied topically. Additionally, according to a study done by Duke University, Vitamin E and Ferulic acid, when combined with Vitamin C, are shown to have a compounding effect, boosting the UV protectant effects of Vitamin C by 8 fold. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient for the formation of collagen and since increasing your oral intake of Vitamin C does not stimulate the skin cells that synthesize collagen, called fibroblasts, it is best to apply it topically.

Vitamin C is also useful for other common skin problems such as acne, hyperpigmentation and general irritation. By normalizing the amount of sebum produced by the skin, it can reduce blackheads and pimples and other skin problems generally associated with oily skin. Vitamin C also has skin lightening effects which can reduce discoloration caused by sun exposure and hyperpigmentation.

It is vital that when choosing a topical vitamin C serum one considers that in order for the product to be effective, it must not be oxidized. Using a vitamin C serum that has oxidized can have an opposite effect and contribute to free radical damage. For this reason, Vitamin C serum should be stored in an airtight, dark or opaque container. Additionally, some forms of Vitamin C are more stable than others and have a longer shelf life. Sodium ascorbyl phosphate is a very stable, bioavailable form of Vitamin C which can generally be used by people with sensitive skin that may be irritated by the more popular (and less stable) L-ascorbic acid.

No matter where you are in your life, in your youth or aging gracefully, using Vitamin C topically can provide a host of benefits from protecting against UV damage to healing past damage.