Vitamin C is a great ingredient that brightens skin, protects against pollution and fights dark spots and scarring. And while it’s a must-have in many people’s daily skincare routine, it might be one of those ingredients that makes you think twice about taking it with you on holiday…
Active ingredients like those found in the best vitamin C serums, retinoids, and AHAs are notoriously difficult to incorporate into your skincare routine safely and without irritation. But once they’re in, your skin will notice a world of difference.
So what happens when your environment changes and you find yourself in a tropical destination with a much hotter climate than at home? Should you skip vitamin C (or even leave it at home) and limit your routine? To get a clear answer, we spoke to the experts to get their thoughts on using vitamin C in warmer climes.
Can you use vitamin C in hot countries? Skin experts share their thoughts
As with all potent ingredients in skin care products, mistakes are common when using vitamin C. To help you avoid any potential missteps with your brightening serum or cream, the experts have weighed in on how to use it correctly – especially when on vacation in sunnier climes…
Can you take vitamin C on a hot holiday?
Unlike retinol, which can be a little more unpredictable in its effects (but is usually still safe with the right precautions), using vitamin C while on vacation is pretty safe. In fact, there are far more positives than negatives.
“You can certainly use vitamin C as long as your skin isn’t too sensitive,” says Dr. Emmaline Ashley, aesthetic physician and academic director at Acquisition Aesthetics. “In fact, vitamin C works wonderfully with sunscreen to protect your skin from the extra sun exposure by acting as an antioxidant and breaking down free radicals.”
Dr. Alexis Granite, dermatologist and founder of JOONBYRD, agrees: “Vitamin C pairs well with sunscreen because its antioxidant properties help prevent free radical damage from UV rays and pollution. It also helps prevent pigmentation and fine lines and wrinkles.”
How to use vitamin C in hot countries
We’ve found that it’s safe to continue using vitamin C when on vacation in warmer climes. As for the precautions you need to take, it all comes down to being extra diligent about applying SPF—which you hopefully always do anyway. “You can basically continue your active skincare routine when on vacation, you just need to make sure you apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily and reapply every 2-4 hours or after swimming or heavy sweating,” explains Dr. Granite. So, as you prepare for a sunny vacation, be sure to pack one of the best face sunscreens in your makeup bag if you haven’t already.
How much vitamin C should you consume on vacation?
Many mistakes with vitamin C revolve around the concentration and how it’s used in your routine. Generally speaking, though, if your skin tolerates your current vitamin C well, you shouldn’t have a problem continuing to use the same product as usual. “You only need to adjust your application if you have sensitive skin,” notes Dr. Ashley. “In general, you can continue your skincare routine as normal. Just pay attention to what your skin is telling you and always take a step back if necessary.”
Wondering where to start? Dr. Granite says 10% L-ascorbic acid is a good strength and form of vitamin C to incorporate into your holiday routine. Below are some of our favorite vitamin C serums on the market that you can shop now.
Our Vitamin C Favorites
SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF Antioxidant Serum
RRP: 165 €
This author’s serum of choice, the product from Skinceuticals, is certainly an investment, but it’s one that’s worth it for the ultimate vitamin C purchase. Containing 2% phloretin, 10% pure vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), and 0.5% ferulic acid, it’s also a perfect product to take on vacation.
The INKEY List 15% Vitamin C and EGF Serum
RRP: 15 €
If you’re looking for something more affordable, you can’t beat The Inkey List’s formula, which contains 15% vitamin C for the ultimate brightening and protecting experience.
Tronique Vitamin C Body Oil
RRP: 96 €
Don’t forget your body! This luxurious oil works wonders on the extremities to restore radiance, prevent fine lines and fight pigmentation. And all this in an ultra-lightweight texture? Sign us up.
