What is the difference between Pure Vitamin C and its derivatives?

Vitamin C is now an essential ingredient in cosmetics, prized for its brightening and protective power. But the diversity of vitamin C forms available – between pure vitamin C and its derivatives – can make choosing the right one complex. In this article, we guide you to better understand these differences and help you select the one that best meets your skin's needs.

What is Vitamin C and why is it so effective in cosmetics?
Vitamin C, or L-ascorbic acid, is a powerful antioxidant, capable of neutralizing free radicals, unstable molecules generated by UV exposure, pollution, and even stress. In cosmetics, it not only protects the skin from environmental aggressors, but it is also recognized for stimulating collagen synthesis, which maintains skin firmness. In addition to these effects, vitamin C helps lighten spots and even out skin tone by inhibiting tyrosinase, a key enzyme in melanin production.

Pure Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid):
In its purest form, vitamin C, or L-ascorbic acid, is extremely effective in boosting radiance and fighting pigment spots. Its rapid absorption allows it to act directly in skin cells to stimulate collagen production and curb the appearance of spots. However, its power is a double-edged sword: pure vitamin C is unstable and can degrade quickly on contact with light or oxygen. This instability can reduce its effectiveness over time, and its high concentration can also irritate sensitive skin.

For optimal effectiveness, serums containing pure vitamin C are often packaged in opaque or airtight bottles to minimize the risk of oxidation. At Seasonly, we have chosen more stable derivatives to offer lasting effectiveness, even on the most sensitive skin.

Vitamin C Derivatives:
Unlike L-ascorbic acid, vitamin C derivatives like magnesium ascorbyl phosphate (MAP) and sodium ascorbate are more stable and penetrate the skin more gently, making them particularly suitable for sensitive skin. These transformed forms of vitamin C have a neutral pH, which reduces the risk of irritation, while retaining antioxidant and brightening properties.

Focus on MAP
Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate (MAP) is one of the most popular derivatives, appreciated for its stability and gentleness. It is an effective antioxidant, capable of gradually lightening spots and protecting the skin from external aggressions. Although less powerful than pure vitamin C, MAP offers prolonged action ideal for lasting radiance.

Sodium Ascorbate
This derivative, present in our C+Activ Serum, is also recognized for its stability and its beneficial effects on skin radiance. Sodium ascorbate is a wise choice for skin prone to redness and irritation, as it provides the benefits of vitamin C gently.

Choosing the Right Form of Vitamin C for your Skin Type
The choice between pure vitamin C and its derivatives depends on skin type and individual goals. For an immediate and intense effect, L-ascorbic acid is often preferred, although it is better suited for skin accustomed to antioxidant care. For more sensitive skin or skin prone to redness, derivatives like MAP or sodium ascorbate offer a safe, effective, and well-tolerated alternative.

Our C+Activ Serum: Vitamin C for all skin types
At Seasonly, we formulated C+Activ Serum with a balanced concentration of sodium ascorbate to offer progressive and lasting radiance, without irritation. This serum brightens the complexion, reduces pigment spots, and offers antioxidant protection. It is suitable for all skin types, even the most sensitive, for a radiant and even complexion day after day.

How to integrate C+Activ Serum into your Routine?
To maximize the effects of vitamin C, apply your C+Activ Serum every morning to clean skin, before your moisturizer and sunscreen. This serum will act as a protective barrier against external aggressions while brightening and evening out your complexion.

By incorporating vitamin C in serum form every day, you will gradually achieve visibly brighter skin, with a noticeable reduction in spots and an even, healthy-looking complexion.