How topical vitamins can improve your skin.
Skincare is as easy as ABC. That is, the magic ingredients associated with skincare are, simply, vitamins A, B and C.
At The Harley Clinic, we are passionate about not only helping you get great skin in our clinics, but also setting you up with an active at-home skincare routine that maintains the benefits of your treatments.
Not all skincare is created equal, however, and we highly recommend speaking with one of our clinicians who can help you identify what products you need in your routine and how to properly use them.
Here, we share our tips on why you need to consider vitamins as part of your at-home skincare regimen and some of the best products to help introduce these ingredients into your routine.
VITAMIN A
Vitamin A is something of a magic ingredient – it not only improves the appearance of your skin, but has been proven to help its health, too. Also commonly known as retinol, vitamin A stimulates the dermis, where collagen, elastin and blood vessels are found, so it reduces wrinkles and increases blood flow to the surface of the skin. It also increases collagen production, which in turn slows the signs of ageing.
“Those who experience acne and rosacea often see huge benefits in their skin condition when treating their skin with products containing vitamin A,” says The Harley Clinic’s dermal specialist Mignonne Malan.
“It is also credited with assisting the healing of the skin, including acne scars, and the reduction of pigmentation on the surface of the skin.
“We often include a vitamin A product in treatments, but it shouldn’t only be used on problem skin. Those who simply want a boost of hydration and to reduce the appearance of wrinkles will also see benefits in using vitamin A in their skincare routine.”
While vitamin A sounds like a must-have ingredient, it isn’t for everyone. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid it, and those who are exposed to the sun should use products containing vitamin A with caution while be extra cautious with sun protection. In fact, it’s generally recommended to apply vitamin A products at night only.
Vitamin A is often found in serums and creams, with some of our most popular products featuring this superpower. Our top product picks for a hit of vitamin A include:
- Dr Aspect Exfol A Plus Serum
- Cosmedix Refine Refinishing Treatment
- Cosmedix Elite Serum 24
VITAMIN B
Vitamin B is the skin’s booster and hydrator. It offers a more gentle touch than vitamin A, but still generates great results.
Suitable for all ages and skin conditions, vitamin B is everyone’s friend. It is water-soluble, which means it works wonderfully on problematic skin, helps improve skin tone and reduces redness. The B vitamin group is also credited with helping regulate the skin’s pigment production, preventing hyperpigmentation and age spots.
“Vitamin B is one for every age and skin type,” says Mignonne.
“It gives the skin a little bit of love and helps it look refreshed and renewed. We love when our clients use vitamin B, as they can see the benefits every time they look in the mirror – skin just looks fresher. And it can be used in conjunction with other products and vitamins without wreaking havoc or causing breakouts.”
So if sallow, sad-looking skin is your concern, we definitely recommend including a vitamin B product in your skincare routine. Our top picks include:
- Cosmedix Phytoclear Clarifying Moisturiser
- Dr Aspect Multi B Plus Serum
VITAMIN C
Brightening is the super power of vitamin C. If you suffer from dull skin, then it could be the answer to your prayers.
We all know the powers of vitamin C when it comes to boosting immunity, but many are unaware of the impact it can have on the appearance of the skin, especially when applied topically. It instantly begins working its magic on the skin’s surface.
“This is another one which is popular with all skin types and ages,” says Mignonne.
“Vitamin C’s powers don’t discriminate. Anyone who thinks they could benefit from more youthful plumpness, even skin tone or more radiance should add it to their skincare regimen.”
Vitamin C is loaded with antioxidants, which protect the skin from free radicals, so it helps fight ageing by tightening, firming and smoothing the skin. It is most commonly found in serums and can be layered with other serums, plus it is safe to apply day or night.
We recommend the following products containing vitamin C:
- Cosmedix Pure C Mixing Crystals
- Dr Aspect Active C Serum