How is Vitamin C making your acne worse?

For as long as we can remember, vitamin C serums have been hailed as the magic elixirs for the skin. Vitamin C is known for making our skin smooth, hydrated, and bright, which is why it has found a permanent spot in our skincare vanity. But what if we told you that vitamin C is the real reason for your acne breakouts and should be completely avoided by sensitive and acne-prone skin?We’ve always counted vitamin C as one of the easiest ingredients to play with. But today, we’ll delve into three major reasons why vitamin C serum is bad for your skin and is not only breaking the barrier but also is the real cause of your acne.Irritating sensitive skinMany of us have heard sensitive-skin girls complain about using vitamin C, which has made their situation worse. This is because it is acidic in nature and creates a tingling sensation, which subsides for others but leads to redness and irritation. Sensitive skin can use a type of vitamin C, i.e., magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, which is a water-soluble vitamin and is considered less potent than the pure version.Worsens hyperpigmentationWhen exposed to air and light, vitamin C oxidises and turns yellow or brown in colour. It soon loses its efficacy and worsens hyperpigmentation. The changes of oxidation increase when vitamin C comes in contact with clear light, making the situation worse and making your acne scars visible all over again.Leads to dry skinThe acidic nature of vitamin C causes mild peeling when used in high concentrations. This leads to a cycle of dryness and peeling, which may not be noticeable in a day, but eventually, you will start witnessing the change. Vitamin C serums usually also have salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide, which also cause dryness and might not be the best choice for dry-skinned girlies. This often leads to breakouts, which makes everything worse.How to use it properly?If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, then do not let your facial skin touch vitamin C serums. But, if you’re using them, do it properly.Start with dry and clean skin: apply vitamin C serum and ensure your skin is clear and completely dry. You can dampen your skin a little with the serum, but make sure to dilute it, reducing its efficacy.Take the right amount: start with a pea-sized amount of vitamin C on the fingertips and simply dab it on your entire face and neck, but avoid the eye area.Massage it gently: After dabbing, create an even layer and gently massage it all over the face.Allow it to sink in: do not layer it right away with a moisturiser or face cream, but let your skin absorb it and get adjusted to it, and then move on to the next step.