Vitamin C for Wrinkle Reduction
Vitamin C matters for collagen synthesis but works better on skin than in a capsule.
Overview
Verdict
How It Works
Dosing & Protocol
Typical dose
- Recommended dose
- Dietary sufficiency; topical serum for skin
- Expected timeframe
- 12 weeks
Protocol
- form
- Topical L-ascorbic acid at pH below 3.5, ideally with vitamin E and ferulic acid; oral ascorbic acid has no wrinkle evidence in replete people
- duration
- 12-24 weeks minimum for any visible change
- co factor
- Evidence is insufficient for wrinkle reduction specifically. Topical vitamin C improves skin texture, elasticity and pigmentation in randomised and split-face trials, and it stimulates collagen synthesis in fibroblasts, so a rationale exists - but effects on established wrinkles are small and inconsistent across trials, and much smaller than those of topical retinoids, which have decades of randomised evidence for fine lines and photoageing. Oral vitamin C supplementation in people with adequate status has not been shown to change skin appearance at all.
- titration
- Topical up to 20%; higher concentrations increase irritation without improving penetration
- starting dose
- Not established for oral use. Topically, a 10% L-ascorbic acid serum each morning, increasing to 15-20%
Evidence
What the studies say
No studies are yet linked to both Vitamin C and Wrinkle Reduction.
Safety
Caveats
Topical delivery outperforms oral for skin-specific outcomes.
Less likely to help if
Medical Disclaimer
The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before starting any supplement regimen.
Individual results may vary. The statements on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products and information are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.