How Does Vitamin C Help Pigmented Acne Scars
The Al-Niami and Chiang study found that Vitamin C decreases melanin formation, thereby reducing pigmentation. Vitamin C is the primary replenisher of vitamin E and works synergistically with vitamin E in the protection against oxidative damage.
The study concluded by saying that the topical application of Vitamin C helps the skin with a variety of anti-aging, anti-pigmentation and sun-protective properties.
The Pullar, Carr, Vissers study goes into detail to explain how Vitamin C derivatives work to treat skin hyperpigmentation such as the hyperpigmentation that occurs from certain types of acne scarring, Vitamin C derivatives, including the magnesium phosophate ascorbyl derivative, have been shown to decrease melanin synthesis both in cultured melanocytes and in vivo.
The decrease in melanin synthesis has an ability to interfere with the action of tyrosinase, the rate-limiting enzyme in melanogenesis.
Agents that decrease melanogenesis are used to treat skin hyperpigmentation in conditions such as melisma or age spots.
In simple terms, Vitamin C can interfere with an enzyme called tyrosinase which is responsible for the production of melanin, a natural skin pigment.
This process is what allows Vitamin C to help brighten skin dark spots and hyperpigmentation spots caused by acne scarring.
Summary Of Experimental Wounds
The MRC investigators did not submit the experimental wounding outcome data to statistical hypothesis testingthey did calculate means on scar strengths on certain subgroups. The narrative account based on the eyeball method provided by the MRC investigators on the prevention of collagen-related pathologies is consistent with the WHO’s interpretation: a daily intake of 10 mg vitamin C is sufficient to prevent the appearance of scorbutic wounds, weak scar strength, and histological abnormalities. The narrative account provided by the MRC investigators on the treatment of vitamin Cdepleted tissues is not consistent with the WHO’s interpretation. The MRC investigators reported that restoring scar strength and histological normality was not achieved with 5 mo of 10 mg or 20 mg vitamin C supplementation combined with 650-mg daily vitamin C doses for 12 d.
Prevention: Vitamin C Is A Powerful Antioxidant
Vitamin C is one of the most potent antioxidants, giving it the power to destroy free radicals by turning them into pure compounds. The skin is continuously exposed to environmental toxins and used as an exit point for systemic toxins, creating a need for round-the-clock protection from free radicals. Free radicals cause damage to the skin by breaking down proteins and fatty acids that make up the skin. They can alter normal skin pH and increase the production of sebum, leaving the skin prone to bacteria that causes breakouts. Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant that converts the harmful free radicals into harmless compounds before they can do any damage to the skin, helping to prevent future breakouts.
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Healing Time Of Incision
Usually, the wound would take around six weeks to heal however, this can vary depending on your age, genetics, and how you take care of the incision. In the first days and weeks after surgery, you will probably experience pain, bleeding, numbness, and itching. It would be best if you never scratched the wound because it could slow the healing process.
Modulation Of Epigenetic Pathways
In addition to the gene regulatory activities listed above, vitamin C has a role in epigenetic regulation of gene expression by functioning as a co-factor for the ten-eleven translocation family of enzymes, which catalyse the removal of methylated cytosine through its hydroxylation to 5-hydroxymethylcytosine . As well as being a DNA demethylation intermediate, it appears that 5 hmC is an epigenetic mark in its own right, with transcriptional regulatory activity . Aberrant epigenetic alterations are thought to have a role in cancer progression, and there is data to suggest that a loss of 5 hmC occurs during the early development and progression of melanoma . Interestingly, vitamin C treatment has been shown to increase 5 hmC content in melanoma cell lines, also causing a consequent alteration in the transcriptome and a decrease in malignant phenotype . Because TETs have a specific requirement for vitamin C to maintain enzyme activity , this provides a further mechanism by which the vitamin may affect gene expression and cell function. For example, Lin and co-workers showed that vitamin C protected against UV-induced apoptosis of an epidermal cell line via a TET-dependent mechanism, which involved increases in p21 and p16 gene expression .
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Vitamin E Oil May Be Good For Scars
Vitamin E oil contains antioxidants and may help to reduce surgical scars naturally and promote healthy healing.
One study showed that using vitamin E for scars twice a day can help wounds heal with minimal scarring. Applying vitamin E oil after surgery was a natural way to help scars heal and improve cosmetic results.
Although some studies have shown that you can use vitamin E to heal a scar faster, other studies have not been as conclusive.
A review on the benefits of using vitamin E oil to treat scars found that much could depend on the type and location of the scar involved.
Find out how to use vitamin E to improve your skinâs appearance and how taking vitamin E supplements can help your skin from the inside.
You can also use vitamin E oil for scars on legs by mixing a capsule of vitamin E oil with sweet almond oil. Apply twice a day by thoroughly massaging the remedy to your legs to help scars fade away. You could also add a few drops of rosehip oil for treating scars on legs.
Summary On Vitamin C Requirement For The Prevention And Treatment Of Collagen
The vitamin C requirement for preventing and treating collagen-related pathologies for 97.5% of the population was calculated following the methods adopted by the National Academy of Medicine . The recommended daily vitamin C intake to prevent weak scar strength for 97.5% of the population is 96 mg/d , which is rounded to 95 mg. The recommended daily vitamin C intake to treat pathological tissues could not be determined but must be larger than an average intake of 90-mg/d vitamin C intake for 6.5 mo .
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Microneedling With Vitamin C
Microneedling uses tiny needles to puncture the upper upper layer of skin and cause injury. The skin responds to this damage by producing collagen to heal the skin, which reduces the appearance of scars.
One study tested the effects of combining topical vitamin C with microneedling on acne scars and saw firmer and smoother skin, as well as an improvement in hyperpigmentation.
Can Topical Vitamin C Treat Acne Scars
Acne scars take two forms: atrophic and hypertrophic.
Atrophic scars are often deep-set, and result from the body being unable to regenerate skin after sustaining significant skin damage.
Hypertrophic scars are thick scars , that result from the overproduction of collagen after an injury to the skin in this case, due to acne.
While little research has been done on vitamin Cs efficacy in treating acne scars, topical vitamin C has been found to improve the complexion when treating hyperpigmentation and melasma. Vitamin Cs ability to reduce hyperpigmentation suggests it has the potential to reduce the appearance of, if not completely treat, acne scars.
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Vitamin C For Acne Scars: Does It Work Benefits & Uses
Acne is a common skin condition that results in raised, red bumps on the skin. Its an inflammation of the skin, and when that inflammation gets too severe, it can damage the pores, resulting in scarring.
Some scars heal quickly while others can last for years. Its paramount to treat these scars correctly to regain the appearance you want, and while there are many ways to go about that, dont underestimate the power of Vitamin C.
The Best Essential Oils For Scars
You can also treat scars naturally by applying essential oils such as tea tree oil, lavender oil, or frankincense oil. Many of the best essential oils for scars help collagen synthesize properly in dermal healing and prevent infection.
In general, due to the high concentration of compounds, essential oils are good for healing scars when combined with a carrier oil.
For example, because vitamin E oil is good for scars, a drop or 2 of essential oils in a tablespoon of vitamin E oil can help to heal scars. Same with coconut oil.
At the end of the article, you will find out how to use essential oils to heal scars faster and naturally.
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The Ability To Scavenge Free Radicals And Dispose Of Toxic Oxidants
Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that can neutralise and remove oxidants, such as those found in environmental pollutants and after exposure to ultraviolet radiation. This activity appears to be of particular importance in the epidermis, where vitamin C is concentrated in the skin. However, vitamin C is only one player in the antioxidant arsenal that includes enzymatic defences as well as other non-enzymatic defences . Most intervention studies carried out to determine the capacity of antioxidants to prevent oxidative damage to skin have used a cocktail of these compounds . Vitamin C is particularly effective at reducing oxidative damage to the skin when it is used in conjunction with vitamin E . This is in accord with its known function as a regenerator of oxidised vitamin E, thereby effectively recycling this important lipid-soluble radical scavenger and limiting oxidative damage to cell membrane structures .
The central role for vitamin C and other antioxidants pertinent to the skin. The interdependence of vitamins E and C, and glutathione, in the scavenging of free radicals and regeneration of the reduced antioxidants, is shown. Vitamin E is in the lipid fraction of the cell, whereas vitamin C and glutathione are water-soluble and present in the cytosol.
Functions In Healthy Skin
Vitamin C limits the damage induced by ultraviolet light exposure. Vitamin C is not a âsunscreenâ because it does not absorb light in the UVA or UVB spectrum. Rather, the antioxidant activity of vitamin C protects against UV-induced damage caused by free radicals. Vitamin C transport proteins are increased in keratinocytes in response to UV light, suggesting an increased need for vitamin C uptake for adequate protection .
UV light decreases vitamin C content of skin, an effect that is dependent on the intensity and duration of UV exposure . In cultured keratinocytes, the addition of vitamin C reduces UV-related DNA damage and lipid peroxidation, limits the release of pro-inflammatorycytokines, and protects against apoptosis. Vitamin C also modulates redox-sensitivecell signaling in cultured skin cells and consequently increases cell survival following UV exposure .
In two rodent studies, addition of ascorbic acid to the diet reduced the size and number of dermal neoplasms and skin tumors induced by chronic UV exposure . To date, no other studies with UV exposure and oral ascorbic acid supplementation in animal models have been published.
Wound healing
Vitamin C is included in oral therapies for pressure ulcers and burns, along with vitamin E, zinc, and other nutritive factors .
Dry skin
Other functions
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A Magic Ingredient Or Combination
InflammEnz, an herbal product, contains seven different nutrients and enzymes, including calcium and potassium. But there are four in particular that are suspected of boosting the healing process noted in Rohrich’s study:
- Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is required for the synthesis of collagen. It is also a highly effective antioxidant protecting cells from damage by free radicals. Studies have shown that the vitamin can help speed the healing process of wounds.
- Bromelain is an anti-inflammatory enzyme found in the stem of pineapple plants. It reduces muscle and tissue swelling especially following injuries or surgery.
- Rutin, a nutrient in plant foods, is believed to protect blood vessels, prevent bruising, and intensify the effect of vitamin C in the body.
- Grape seed extract, a popular health supplement that evidence shows may build new blood vessels and help vitamin C enter cells, strengthening cell membranes and prevent scarring in tissue.
“Obviously, more study is needed before we can routinely recommend this product to plastic surgeons to help their patients heal faster, but it certainly is promising,” Rohrich tells WebMD. “The next step is to separate each of these four ingredients out to better determine which one is really providing the benefit, or if there is an synergetic effect in which all four or some combination of them work together.”
Vitamin C And Free Radicals
Vitamin C plays a role in keeping our skin free from harmful free radicals which are a leading cause of acne.
Free radicals:
- Break down fatty acids and proteins that help maintain skins natural PH balance.
- Leave the skin vulnerable to bacteria which causes acne.
- The damage caused to the sebaceous glands means increased sebum production.
By destroying the free radicals, vitamin C helps our skin keep the natural PH balance. This is one reason to use a vitamin C serum for acne.
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Frankincense Essential Oil For Scar Treatment
Some of the best scar cream natural remedies should include frankincense essential oil as it helps prevent scars as wounds are healing.
Research has found that frankincense helps to heal scars faster because it prevents the type of collagen that forms scar tissue from developing. Frankincense essential oil also helps speed up the wound healing process.
Preventing Weak Scar Strength
The primary aim of the first set of statistical analyses was to investigate what type of history of vitamin C intakes was associated with the prevention of weak scar strength. The definition of the history of vitamin C intake was operationalized by taking average vitamin C intakes over increasing time windows prior to scar strength testing. Thus, the average vitamin C intakes were calculated for the 10 d prior to biopsy, the 30 d prior to biopsy, the 60 d prior to biopsy, all the way up to the average vitamin C intake during the entire study period . This methodology of assessing various aspects of the history of a vitamin C intake to assess for informativeness on scar strength is a standard approach for assessing histories of surrogate markers for clinically relevant endpoints .
As the length of the time window increased further, the strength of the association increased further . The average vitamin C intake calculated during the entire study period had the strongest association with scar strength the scar breaking strength increased by 2.7 Newtons per additional 10 mg average daily vitamin C intake .
Dot plot showing the postvitamin C saturation scar strengths by 3 vitamin C treatment arms. The 0-, 10-, and 70-mg-daily-vitamin-C arms had 6, 5, and 2 participants, respectively. Reported P values are the results of permutation tests. Vit C, vitamin C.
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Aloe Vera Gel For Scars
One of the best natural remedies for treating irritated and inflamed skin is aloe vera. There is also some evidence that applying aloe vera to your skin may reduce the appearance of scars naturally.
The journal Annals of Plastic Surgery reported that compounds in aloe vera have natural scar healing properties. Applying aloe vera gel helped improve the appearance of scar tissue and decrease scar tissue size.
Other studies have shown that aloe vera has a positive effect on collagen production that helps wounds heal with the least amount of scarring as possible.
To help increase the effectiveness of aloe vera, you can use aloe vera and vitamin E for scars. Mix 1 tablespoon of aloe vera with 2 or 3 capsules of vitamin E oil. Apply the home remedy to your scars 2-3 times a day until the scar has decreased in size.
Learn more about the amazing effect that aloe vera can have on your skin. You may also be interested in how to use aloe vera and coconut oil to maintain healthy-looking skin.
Does Vitamin C Serum Help With Acne
Yes, it does. Acne can be caused by many things, including hormones, stress, and diet. Another major cause of acne is bacteria that grows on the skin and causes breakouts.
Vitamin C increases cell turnover to help fight bacteria on the skin, which in turn help prevent acne. It also helps treat acne by reducing inflammation and redness, two major symptoms of acne breakouts.
Another reason why vitamin C serum is a good acne treatment is that it helps repair damaged tissue and prevent free radical damage caused by the sun or other sources.
So, whether you have a little or a lot, vitamin C serum can be an effective tool in your battle against acne. But just like some other skincare products, you have to be careful because it can be irritating if not used correctly.
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The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + Ha
Best for: hyperpigmentation
Alpha arbutin is helpful for brightening the skin and reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation. This formula has a high concentration of 2% alpha arbutin. It also has hyaluronic acid, which hydrates and helps support the delivery of the star ingredient. This product can be used in conjunction with other treatment products, like a vitamin C serum.
How to Use: Cleanse and pat dry your skin. Dispense the product into your fingers and gently massage into the skin. You may follow up with another complementary serum, like a vitamin C. Finish with a moisturizer. Use 1 to 2 times daily.
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