Vitamin C in summer – is it appropriate?

With the arrival of summer, many of you ask us whether you should stop using vitamin C in your skincare routine for fear of darkened pores, dark spots or irritation. However, the reality is quite different. That’s why, in this blog post, we’re debunking myths about vitamin C in summer and explaining why it’s one of the skincare ingredients most recommended by dermatologists.

Vitamin C: what it is and what its benefits are

Vitamin C is a skincare ingredient known for being a powerful antioxidant that protects the skin against oxidative damage caused by external factors, such as pollution or solar radiation.

But, , what can vitamin C actually do for your skin?

• It brightens the skin and prevents a dull, lacklustre appearance
• Even out skin tone
• Improve the appearance of dark spots
• Promote collagen synthesis
• Protect against oxidative stress

This means that vitamin C is not only an antioxidant, but also a depigmenting and anti-ageing active ingredient.

And it is precisely these properties that make vitamin C our key ally during the summer months.

Can you use vitamin C in summer? Myths and facts

The answer is yes: you can take vitamin C in summer. In fact, its antioxidant power is particularly important during the summer. That’s why Farmaciasdirect is here to tell you the whole truth about vitamin C:

“Vitamin C causes dark spots if you’re out in the sun”

False. Vitamin C does not cause dark spots on the skin or promote hyperpigmentation. Quite the opposite: Vitamin C is an active ingredient that evens out skin tone and lightens dark spots.

“Vitamin C darkens pores in summer”

True, but with some caveats. Vitamin C is an ingredient that oxidises on the skin. If you don’t cleanse your skin properly every day, you may well notice your pores looking darker, but this can be resolved by cleansing your skin correctly every day.

"Vitamin C boosts protection against sun damage"

True. Although it is no substitute for sun cream, its antioxidant action neutralises the free radicals generated by UV radiation, making it an excellent active ingredient to complement daily sun protection.

"Vitamin C irritates the skin in summer"

It depends. It isnot the summer itself that causes irritation, but factors such as the concentration used, skin sensitivity, lack of hydration or failure to cleanse the skin properly every day. These factors disrupt our skin barrier. Choosing well-tolerated formulas and applying them correctly usually minimises this risk.

“If I have sensitive skin, I can’t use vitamin C”

False. Many people with sensitive skin (especially those with ‘trained’ skin—that is, skin that has adapted well to and tolerates their skincare routine) can benefit from vitamin C. The key is to choose suitable formulations and introduce the product gradually into your routine; and, of course, never introduce or apply it if your skin is experiencing a flare-up.

"Vitamin C helps achieve a more radiant complexion"

True. It’s one of the best-known benefits and the reason it’s so popular; using it helps improve a dull complexion and gives the skin a more even, radiant and well-rested appearance.

"Vitamin C enlarges the pores"

False. In fact, it improves the skin’s overall texture and quality, making pores ‘less visible’.

"Facial cleansing affects the effectiveness of Vitamin C"

True. Applying the active ingredient to clean skin will optimise its absorption and effectiveness. This is even more important in summer, when we need to remove traces of sun cream, sweat and pollution from our skin.

It’s definitely a good idea to take vitamin C in summer

Vitamin C and summer go hand in hand. Far from being an active ingredient that should be avoided during this time of year, it can become the undisputed star of our skincare routine, helping to maintain radiant, even-toned and protected skin. One of Farmaciasdirect’s favourite choices for this summer is Endocare Radiance Vitamin C20 Serum.

Endocare Radiance Vitamin C20 Serum

This serum is one of the most highly recommended options for incorporating all the benefits of vitamin C into your daily skincare routine, always accompanied, of course, by proper sun protection.

It combines the power of pure vitamin C with stabilised vitamin C nanovesicles, delivering intense antioxidant power. This, combined with the formula’s ability to stimulate collagen synthesis and another firming active ingredient, creates a lifting effect on the skin.

This serum is non-comedogenic, so it is suitable for acne-prone skin. Its texture is very light, making it a pleasure to apply.

Please note that this is a very potent formula which we particularly recommend for skin that is already accustomed to using vitamin C.

And remember, radiant skin in summer depends on the care you give it every day.