Vitamin C serums are often touted for their skin benefits, but can they provide added sun protection? According to dermatologists, while vitamin C may enhance the effects of sunscreen, it is not a substitute for it.
How Sunscreen and Vitamin C Work Differently
Sunscreen primarily blocks UVB rays that cause sunburn and contribute to skin cancer, as well as UVA rays that lead to aging. Vitamin C, however, does not block these rays. Instead, it acts as an antioxidant, neutralizing free radicals generated by UV exposure and pollution, which can damage collagen and skin firmness.
“Antioxidants such as vitamin C have become a hot topic,” says Rosalind Simpson, professor of dermatology at the University of Nottingham. “People are interested in whether they can improve skin appearance by neutralising free radicals created by UV exposure and pollution.”
Evidence from a 1996 Study
A 1996 study examined the effectiveness of antioxidants, including vitamins C and E, with and without sunscreen, in protecting against UV-induced skin damage. It found that vitamin C appeared to enhance protection against UVA-induced skin damage, but only when used alongside sunscreen. The researchers concluded that antioxidants may provide additional protection when combined with established sun-protection products.
Expert Recommendations
“Nothing is a substitute for a good quality, broad-spectrum sunscreen with UVA and UVB protection and sensible habits when in the sunshine,” Simpson emphasizes. This includes wearing sunscreen, reapplying it regularly, and limiting direct sun exposure during peak hours.
