We all know that collagen plays an important role in keeping skin looking supple, firm, and strong. But it also goes without saying that there are plenty of external factors that frequently test the limits of all-important collagen in our skin. After all, not only does collagen production decrease naturally after the age of 25, but ultraviolet rays from the sun create plenty of collagen-destroying oxidation as well, which can result in sagging, wrinkles, discoloration, and more.
This is an issue at all times of the year, of course—but it can be especially tricky to combat during summer months when the sun is at its all-time peak. However, there is one thing that dermatologists say can help fight some of the dreaded signs of aging due to collagen loss—especially during everyone’s favorite sun-filled summer months: and that’s the increased use of vitamin C.
“Although there is a misperception that vitamin C is photosensitive, in reality, this vitamin is a powerful antioxidant that helps neutralize free radicals generated by sun exposure,” explains Carlos Morales Raya, dermatologist and director of Clinica Dr. Morales Raya in Madrid. “This may decrease the risk of skin damage and photoaging. Additionally, vitamin C plays a crucial role in collagen synthesis, promoting firmer and more elastic skin.”
Cleansing with vitamin C
To that end, the dermatologist recommends using both a stabilized vitamin C serum every morning and doubling down on other, more intense treatments. He especially likes hydrafacials boosted with vitamin C products, like Dr. Murad’s Vita-C Glycolic Serum, which is stabilized with gold and contains skin-brightening tranexamic acid. “I recommend it for several reasons: First, it helps eliminate impurities, dead cells, and excess sebum, which is crucial as these elements can clog pores and increase the risk of acne breakouts in hot and humid summer conditions. In addition, clean and exfoliated skin improves absorption and effectiveness of sunscreen products and other topical treatments,” Raya explains. “Plus, a deep cleansing can prepare the skin for moderate sun exposure, reducing the possibility of hyperpigmentation and sun damage by ensuring the skin is in its healthiest and most receptive state. By including vitamin C in a facial treatment, the skin’s protection against oxidative stress induced by UV rays is improved, and so is the luminosity and uniformity of the skin tone.”
Summer skin care to boost collagen
Sound intriguing? Turns out there is more to know about vitamin C and its importance for protecting and repairing skin. Because while an extra dose of vitamin C can definitely help protect the skin from sun damage, clinical studies have also found that its power is amplified when sunscreen and other antioxidants like ferulic acid and vitamin E enter the mix. Together, these ingredients may help ease redness and protect the skin from long-term sun damage.
So, in addition to receiving specific treatments like a vitamin C-enhanced hydrafacial, Raya says we should all consider adding the following steps to our summer skincare routines:
- Increase the use of topical antioxidants such as serums containing vitamin C, E, and ferulic acid—especially before going on a sunny vacation: “These products ensure that skin is always adequately hydrated and that the skin barrier is strong.”
- At night, use products containing hyaluronic acid and peptides to help repair and “to keep the skin in its best condition.”
- Avoid excessive exfoliation “and pay attention to any signs of sun damage, spots, or irritation.”
- Perform gentle but effective cleansing to remove sunscreen and sweat residue.
- And, of course, apply sunscreen with SFP 50+ every two hours—especially after swimming or sweating. “I also advise wearing a wide-brimmed hat and protective clothing to minimize direct exposure to the sun,” Raya says.