The world of skincare can be a double-edged sword; while it is essential on the journey to a healthy complexion, the sheer volume of options can sometimes leave you feeling downtrodden. When confusion strikes, the best course of action is to seek refuge in the gold standard ingredients of skincare – those science-backed ingredients proven to heal and renew. From retinol to niacinimide, each has its own purpose and place in the skincare hall of fame, but when it comes to glowing skin none fare as well as vitamin C.
With four billion views on TikTok and global Google searches for vitamin C soaring by 1000% since 2020 according to WGSN, the popularity of the hero ingredient shows no signs of waning since many of us (73% in fact) have upgraded our skincare game since the pandemic.
But while it's an ingredient that comes highly recommended by skincare experts the world over, it's also a volatile one. It all comes down to chemistry – being water-soluble, the vitamin becomes unstable in water formulas and often degrades once exposed to oxygen. Air, light and heat are all variables that can impact the efficacy of the solution, causing it to oxidate. If you've ever wondered why your old vitamin C has changed in colour, now you know. Considering its sensitivity, capturing quality vitamin C in products requires serious work. Luckily, The Body Shop has been hard at work, developing a new and improved iteration of its best-selling Vitamin C range.
Featuring improved formulae of its well-loved 2-in-1 exfoliating cleanser the Vitamin C Glow Cleansing Polish, £14, and the refreshing gel-based Vitamin C Glow-Boosting Moisturiser, £22, the brand's existing range hasn't just received a sprucing up but has been met with three new products, too.
The supercharged Vitamin C Glow Revealing Serum, £30, indulgent Vitamin C Overnight Glow Revealing Mask, £24, and the innovative Vitamin C Concealer, £17, are all new additions to the range and each boast a super-charged formula. Packed with concentrations of up to 10% and made with at least 90% ingredients of natural origin that are free from animal testing – they're also ethically-sourced in line with the brand's values since its inception in 1976 – the range is centred on one of nature’s richest sources of vitamin C: Amazonian camu camu berry extract.
Rich in antioxidants, this South American native ingredient protects skin from free radicals and other oxidising agents that take a toll on the complexion. In the mix, you will also find bakuchiol, a newer ingredient which has been in the spotlight in recent years for being a natural alternative to retinol. The combination of this herb will soon help improve the appearance of uneven pigmentation and skin texture and is the star ingredient the range's new Vitamin C Glow Revealing Serum, enriched with 10% vitamin C – the brand's highest concentration to date.
Want radiant, healthy-looking skin? Arm yourself with these glow-givers pronto.
Shop: The Body Shop's Vitamin C Range
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A hybrid exfoliating cleanser which combines two key skincare steps into one, it helps to quickly dislodge dead skin cells thanks to the inclusion of gentle jojoba beads.
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If you love a lightweight, refreshing, gel-based daily cream – this is for you. Camu camu berry fruit extract and hyaluronic acid ensure it's a nourishing fort for the skin.
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This newbie is powered by the brand's highest concentration of vitamin C yet: 10%. It is clinically proven to help reduce the appearance of uneven pigmentation.
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For a moment of pure indulgence, try this. A clever cocktail of vitamin C, resurfacing lactic acid (AHA) and papaya enzyme will reveal fresh, radiant skin come morning.
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For that quick hit of brightness, the brand's vitamin C infused concealer is a clever hack. It corrects and conceals instantly, while improving the appearence of under eyes over time.