Vitamin C for Sensitive, Oily, Acne-Prone Skin

Vitamin C is a popular ingredient in skincare due to its ability to stimulate collagen synthesis, act as an antioxidant, and provide a whitening effect.

There are two main types of Vitamin C commonly used in cosmetics:

• L-Ascorbic Acid (LAA): This is the most potent form that skin can utilize directly, leading to faster results. However, it is unstable in water and requires a low pH (around 3.5-4) to be effective, which can be irritating for sensitive skin.
• Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (MAP): This form is more stable, water-soluble, and works at a higher, less acidic pH (around 6.5-7.5), making it more suitable for sensitive skin. Its efficacy for collagen synthesis and whitening is generally lower than LAA but can still provide good results with consistent use.

Regarding the Skinceutical C E Ferulic formula, which contains L-Ascorbic Acid, Vitamin E, and Ferulic Acid, it is designed to stabilize the potent LAA. While it is a water-based formula and includes ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid for hydration, the low pH required for LAA efficacy makes it potentially irritating for sensitive skin. Additionally, based on formulation principles, this type of formula might not be ideal for oily skin.

For individuals with sensitive, oily, and acne-prone skin, especially those sensitive to fragrance and preservatives, using a formula based on L-Ascorbic Acid at a low pH might cause irritation or exacerbate skin issues. Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (MAP) is often a better choice for sensitive skin due to its higher, less acidic pH range.

If you are looking to create a DIY Vitamin C serum for sensitive skin, consider using Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (MAP) with a gentle base like Hyaluronic Acid Gel Base, ensuring the final pH is in the suitable range for MAP (pH 7-9) to minimize irritation.