Drink your OJ for healthy skin!

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Skincare companies are always looking for the newest and most effective ingredients to help your skin look its best. One of the most popular ingredients is Vitamin C. So what makes this antioxidant so good for you?

Vitamin C helps by reducing the damage caused by free radicals, a harmful byproduct of sunlight, smoke, and pollution. Free radicals gobble up collagen and elastin, the fibers that support skin structure, causing wrinkles and other signs of aging. When vitamins are combined in a lotion, they can be highly protective against sun damage, according to American Academy of Dermatology.

This doesn't mean you can double up on vitamins or lather on lotion and then bake safely in the sun. The link between tanning and skin cancer is indisputable and dangerous. (Always wear a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 25 and limit your sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.) But you may be able to help your skin stay healthier and supple by making sure you get enough of the antioxidant vitamin C.

To make sure your diet includes plenty of vitamin C, eat citrus fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C such as bell peppers, broccoli, cauliflower, and leafy greens. These foods can replace the loss of vitamin C through the skin. You can also take vitamin C supplements, from 500 to 1,000 milligrams per day, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

You can also use a topical vitamin C cream to encourage collagen production, just as your body does naturally when you are young. The trick here is to use a formulation containing the L-ascorbic acid form of vitamin C, the only one that can penetrate skin layers and do the job.

If you are interested in trying Vitamin C infused skincare, these are great options...

  1. Murad has an entire line devoted to Vitamin C called Essential-C. Try the Essential - C Eye Cream SPF 15. Protect your eyes from aging UV rays while smoothing the appearance of lines and increasing elasticity!
  2. Obagi offers the C Rx and Professional-C Serum lines that will satisfy any Vitamin C enthusiast's need. Try the Obagi Profession-C Serum 15% to lighten and brighten the skin while diminishing fine lines and wrinkles.
  3. Dr. Dennis Gross MD Skincare has a wonderful treat for your complexion. Hydra-Pure Anti-Aging Vitamin C Serum has a velvety texture that melts into your skin and it boasts 3 forms of Vitamin C to ensure lipid and water soluble penetration for your skin.