Interaction of vitamins C and E as better cosmeceuticals

Author: Burke, KarenE

Source: Dermatologic Therapy, Volume 20, Number 5, September 2007 , pp. 314-321(8)

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Abstract:

Although many cosmeceutical formulations contain vitamin C and/or vitamin E, very few are actually effective in topical application. First because there is only a low concentration, second because the stability is compromised as soon as the product is opened and exposed to air and light, and third because the form of the molecule (an ester or a mixture of isomers) is not absorbed or metabolized effectively by the skin.

However, when a stable formulation delivers a high concentration of the nonesterified, optimal isomer of the antioxidant, vitamins C and E do indeed inhibit the acute ultraviolet (UV) damage of erythema, sunburn, and tanning as well as chronic UV photoaging and skin cancer. Both are highly effective depigmenting agents. Topical vitamin C also increases collagen synthesis in both young and old fibroblasts. Because vitamin C regenerates oxidized vitamin E, the combination in a cosmeceutical formulation is synergistic - particularly in UV protection.

Keywords: topical antioxidants; UV protection; vitamin C; vitamin E

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1529-8019.2007.00145.x

Publication date: 2007-09-01