Are you taking vitamin C supplements to boost your immune system or to improve your skin’s appearance? While it’s true that vitamin C offers numerous health benefits, taking the recommended dosage can actually trigger purging.
If you’re not familiar with this skincare term, purging is when your skin experiences acne breakouts, dryness, or flakiness after using a new product or ingredient. In this article, we’ll discuss the possible reasons why vitamin C causes purging and how you can avoid or manage this reaction.
What is Vitamin C and Why is it Good for You?
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays an important role in collagen production, wound healing, and antioxidant protection. It’s commonly found in citrus fruits, tomatoes, leafy greens, and supplements. The recommended dietary intake of vitamin C for adults is 75-90 milligrams per day, although some people may require more based on their health condition or lifestyle.
What is Purging?
Purging is the body’s process of getting rid of impurities or toxins. It’s a common side effect when using skincare products that contain certain active ingredients, like Vitamin A derivatives, alpha-hydroxy acids, beta-hydroxy acids, and salicylic acid. Purging often causes breakouts and can last for four weeks to two months.
How Does Vitamin C Cause Purging?
Purging is not always a bad thing because it means that your skin is getting rid of impurities and adjusting to a new routine. However, if you experience purging for more than 4-6 weeks, it’s possible that vitamin C is not suitable for your skin type or that you’re using too much of it. Here are some reasons why vitamin C can cause purging:
- Accelerates cell turnover: Vitamin C is an exfoliating agent that speeds up the shedding of dead skin cells, which can reveal new and brighter skin. However, if your skin is not used to this fast process, it may react with acne, redness, or itching.
- Increases collagen synthesis: Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis, which is the building block of firm and elastic skin. However, when collagen production increases, it can cause temporary inflammation or irritation, especially if your skin is sensitive or prone to clogged pores.
- Counteracts other ingredients: Vitamin C is known to interact with certain skincare ingredients, such as retinol, AHA, and BHA, which can intensify their effects and cause purging. Therefore, if you’re already using these ingredients, start with a lower concentration of vitamin C or consult with a dermatologist before adding it to your routine.
How to Avoid or Manage Purging from Vitamin C?
Before you add vitamin C to your skincare routine, it’s important to do a patch test on a small area of your skin to see how it reacts. If you experience any signs of irritation or purging, stop using vitamin C for a few days and try again later with a lower dosage or frequency. Here are some tips to avoid or manage purging from vitamin C:
- Start low and slow: Begin with a low percentage of vitamin C, such as 5% or less, and increase it gradually over time. This will allow your skin to adjust to the new ingredient without overwhelming it.
- Use a balanced formula: Look for vitamin C products that contain other soothing and hydrating ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, or aloe vera. This will help prevent dryness and redness, which can worsen purging.
- Don’t mix vitamin C with incompatible ingredients: Avoid using vitamin C in combination with harsh or drying ingredients, such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or alcohol-based toners. Instead, use vitamin C in the morning and these other ingredients at night, with a few hours apart.
- Be patient and consistent: Purging from vitamin C usually lasts for a few weeks, so don’t give up too soon. However, if you experience severe or prolonged purging, consult with a dermatologist for personalized advice.
Other Benefits and Risks of Vitamin C Supplements
Vitamin C supplements are a popular way to boost immunity and prevent diseases, especially during cold and flu season. However, taking too much vitamin C (more than 2000 milligrams per day) can cause adverse effects, such as diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal pain. Moreover, vitamin C supplements may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, chemotherapy drugs, and statins, so it’s best to check with your doctor before taking them.
Natural Sources of Vitamin C and Dietary Tips
If you prefer to get your vitamin C from natural sources, here are some foods that are rich in this nutrient:
- Citrus fruits: oranges, lemons, grapefruits, limes
- Berries: strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries
- Kiwifruit, papaya, mango, pineapple
- Tomatoes, peppers, broccoli, cauliflower, kale, spinach
- Camu camu, acerola, goji berries
In addition, here are some dietary tips to maximize your vitamin C intake:
- Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables every day
- Include vitamin C-rich foods in every meal or snack
- Choose fresh and raw produce over canned or processed versions
- Don’t overcook or boil vitamin C-rich foods, as this can cause nutrient loss
- Avoid smoking or being exposed to secondhand smoke, as this can deplete your vitamin C levels.
What is the Recommended Dosage of Vitamin C?
The dosage of Vitamin C depends on one’s age, sex, and overall health. Generally, it is recommended that adult men and women consume 65-90 milligrams of Vitamin C per day. It is possible to consume up to 2000 milligrams of vitamin C per day, though doses above this can be toxic; most people should not need to exceed this amount.Using Vitamin C skincare products, it’s best to start with a lower concentration, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Conclusion
While vitamin C is a beneficial nutrient for your skin and overall health, it’s important to be aware of its potential side effects, such as purging. By following the tips and recommendations in this article, you can minimize the risk of purging and enjoy the benefits of vitamin C in a safe and effective way. Remember, everyone’s skin is unique, so what works for one person may not work for another. Listen to your skin and adjust your routine accordingly. If you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice from a dermatologist or other healthcare provider.
FAQ – Can vitamin c cause purging?
1. Can using Vitamin C skincare products cause skin purging?
A: While Vitamin C is generally considered a safe and beneficial ingredient for most people, it may cause skin purging in some individuals, particularly when first introducing it into their skincare routine. Purging occurs as the skin adjusts to the new product and accelerates the exfoliation process.
2. What are the signs of skin purging after using Vitamin C products?
A: Signs of skin purging after using Vitamin C products may include increased breakouts, redness, or irritation in areas where you typically experience acne or congestion. These symptoms usually subside within a few weeks as your skin adapts to the new product.
3. How can I minimize the risk of skin purging when introducing Vitamin C into my skincare routine?
A: To minimize the risk of skin purging, start by using a lower concentration of Vitamin C and gradually increase it over time. You can also introduce the product slowly by applying it every other day or a few times per week before transitioning to daily use.
4. Should I discontinue using Vitamin C if I experience skin purging?
A: If you experience purging after introducing Vitamin C, it’s generally recommended to continue using the product to allow your skin to adjust. However, if symptoms worsen or persist beyond 4-6 weeks, consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional for guidance on whether to discontinue use.
5. Can other skincare ingredients be combined with Vitamin C to reduce the likelihood of purging?
A: Combining Vitamin C with soothing and hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or niacinamide can help minimize the risk of purging. Additionally, using gentle exfoliants like lactic acid can support the skin renewal process. As always, patch test new products and consult with a skincare professional for personalized advice.