10-20% Ascorbic acid, 1% Vitamin E, and 1% Ferulic acid in Hyaluronate gel
When skin is exposed to sunlight—and particularly to the high-energy ultraviolet spectrum it contains—many chemical changes take place within its cells and proteins. A major mechanism by which these changes take place is known as photo-oxidation, a kind of damage caused by sunlight-induced free radicals (a kind of reactive, damaging chemical).
Antioxidants are so-called “scavengers” of free radicals, and they can be applied to the skin to prevent and treat damage. The safest antioxidants are those found in nature.
L-Ascorbic acid
Vitamin C (or L-ascorbic acid) is a natural and potent antioxidant that can be used topically to treat and prevent changes associated with sun exposure and photo-ageing. It has also been used for the treatment of hyperpigmentation (e.g. melasma and “age” or “liver” spots) and scarring. We have written more about how antioxidants can help your skin, if you are interested.
Unfortunately, because vitamin C is such a good antioxidant, it oxidises very quickly and inactivates. As a result, stable derivatives of vitamin C have been synthesized that allow it to be manufactured into products and warehoused for long periods of time. These derivatives of vitamin C may be found in some cosmetic products marketed as being lipid soluble, or as having enhanced skin penetration. However, the stability of these derived forms comes at the cost of their decreased effectiveness as antioxidants.
Hyaluronic acid is a major components of the dermis (the inner layer of the skin) and it plays a large role in skin regeneration and hydration. It can absorb phenomenal amounts of moisture—1 gram of hyaluronate can hold up to 6 litres of water—and this makes it a potent skin hydrator. Ageing and sun exposure both decrease the amount of hyaluronate in the skin.
Why not read more about why we choose hyaluronate for our products?
Our BCP Vitamin C Serum is formulated in a healing, non-comedogenic gel base of hyaluronate, for its regenerative properties and because such bases are suitable for ANY skin type (e.g. acne prone, oily, dry, sensitive or rosacea affected). We incorporate additional natural antioxidants, vitamin E and ferulic acid (an antioxidant found in many foods), to both improve the stability of Vitamin C and enhance the product’s overall beneficial effect.
At Border Compounding Pharmacy, we do not keep pre-made BCP Vitamin C Serum on the shelf. We prepare each batch fresh, to maximise the antioxidant power of vitamin C. We recommend storage in the refrigerator to maximise and maintain its effectiveness.
Our BCP Vitamin C Serum is available to purchase through our online BCP Shop.
We can also customise your BCP Vitamin C Serum to specifically suit your skin type and requirements. If you would like more information, or wish to a discuss a suitable strength, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
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