By providing pharmacological levels of L-ascorbic acid (pure vitamin C) that can be applied directly to the skin, the goal is to interfere with environmental oxidative damage including sunlight, smoke, and pollution. L-ascorbic acid provides the following key benefits to the skin:
- Protects against damage from solar radiation
- Stimulates collagen synthesis
- Prevents UV-induced immunosuppression
- It is anti-inflammatory
- Provides visible action on skin brightness, blemishes and evenness
The story of the pioneering research on this vitamin began by Skinceuticals' founding scientist, Dr. Sheldon Pinnel. Based on this scientist's research, Skinceuticals was the first to discover the exact formulation parameters required for optimal absorption of vitamin C and for its effectiveness on the skin. The optimal absorption and efficacy of a vitamin C product depends, according to this research, on three factors, known as the Duke Antioxidant Patent:
- The use of pure vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid)
- Formulated at acidic pH (below 3.5) and
- In concentration between 10% and 20%
Recent studies show that topical application of optimized antioxidant vitamin C combinations can provide up to eight-fold additional environmental protection, 96 percent reduction of sun-damaged cells, and prevent damage to UV-irradiated skin.
Phloretin CF is an antioxidant solution that is indicated in hyperpigmented skins (very frequent in the population) exactly for its composition and combines in a scientifically tested formula:
- 10% pure vitamin C
- 0.2% ferulic acid and
- 2% floretin
Ferulic acid, found in the seeds and leaves of most plants, especially in the bran of grasses such as wheat, rice and oats has a powerful antioxidant potential, protects from the aging effects of ultraviolet light, neutralizes free radicals, acts as a sunscreen by absorbing UV and has anti-inflammatory properties. Floretin is a plant antioxidant found in the pulp and peel of apples, as a useful antioxidant that is able to penetrate the skin and interact with other antioxidants to provide effective photoprotection.Floretin has strong antioxidant effects when tested against free radicals. Floretin also inhibits tyrosinase activity, prevents photoaging by inhibiting collagen degradation, and increases the penetration of other antioxidants into the skin.
It is the antioxidant that I use the most continuously, all year round including summer. I can't do without or imagine my skin routine without including an antioxidant solution. For my skin (since it is combination) I can use either the serum or the gel.
How to use Skinceuticals Phloretin CF?
- Apply once a day in the morning routine as a first step right after cleansing the skin (can be applied all year round, including during sun exposure)
- Choose between serum and gel presentation depending on skin type and preference. The serum is indicated for combination to dry skin and the gel for combination to oily skin.
- Place 4 to 5 drops of the serum in the palm of your hand and use your fingertips to apply to the face and neck. For the gel, apply 4 to 5 pumps directly to the skin on the face and neck.
- If any discomfort is felt (due to the presence of 10% pure vitamin C), applications should be spaced out until the skin adapts. Very sensitive skin, with rosacea and other pathologies should always seek medical advice before using a solution with a high percentage of vitamin C.
Enjoy protected and more even skin!