Vitamin C
L- Ascorbic acid polypeptide
L- Ascorbic acid polypeptide complex is a water stable, soluble form of Vitamin C, which is able to penetrate the outer layers of the skin.
Vitamin C is widely distributed in the plant and animal kingdom. Some of the best sources in nature are citrus fruits. The vitamin in nature is always conjugated with water soluble proteins or polypeptides and generally occurs in conjunction with related compounds, the bioflavonoids. The conjugated (polypeptide-bound) form of Vitamin C is approximately 10 times more effective than synthetic Vitamin C.
Studies have shown that L-Ascorbic Acid Polypeptide on oral administration gives rise to plasma levels for approximately 24 hours while synthetic ascorbic acid is almost totally excreted after 6 to 8 hours. Vitamin C plays an important part in many metabolic processes and must be ingested daily since it is not produced by the body. Vitamin C is necessary for the biosynthesis of hydroxyproline, a precursor of collagen, osteoid and dentin. It is required for the immune system and for wound healing and strengthens the capillary blood vessels thus preventing their fragility and subcutaneous bleeding.
Vitamin C is a strong antioxidant and reducing agent. On topical application and under suitable conditions, it can penetrate into the deeper layers of the epidermis where the melanocyte cells are located. These cells produce the protective brown pigment, melanin, on exposure to actinic (U.V.) light. L-Ascorbic acid, if present in sufficient concentration, reduces melanin to a colourless substance, inhibiting the formation of freckles, excessive darkening of the skin, "age spots" and possible, precancerous lesions such as melanomas. L-Ascorbic acid is one of the protective substances which are involved in the capturing or neutralising of free radicals formed upon exposure to U.V. radiation.
Although Vitamin C is widely used in dietary supplements. Its use in dermatologicals and cosmetics has been inhibited due to its lack of stability in the vehicles employed in these products. This important use can now be implemented on the basis of the availability of L-Ascorbic Acid Polypeptide, the stable form of ascorbic acid. Vitamin C+ has a pronounced toning and firming effect on the skin, making it suitable as an ingredient in cosmetics intended for use in the vicinity of the eyes (reduction of puffiness, etc.) as well as skin care products for aging and mature skin.
Due to its melanin reducing properties, Vitamin C+ can improve the appearance of freckled complexions, age spots and discoloured skin areas.
The protein and carbohydrate constituents of Vitamin C+ serve as excellent moisturising and counter - irritating agents which penetrate deeply into the epidermis.
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