Can Vitamin C Help to Fade Pigmentation?

Vitamin C is effective in lightening melanin. Products containing this ingredient are almost harmless to the body and have certain benefits, making them widely used in whitening products. Moreover, such ingredients do not need to be actively sought out as they can be found in various types of whitening products. Vitamin C can react with melanin in the skin and reduce it to a lighter-colored substance. Although it cannot eliminate melanin, vitamin C can lighten it, thus achieving a whitening effect. However, the functions of vitamin C do not stop there.

In the process of melanin formation, there is a series of oxidation reactions. "Dopa" is oxidized to form "dopaquinone"; "dopaquinone" is further oxidized to form "dopachrome"; and "dopachrome" accumulates to form melanin. Vitamin C can convert dopaquinone back to dopa, effectively reversing the melanin formation process. Therefore, vitamin C also has the function of inhibiting melanin formation.

Apart from its whitening effects, vitamin C also offers anti-aging, antioxidant properties, reduces sebum production, increases skin elasticity, helps clear acne, and enhances immunity. It is not only a great beauty aid but also a health booster, with numerous benefits when consumed regularly. Chili peppers, especially bell peppers, are rich sources of vitamin C. Additionally, celery contains abundant vitamin C, which can help prevent cancer and radiation damage. Carrots are also high in vitamin C, inhibiting melanin synthesis, preventing fat oxidation, and preventing the deposition of lipofuscin, resulting in fairer and more delicate skin. Tomatoes, which fall between vegetables and fruits, also contain relatively rich amounts of vitamin C. Many fresh vegetables and fruits retain more nutrients when consumed raw, such as tomatoes and carrots, though it is recommended to peel them before eating.

Among fruits, kiwi is the richest source of vitamin C.