DIY Skin care: Vitamin C Serum

Published May 16, 2011

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Vitamin C is an amazing antioxidant and its been proven to stimulate collagen production, protect against UV damage and help minimize fine lines and scars. We found an inexpensive and potent homemade vitamin C serum recipe from Sophie Uliano, author of Gorgeously Green. Vitamin C serums can become costly but if you buy the recipe ingredients in bulk, you can yield a years worth of serum. Big thanks to our favorite gals at No More Dirty Looks on their post on vitamin C that lead us to this great recipe.

D.I.Y. Recipe Vitamin C Serum

Empty lip balm container or a small dark colored bottle
1 teaspoon L-asorbic acid (vitamin C) or camu camu powder - Purchase at any health food store
1 teaspoon of distilled water
1 teaspoon of vegetable glycerine - Purchase at any health food store

In a bowl, mix the L-asorbic acid or camu camu powder and water with a spoon. Beat and crush the powder with the back of the spoon to completely dissolve the crystals. Stir in the distilled water and vegetable glycerine. Pour your serum into an empty container and voilà, homemade serum! Store the container in a cool and dry place. Apply a thin layer of the serum to your face at night. If you like the results, bump it up to two times a day.

Beautylish Tip #1: If the serum begins to turn yellow, the product is oxidizing and the benefits of the vitamin C are diminishing. Toss it away and make yourself a new batch. Avoid buying tinted vitamin C powders (stick with colorless) because the color will make it difficult to check if the product is oxidizing.

Beautylish Tip #2: Only make enough serum to last you one week. Do not make a big batch because the product will oxidize and the potency will be become useless.

Beautylish Tip #3: With any new skincare product, test a small patch of skin before applying it all over your face. Some people may have negative reactions so if you feel any discomfort or uncomfortable tingling, immediately wash it off and discontinue use.