6 Ways a Vitamin C Deficiency Affects the Skin

Vitamin C deficiency is a common condition affecting nearly 90% of Filipinos. It can lead to poor immune systems, fatigue, and weak bones. Did you know it can also manifest as several skin problems, which may silently and gradually worsen if ignored? Cue the horror music.

The good news is these side effects should disappear once you up your vitamin C levels. But before your skin health bears the brunt of it all, here are some signs to watch out for. Make sure to consult a doctor if you feel like you're experiencing any vitamin deficiencies.

Keratosis pilaris, or chicken skin, is typically considered a genetic disorder. However, various factors, including a vitamin C deficiency, can trigger the appearance and severity of these tiny, rough lumps. In such cases, it disrupts the skin’s keratin production and exfoliation process, causing a protein buildup that blocks the pores and shows up as acne-like bumps.

Moreover, researchers have also identified perifollicular hemorrhage as one of the most common vitamin C deficiency symptoms. When your body lacks this essential nutrient, the blood vessels under the skin become more fragile and prone to bursting. Consequently, you may notice bright red spots around the hair follicles, making your “chicken skin” look even more pronounced. 

It’s no secret that vitamin C or ascorbic acid is an antioxidant powerhouse. It's a natural defender against inflammation and the like. A vitamin C deficiency compromises your skin’s barrier. Everyday irritants, from harsh weather to the ingredients in your skincare products, can set off heightened reactions like stinging, burning, and redness.

While increasing your vitamin C intake should be your top priority in addressing this issue, you can keep that outer barrier intact with proper precaution. For one, approach your skincare routine with extra care and attention. Stick with gentle products specifically designed for sensitive skin and avoid excessive scrubbing. Last but not least, keep your shower temp in check and cool it down with lukewarm baths.

If you notice that your acne scars and blemishes take their sweet time to heal, a vitamin C deficiency might be the culprit. Ascorbic acid is a key player in collagen synthesis – the protein responsible for the skin renewal cycle. Without adequate vitamin C, your collagen supply takes a hit, slowing down the skin healing process.

In serious cases, a deficiency of vitamin C can even progress into scurvy. It’s relatively rare in modern times, but according to the Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine, suboptimal vitamin C intake can cause open sores to appear on your skin and gums. If this happens, reach out to a doctor ASAP.

Speaking of collagen production, a deficit in vitamin C can age your skin much sooner than expected. Slowly but surely, it slowly loses its elasticity and begins to form fine lines. What’s more, external aggressors such as UV rays and free radicals from pollution are more likely to leave their marks on your complexion. As multiple studies have shown, one of the primary functions of vitamin C is to protect the skin against cellular damage and photoaging.

Woke up with mysterious, unexplained bruises? Contrary to folklore, these purplish blotches are not the bitemarks of mischievous ghosts. Instead, a 2017 study reveals that easy bruising is an early symptom of vitamin C deficiency.

Vitamin C is crucial in promoting blood vessel growth and tissue repair. When you have a shortage of ascorbic acid in the body, these vessels can break even with the slightest pressure.

Healthy skin has high concentrations of vitamin C in the epidermis, which works to maintain an ideal moisture level. Plus, it helps shield the skin from oxidative damage that contributes to hyperpigmentation. So uneven skin tone, sunspots, and flaky skin can be your body’s way of telling you it needs a shot of vitamin C.

Of course, other triggers, like stress and sleep deprivation, can make your skin parched and dull. Nevertheless, you can rely on POND'S Bright Miracle Ultimate Clarity Day Serum to revitalize your complexion.

After applying the serum, lock all the hydration with a layer of POND'S Bright Miracle Day Cream. It’s combats dullness by fading dark spots and makes skin clearer from seven days of use.

Consult a healthcare professional if you have more than one of these signs. They’ll be able to help create a well-balanced diet plan for you and address any potential side effects of vitamin C deficiency. In the meantime, take this as your reminder to eat more fruits and veggies – for your skin’s sake at the very least.