Journal of Clinical & Experimental Dermatology Research
Open Access

Abstract

Vitamin C and Skin

Keiji Sugiura and Mariko Sugiura

Vitamin C (VC) is one of nine water-soluble vitamins. VC is known as ascorbic acid (AA), which is a reduced form of VC. AA plays some essential roles in the human body: (1) protecting skin against UV damage; (2) preventing hyperpigmentation of the skin; (3) improving skin inflammation and reducing photocarcinogenesis; (4) increasing collagen fiber; (5) reducing oxidative stress; and (6) immuno-modulating effects. AA deficiency affects collagen and vessels structure, wound healing and hemostasis, and scurvy. VC and AA are essential for life. We hope development of new medicines using VC or AA because of few adverse side effects of VC and AA.