
When Vitamin C Enters the Chat
By Nat Habit
Day of Synthetic Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid)
Keratinocyte (skin cell, alert):
“Ah, pure L-ascorbic acid. Sharp, acidic, highly potent.” “I’m instantly stimulated—collagen genes switching on, antioxidant defenses rising.” “But wow… the pH here is low. My barrier’s not too happy about this acidity.”
Langerhans Cell (immune sensor):
“This is a strong molecule. Effective, yes—but if the formulation lacks balance, we risk micro-inflammation.” “Stinging, redness, even sensitivity flare-ups if used too often.”
Fibroblast (collagen factory):
“I love the signal! Collagen synthesis incoming. But if irritation creeps in, I shift gears into repair mode—collagen gets delayed.”
Microbiome (barely coping):
“This acidic environment isn’t ideal. Some of us can't thrive here. The skin's pH might drop too much—causing imbalance.”
Melanocyte (pigment cell):
“Great! Vitamin C blocks excess melanin formation—so dark spots lighten. But irritation might send mixed signals. Could go either way.”
Skin’s Summary:
“Synthetic Vitamin C delivers results, fast. But without a soothing support system, it walks a fine line between brilliance and burn.”
Day of Natural Vitamin C (Amla, Kakadu Plum, Rosehip)

Corneocyte (barrier cell, smiling):
“Mmm. This one came with buffers—plant lipids, bioflavonoids, and antioxidant companions.” “Feels gentle, doesn’t sting. Hydration intact!”
Keratinocyte (processing calmly):
“Natural Vitamin C arrives wrapped in plant matrices—slower to absorb, but more stable and less irritating.” “I’m still boosting antioxidant enzymes, just without the acid shock.”
Fibroblast (calmly working):
“Ah, a steady signal to make collagen. No rush, no inflammation. I can stay in building mode without switching to damage control.”
Microbiome (thriving):
“Flavonoids and plant sugars? We love this stuff. We’ll protect the barrier while the Vitamin C works.”
Melanocyte (relieved):
“Minimal stress = minimal melanin overproduction. This is a clear path to even tone without rebound pigmentation.”
Skin’s Summary:
“Natural Vitamin C isn’t flashy, but it’s steady and safe. It heals, brightens, and builds—without shouting.”
Skin’s Honest Truth:
“Fast is fine. But peace is priceless. Whether synthetic or natural, give me Vitamin C with balance—buffer me, hydrate me, don’t overwhelm me.”
Learn more