Medik8 Vitamin C: The Science Behind Dermoi’s Brand of the Month

As Dermoi’s brand of the month, Medik8 shines with its innovative Vitamin C range. This antioxidant powerhouse brightens skin, boosts collagen, and defends against daily environmental stress. As a skincare enthusiast, I’m fascinated by how Medik8 transforms this delicate molecule into stable, high-performance formulations. With science-driven formulas like C-Tetra® and Super C Ferulic, Medik8 proves that Vitamin C can deliver radiance and resilience without compromising on skin comfort.

Vitamin C is a dermatologist-favorite ingredient with proven benefits for slowing early skin ageing, brightening skin, and improving overall skin health. As a potent antioxidant, it neutralises harmful free radicals from UV exposure, pollution, and metabolism that damage collagen, elastin, and DNA. By reducing oxidative stress, vitamin C helps prevent photoaging signs like wrinkles, pigmentation, and loss of firmness.

Clinical studies have shown that consistent topical application of vitamin C, especially in concentrations of 10–20% with a pH below 3.5, can improve fine lines, wrinkles, and skin texture. The most active and well-studied form is L-ascorbic acid, while gentler but more stable versions include tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate (great for sensitive skin), magnesium ascorbyl phosphate (water-based), and ascorbyl-6-palmitate (oil-based).

Studies show daily vitamin C use can improve fine lines, wrinkles, and texture within three months. Combined with vitamin E and ferulic acid, it enhances photoprotection, reduces redness, and shields against UV damage. It also acts as a collagen cofactor, stabilising fibres for firmer skin, and inhibits tyrosinase to fade dark spots.

At the heart of Medik8’s approach is the CSA Philosophy®, vitamin C plus sunscreen by day and Vitamin A by night. This simple, science-backed routine puts antioxidant protection front and centre.

Formulating Vitamin C is no easy task. In its pure form (L-ascorbic acid), it’s highly unstable, oxidising quickly, losing potency, and often causing irritation. Medik8 overcomes this with stabilised derivatives like tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate and ethylated L-ascorbic acid, which stay potent longer and penetrate deeply without discomfort. Water-free and pH-optimised formulas preserve activity from the first drop to the last.

Medik8 further enhances vitamin C with vitamin E and ferulic acid for amplified antioxidant power and pairs it with hydrators like squalane and hyaluronic acid. This ensures even high-strength formulas can be used daily, including on sensitive skin.

The result? A vitamin C range that brightens, boosts collagen, fades dark spots, and shields against environmental stress without compromising comfort.

Medik8 C-Tetra Luxe is the upgraded version of the brand’s bestselling C-Tetra Serum, formulated for those wanting maximum radiance and age-defying results. This luxurious, lipid-based serum delivers 14% stabilised vitamin C alongside vitamin E to shield skin from environmental damage. Its water-free system keeps vitamin C stable and potent from the first drop to the last.

Main Benefits:

• Revives radiance and brightens skin tone
• Reduces fine lines and improves elasticity
• Protects against environmental damage
• Provides long-lasting hydration and nourishment
• Minimises hyperpigmentation

Key Active Ingredients:

• 14% Stabilised Vitamin C (Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate): Potent yet low-irritation antioxidant that boosts collagen and brightens skin.
• Squalane: Skin-identical lipid that strengthens the barrier and deeply nourishes.
• Maracuja Oil: Rich in fatty acids and antioxidants to protect and condition skin.
• Optimised Red Ginseng: Promotes brightening and collagen production.
• Vitamin E: Antioxidant partner to vitamin C, enhancing stability and protection.

For those tackling advanced sun damage and visible ageing, Medik8 Super C Ferulic delivers a powerful boost of skin renewal. Its fast-absorbing, non-greasy texture makes it a perfect choice for the morning routine, defending skin from environmental stress while encouraging collagen production for a more lifted appearance. Clinical studies show brightening results in 7 days and continued improvements in firmness and wrinkle reduction within 4 weeks.

Main Benefits:

• Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
• Visibly brightens and boosts radiance
• Improves firmness and elasticity
• Minimises pigmentation and age spots
• Protects against environmental damage

Key Active Ingredients:

• 30% Ethylated L-Ascorbic Acid: Ultra-potent, stabilised vitamin C for maximum brightening, wrinkle reduction, and tone correction.
• Ferulic Acid: Plant-derived antioxidant that enhances vitamin C & E, increasing age-defying power and UV protection.
• Vitamin E: Shields skin from oxidative stress while supporting moisture balance.
• Turmeric Root Extract: Natural antioxidant that helps block pigment formation and reduces discoloration.

For those ready to take their vitamin C routine to the highest level, Medik8 C-Tetra Advanced delivers a potent 20% stabilised vitamin C boost with zero compromise on skin health. This lightweight gel-serum combines advanced antioxidants and cutting-edge phyto exosome technology to brighten, smooth, and protect skin in as little as 7 days.

Main Benefits:

• Brightens skin in just 7 days
• Clinically proven wrinkle reduction
• 0% barrier disruption for daily use
• Protects against environmental damage
• Smooths texture and evens tone
• Hydrates and primes skin for makeup

Key Active Ingredients:

• 20% Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate: High-strength, stabilised vitamin C for dramatic brightening and collagen support.
• Phyto Exosomes (Green Tea Leaf): Plant-derived vesicles that deliver bioactives deep into skin for resilience and anti-ageing.
• Acetyl Zingerone: Powerful antioxidant that neutralises free radicals and enhances vitamin C performance.
• Multi-Weight Hyaluronic Acid: Deep hydration for plump, smooth skin.
• N-Acetyl Glucosamine: An amino acid sugar that improves wrinkles and stimulates natural hyaluronic acid production.
• Squalane: Skin-identical hydrator to lock in moisture.
• Vitamin E: Antioxidant support for radiance.

As Dermoi’s brand of the month, Medik8’s vitamin C range proves that science-led skincare can deliver visible results without compromising comfort. From stabilised formulations to synergistic antioxidant blends, every product is designed for potency, protection, and skin health. Whether you’re new to vitamin C or ready for high-strength formulas, Medik8 offers a solution that brightens, firms, and defends, making it a worthy choice for anyone serious about long-term skin vitality.

Nathan N, Patel P. Why Is Topical Vitamin C Important for Skin health? - Harvard Health [Internet]. Harvard Health. Harvard Health; 2021. Available from: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/why-is-topical-vitamin-c-important-for-skin-health-202111102635 

Firas Al-Niaimi, Yi N. Topical Vitamin C and the Skin: Mechanisms of Action and Clinical Applications. The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology [Internet]. 2017 Jul;10(7):14. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5605218/