Vitamin C is an essential supplement for the normal functioning of the human body. In skincare, vitamin C is popular for its ability to brighten skin and promote collagen production. As one of the most powerful antioxidants in the skin, vitamin C has been shown to protect against photoaging and to have an anti-aging effect by increasing collagen synthesis. Typically, vitamin C is applied topically to the skin in the form of serums or moisturizers.

When applied to the scalp, it can have similar benefits. “Vitamin C works as an antioxidant to help neutralize free radical damage which can help to maintain scalp health,” Garshick explains. Camp agrees, adding that vitamin C neutralizes free oxygen radicals that develop during the day as a result of normal metabolism and UV exposure. “Free oxygen radicals are damaging to cellular structures like DNA, lipids, and proteins,” Camp explains. Vitamin C can also help boost collagen production in the scalp and hair, which Garshick says can in turn help to strengthen and promote hair health.

Neutralizes free radical damage:

Vitamin C works as an antioxidant to help neutralize free radical damage, which, according to Garshick, can help in maintaining scalp health. These antioxidant properties of vitamin C are beneficial topically and when orally ingested.

Strengthens the hair:

Vitamin C is a known collagen booster and collagen is a key component of strong hair. “Vitamin C can help to boost collagen production which can also help to strengthen and promote hair health.

Boosts shine:

Vitamin C can also work to brighten and improve the overall shine of the hair, shares Garshick. Vitamin C also contributes to a healthy scalp environment, which can influence the appearance of the hair overall.

Prevent hair loss:

Vitamin C may interact with DHT, a hormone that contributes to hair loss, says Camp. “DHT causes miniaturization and shrinkage of the hair follicle. Vitamin C reduces the formation of DHT.” Research has shown vitamin C’s ability to repress DHT, meaning it may help to prevent hair loss.

Help promote new hair growth:

Garshick shares that “by boosting collagen, vitamin C may help to promote hair regrowth.” Camp adds that in reducing the formation of DHT, vitamin C allows for improved hair growth.