Vitamin C has become known as a "wonder worker." In addition to its role in collagen formation and other life-sustaining functions, vitamin C serves as a key immune system nutrient and a potent free-radical fighter.

This double-duty nutrient has been shown to prevent many illnesses, from everyday ailments such as the common cold to devastating diseases such as cancer.

Humans are one of the few animals that cannot produce vitamin C themselves and are totally reliant on their diets to obtain this vital nutrient.

Large concentrations of vitamin C can be found in fruits such as oranges, grapefruits, cherries, lemons, limes and strawberries. Many vegetables are also packed with vitamin C, these include tomatoes, broccoli, red and green bell peppers, raw lettuce and other leafy greens.

"A daily dose of 60 milligrams is needed to maintain or maximize the body's pool of vitamin C," said Dr He Xiaoyan from AmMed Cancer Resource Center. "Some people may require more vitamin C than the average healthy adult to prevent the disruption of important biochemical reactions. The elderly, alcohol consumers, diabetics and smokers, for example, tend to be low in vitamin C."

While most of us know that vitamin C is an important part of a healthy diet, we may not be aware of the importance of vitamin C to our skin. The skin benefits from ample vitamin C, obtained through the diet or a supplement, as well as applied topically.

"When applied to the skin, vitamin C stimulates cell renewal, collagen and elastin production and increases healthy circulation," said Jessica Hao, Clinique's education executive. "Because your skin is your first line of defense, vitamin C also boosts your skin's natural immune properties and is an essential part of the anti-oxidant brigade to protect skin against free radical assault from the sun, pollution and smoking."

Free radicals accelerate skin damage and the wrinkles associate with premature aging. Vitamin C neutralizes volatile reactions caused by free radicals that damage skin.

Another big plus for vitamin C: It is a critical component for the production of collagen, an essential skin protein. If collagen is not produced, your skin will sag and appear dull.

It is also an important ingredient used in whitening products because it can help brighten skin, reducing the discoloration of the skin that can occur from years of sun exposure.

Vitamin C is popularly adopted in skin care products by many cosmetics brands. Keep in mind that it is difficult for the skin to absorb vitamin C without the help of other chemical agents, so different brands use different technology to facilitate the absorption of vitamin C.

A vitamin C facial treatment is needed once in a while because the therapist usually infuses the most powerful formulation of vitamin C directly into the skin to restore skin texture, elasticity and firmness while fading pigmentation problems and diminishing fine lines and wrinkles.

Frank n Sense urban retreat on Xinhua Road offers a vitamin C facial which promotes healthy glowing skin, while whitening. Combining the super sonic wave machines with the healing touch of aromatherapy, the facial will be tailor-made for the individual's skin needs and concerns.

So, in addition to add a healthy dose of vitamin C to your diet, regular use of facial products that contain vitamin C and an effective vitamin C facial will enhance your skin's health and appearance.