Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) combination therapy as an anti-aging treatment – A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Ananya Chakraborty, M. Kiran, Padmini Devi, Seena ThomasAbstract
Introduction:
Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) is a potent water-soluble antioxidant. It neutralizes free radicals, inhibits lipid peroxidation, and regenerates Vitamin E. It stimulates collagen synthesis, inhibits collagen-degrading enzymes, protects elastin, and reduces hyperpigmentation by inhibiting melanogenesis. However, existing studies on Vitamin C-based anti-aging therapies show considerable variability, highlighting the need for a meta-analysis to clarify efficacy and guide clinical practice.
Materials and Methods:
This meta-analysis included randomized controlled trials published up to March 2025. The studies that compared Vitamin C delivered topically or via mesotherapy, iontophoresis, or microneedling were included. PubMed and Ovid were searched, and study selection, data extraction, and risk of bias (RoB) assessment were conducted independently by two reviewers. Outcomes included changes in melanin, hydration, elasticity, and erythema. Random-effects meta-analyses were performed using mean differences with 95% confidence intervals.
Results:
A total of 185 records were identified. Out of them, four studies met the inclusion criteria. One study had a low RoB, while three showed a high risk. Meta-analysis revealed that Vitamin C-based interventions significantly reduced facial melanin compared with control. There was also a statistically significant decrease in skin hydration and elasticity.
Conclusion:
The results show that Vitamin C-based therapies effectively reduce facial melanin, improving hyperpigmentation in aging skin. However, there is a need for well-designed, larger trials with longer follow-up to confirm broader anti-aging effects.