Even a modest shortfall in vitamin C can quietly weaken collagen, which makes blood vessels and skin more fragile and sets the stage for easy bruising and rough, bumpy skin. Clinical descriptions of scurvy consistently report extensive bruising and the classic “follicular hyperkeratosis” pattern—dry, rough skin with hard plugs around hair follicles and tiny perifollicular hemorrhages—that clear rapidly once vitamin C is replaced. For someone who bruises at the slightest bump or notices persistent, goose‑bump–like roughness on the thighs or legs, it can be eye‑opening to learn that a simple vitamin C gap in their diet may be contributing—and that correcting it often leads to visible skin changes within weeks. This medication is commonly used for Pain Management.
Pasquali M, Still MJ, Vales T, Rosen RI, Evinger JD, Dembure PP, Longo N, Elsas LJ. Abnormal formation of collagen cross-links in skin fibroblasts cultured from patients with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome type VI. Proc Assoc Am Physicians. 1997 Jan;109(1):33-41. PMID: 9010914. Fitzpatrick RE, Rostan EF. Double-blind, half-face study comparing topical vitamin C and vehicle for rejuvenation of photodamage. Dermatol Surg. 2002 Mar;28(3):231-6. Fraser IM, Dean M. Extensive bruising secondary to vitamin C deficiency. BMJ Case Rep. Humbert P, Fanian F, Lihoreau T, Jeudy A, Pierard GE. Bateman purpura (dermatoporosis): a localized scurvy treated by topical vitamin C - double-blind randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2018 Feb;32(2):323-328. 2009;2009:bcr08.2008.0750.
Some side effects may be linked to nutrient depletion caused by this medication.
Indomethacin, a medication commonly used to treat inflammation and pain, can decrease the absorption of vitamin C. Vitamin C plays a vital role in immune function and the body's antioxidant defenses. To counteract this effect and maintain a healthy immune system and antioxidant capacity, vitamin C supplementation is recommended for individuals taking Indomethacin.
Studies suggest that indomethacin, a type of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), might decrease calcium levels in the body. To prevent potential calcium deficiency, supplementation should be considered for individuals taking indomethacin on a long-term basis.