Welcome to a comprehensive guide on the power of vitamin C for achieving flawless skin! Vitamin C, one of the most potent antioxidants on the planet, is a skincare superhero known for its fantastic anti-aging and brightening properties. Choosing a suitable form of vitamin C can be crucial in achieving skin perfection. But did you know that not all types of vitamin C are created equal? In this post, I’ll cover everything from pure ascorbic acid to ethyl ascorbic acid.
Flawless skin is not just about signs of aging. It’s also about protection against environmental aggressors, such as pollution and sunlight, which can damage the skin and accelerate aging. Vitamin C plays a vital role in combating these harmful factors. To achieve optimal results, select the suitable form of vitamin C. Different forms of vitamin C work in different ways and provide other benefits, so choosing the most ideal for your skin type and specific needs is important.
In this post:
- What is Vitamin C?
- How Vitamin C benefits the skin
- How to Incorporate Vitamin C Into Your Skincare Routine
- Tips for Maximizing the Benefits of Vitamin C
- Potential Side Effects and Precautions
- Types of Vitamin C for Skin Perfection
- Ascorbic Acid / products
- Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate / products
- Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate
- Ascorbyl Palmitate / products
- Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate / products
- Ascorbyl Glucoside / products
- Ascorbyl Methylsilanol Pectinate / products
- Ethyl Ascorbic Acid / products
- Summary of Vitamin C Forms
- Conclusion
What is Vitamin C?
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that is crucial for skin health. It helps combat free radicals, as well as molecules that can damage the skin and lead to premature aging. As a potent antioxidant, vitamin C also aids in repairing skin damage, reducing redness, and improving skin tone.
Vitamin C comes in various forms, each with its unique advantages. The best-known form of Vitamin C is L-ascorbic acid, which is most effective in neutralizing free radicals. Other types, such as ascorbyl palmitate and sodium ascorbyl phosphate, are more stable and less irritating to the skin but may not offer the same level of protection.
Whether you aim to protect the skin from environmental damage, reduce signs of aging, or improve the overall skin appearance, vitamin C can benefit your skincare routine. But how do you choose the proper form for you? That depends on several factors, including your skin type and its specific needs.
The key to beautiful, radiant skin is not just using Vitamin C but using the correct form of Vitamin C. Each type varies in stability, absorption rate, pH level, and interaction with other ingredients. Understanding these differences will help you choose the right product to address your skin concerns and ultimately achieve your goals.
How Vitamin C benefits the skin
Vitamin C is one of those rare skincare ingredients that genuinely has many benefits. However, three main ones you should bear in mind are:
- Anti-aging Properties: Vitamin C boosts collagen production, which is essential for the elasticity and firmness of your skin- this can significantly reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Brightening and Evening-Out Skin Tone: Vitamin C brightens the skin and fades hyperpigmentation, including dark spots and acne scars, leading to a more even skin tone.
- Protection against Environmental Damage: As a potent antioxidant, Vitamin C can neutralize harmful free radicals generated by exposure to UV radiation and other environmental stressors. This protective effect can prevent premature aging and maintain the health and vibrancy of your skin.
Factors to Consider
When choosing a suitable form of vitamin C, it’s essential to consider several factors: your skin type, specific needs, and the desired concentration of vitamin C.
*In addition, for all the products and ingredients described below, it is important to patch test and discontinue use if any adverse reactions occur.
Skin Type and Concerns
For example, if you have sensitive skin, a more stable form of vitamin C, such as ascorbyl palmitate or Ascorbyl Methylsilanol Pectinate, might suit you. On the other hand, if you aim to achieve maximum anti-aging results, you might choose L-ascorbic acid, which is the most effective in stimulating collagen production.
Concentration Levels
The level of vitamin C concentration can also be a critical factor. Higher concentrations of vitamin C can be more effective but may also irritate some skin types, so finding the right balance is essential.
How to Incorporate Vitamin C Into Your Skincare Routine
Incorporating vitamin C into your skincare routine can be as simple as:
- Use a Serum: Vitamin C serums are a great way to deliver this potent antioxidant directly to your skin. Apply a few drops to your face in the morning before your moisturizer- after cleansing and toning.
- Layer with Other Skincare Products: Vitamin C works well with other ingredients like vitamin E and ferulic acid (often, they are found together in formulation), enhancing its efficacy. Layer these together for maximum skin benefits.
- Frequency of Use: Start using Vitamin C products every other day, then gradually increase to daily use as your skin gets used to it.
Tips for Maximizing the Benefits of Vitamin C
- Proper storage of vitamin C products can help preserve their effectiveness. Vitamin C is sensitive to light and air, so storing products in a dark, cool place is best.
- Combining vitamin C with other antioxidants, such as vitamin E and ferulic acid, can enhance its antioxidant properties and help the skin better absorb vitamin C.
- Using vitamin C with sunscreen can also be beneficial. Vitamin C helps neutralize the free radicals, providing additional protection to the skin. Remember to use sunscreen when you’re using Vitamin C products. While Vitamin C can help protect your skin from UV damage, it’s not a substitute for sunscreen. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher daily to shield your skin from harmful UV rays.
Potential Side Effects and Precautions
While vitamin C is generally safe for use on the skin, some people may experience side effects such as redness, stinging, or dryness. If you experience any unpleasant side effects, try a different form of vitamin C or reduce the concentration.
Additionally, some forms of vitamin C, such as L-ascorbic acid, can increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight. If you use these forms of vitamin C, it’s essential also to use sunscreen to protect the skin from damage.
If you are new to vitamin C, start with a lower concentration and gradually increase the amount as your skin adjusts. It’s also always a good idea to perform a patch test on a small skin area before using a new product on your entire face.
Types of Vitamin C for Skin Perfection
Ascorbic acid, or L-ascorbic acid, is a form of vitamin C commonly used in skincare products. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of pure ascorbic acid:
Positives:
- Antioxidant Protection: Pure ascorbic acid is a potent antioxidant that helps neutralize free radicals, which can cause damage to the skin and accelerate the aging process. It helps protect the skin from environmental stressors like pollution and UV radiation.
- Brightening and Evening Skin Tone: Ascorbic acid can help fade hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and uneven skin tone, giving the skin a more radiant and even complexion.
- Collagen Production: It stimulates collagen synthesis, a protein that helps maintain the skin’s elasticity and firmness – which results in smoother, plumper, and more youthful-looking skin.
- Ingredient Versatility: Pure ascorbic acid can be incorporated into various skincare formulations, such as serums, creams, and masks, allowing for flexibility in product choices.
Negatives:
- Potential Irritation: Pure ascorbic acid can irritate sensitive skin types, especially at higher concentrations. It may cause redness, stinging, or dryness. It is important to patch test and start with lower concentrations to assess tolerance.
- Oxidation and Instability: Ascorbic acid is sensitive to light, air, and heat, which can lead to oxidation and a decrease in effectiveness over time. Proper packaging and storage are essential to maintain its stability.Vitamin E and ferulic acid, alongside LAA, have been shown to help stabilize this ingredient.
- PH Sensitivity: Pure ascorbic acid works best in a lower pH range (around 3.5); L-ascorbic acid’s potential for irritation is relatively high due to its requirement for a low pH to maintain stability. Consequently, this may lead to skin irritation, mainly when used alongside ingredients such as retinol or exfoliating acids. Therefore, it may not be suitable for sensitive skin types or recommended for individuals with acne.
Target Audience:
Pure ascorbic acid can significantly brighten the skin and reduce hyperpigmentation when incorporated correctly into your skincare routine. It is best applied in the morning under sunscreen to enhance UV protection. However, due to its potential for irritation, starting with a lower concentration and gradually increasing as tolerated is recommended.
Therefore, choosing natural skincare products containing L-ascorbic acid in a stable and high-quality formulation is essential. Here is a short list of some of the best natural skincare products with L-ascorbic acid and a quick review of each one:
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic is a daytime vitamin C serum that provides advanced environmental protection and improves the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and skin discoloration.
It features a synergistic antioxidant combination of 15% pure vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), 1% vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol), and 0.5% ferulic acid, which neutralizes free radicals and enhances the stability and efficacy of vitamin C.
It also contains a hyaluronic acid that hydrates and plumps the skin. This serum is paraben-free, fragrance-free, and suitable for normal, dry, and sensitive skin types.
Ursa Major Brighten Up Vitamin C Serum is a lightweight, hydrating serum with stable and potent vitamin C and other natural ingredients that help brighten, smooth, and protect skin. It can help lighten dark spots, even skin tone, boost collagen production, and reduce inflammation.
Its silky texture and subtle citrus scent make it suitable for standalone use or blending with other products. It is vegan, cruelty-free, and free of synthetic fragrances and other harsh chemicals.
Some of the other main ingredients in this serum are: Ascorbic acid/orange/citrus lemon/citrus aurantifolia polypeptides, Aspen Bark Extract as a natural source of salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid that gently exfoliates and unclogs pores, and Edelweiss Meristem Cell Culture (a stem cell complex derived from edelweiss flowers that has anti-aging and antioxidant properties).
Algenist Blue Algae Vitamin C Skinclarity Brightening Serum is a serum that claims to provide advanced environmental protection and improve the appearance of skin texture, brightness, and firmness.
It contains Blue Algae Vitamin C, a new pure vitamin naturally sourced from spirulina and regeneratively produced in the labs. It also has Alguronic acid, a patented ingredient that helps address the signs of skin aging, and Blue skin-forward marine fertilizer, a patented ingredient that helps improve skin texture and hydration.
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate is a less potent but more stable vitamin C. Sodium ascorbyl phosphate is excellent at fighting acne due to its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to reduce skin sebum oil production. It penetrates quickly and is less likely to irritate, making it suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Sodium ascorbyl phosphate is a stable vitamin C derivative commonly used in skincare products. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of sodium ascorbyl phosphate:
Positives:
- Stability:Sodium ascorbyl phosphateis more stable than pure ascorbic acid, making it less prone to oxidation and degradation – this allows for a longer shelf life and better efficacy in skincare formulations.
- Brightening and Even Skin Tone: Sodium ascorbyl phosphate effectively reduces hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and uneven skin tone. It inhibits melanin production, resulting in a more luminous and even complexion.
- Antioxidant Protection: Like other forms of vitamin C, Sodium ascorbyl phosphate is an antioxidant that helps protect the skin from free radicals, environmental stressors, and UV damage. It helps neutralize harmful molecules and promotes overall skin health.
- Gentle on the Skin: Sodium ascorbyl phosphate is generally well-tolerated by all skin types, including sensitive skin. It is less likely to cause irritation or sensitivity reactions than pure ascorbic acid, making it a suitable choice for delicate skin users.
- Formulators can encapsulate SAP in the formulation to enhance product stability and extend shelf life, but they may choose not to include it in an encapsulated form in cosmetic products.
Negatives:
- Lower Potency: Compared to pure ascorbic acid, Sodium ascorbyl phosphate may have a slightly lower potency regarding its effects on collagen synthesis and antioxidant activity.
- Slower Results: While Sodium ascorbyl phosphate can provide noticeable results, the effects may be less instant or dramatic than other vitamin C. However, with consistent and prolonged use, you will see significant improvements.
Target Audience:
Sodium ascorbyl phosphate addresses hyperpigmentation, skin dullness, and uneven skin tone. It can be used by all skin types, including sensitive skin, due to its gentle nature.
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate can be suitable for individuals with acne because it is less irritating than other forms of vitamin C, such as ascorbic acid. Additionally, Sodium ascorbyl phosphate has mild anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce redness and inflammation associated with acne.
Here are some examples of products with Sodium ascorbyl phosphate :
FaceTheory Supergel Oil-free Moisturiser M3 – The best for oily and acne-prone skin. This is a vegan and cruelty-free general moisturizer that contains sodium ascorbyl phosphate, along with other ingredients such as AHA, BHA, Hyaluronic acid, and Niacinamide. It can help fight acne, brighten skin, reduce pores, and improve texture.
InstaNatural Hyaluronic Oil Free Moisturizer with vitamin C – this moisturizer with Sodium ascorbyl phosphate and other ingredients such as Hyaluronic acid, Niacinamide, vitamin E, and Green Tea Extract is a great choice for all skin types. It can hydrate, soothe, protect, and plump the skin.
Glow Recipe Guava Vitamin C Bright-Eye Gel Cream is for dark circles and puffiness around the eyes. This eye moisturizer contains sodium Ascorbyl phosphate and other ingredients such as Guava extract, Niacinamide, Peptides, and Caffeine. It brightens, firm, and hydrate the delicate eye area.
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate is another less potent but more stable form of vitamin C. It’s an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin. Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate has the following benefits for the skin:
- Improves skin hydration, reducing transepidermal water loss and enhancing skin barrier function.
- Stimulates collagen production, which can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Provides antioxidant protection, helping to counteract free radical damage.
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate is another stable vitamin C derivative commonly used in skincare products. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate:
Positives:
- Stability: Like other vitamin C derivatives, Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate is more stable than pure ascorbic acid. It has a longer shelf life and remains effective for a more extended period.
- Brightening and Even Skin Tone: This form of Vitamin C has been found to have skin-brightening properties and can help reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and uneven skin tone. It promotes a more radiant and uniform complexion.
- Antioxidant Protection: Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate protects the skin from free radicals and environmental damage caused by pollution and UV radiation. It helps neutralize harmful molecules and contributes to overall skin health.
- Gentle on the Skin: This ingredient is generally well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin. It tends to be less irritating and less likely to cause sensitivity reactions than pure ascorbic acid.
Negatives:
- Potency: Even though its potency may be lower than pure ascorbic acid’s, it is still effective in providing antioxidant protection and brightening benefits to the skin.
- Slower Results: Like other vitamin C derivatives, the effects of Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate may take longer to show noticeable improvements compared to pure ascorbic acid.
I recommend using the product consistently and over an extended period for optimal results.
For the best results, look for products that list Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate high up in the ingredients list:
Pomifera Brighten Vitamin C Serum: serum with a stable form of vitamin C magnesium ascorbyl phosphate and contains Pomifera oil, a rare and potent oil derived from the Osage Orange Fruit, which has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-microbial properties.
This serum enhances skin elasticity, promotes firmness and radiance, diminishes age spots, mitigates skin damage, and reduces hyperpigmentation.
EWG VERIFIED®
The Kumuya Illuminate Nutri-Serum Concentrate is a regenerative facial serum designed to reduce melanin production, address hyperpigmentation, and improve skin tone.
This serum is suitable for all skin types and ages and is free from toxins, parabens, and silicon, making it safe for use, even for pregnant individuals. The formulation is 100% natural, and it is dermatology tested.
Key benefits of this serum include:
Helps fade dark spots, refining and reducing the appearance of large pores, redness, and irritation, and protecting the skin against free radicals and environmental stress.
This product also provides the skin with the essential vitamins and minerals needed for self-healing, promoting a healthy, natural glow.
The serum contains Alpha Arbutin, Niacinamide, Vitamin C, Ferulic Acid, Camu Camu Fruit Extract, and Licorice Root Extract as crucial active ingredients.
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Shaklee Moisture Activating Serum: This is a fast-absorbing gel that delivers intense hydration and moisture retention. It contains four kinds of Hyaluronic acid, which attract and retain moisture, and Squalane, which nourishes and moisturizes the skin.
It also contains Cactus extract, rich in antioxidants, polyphenols, fatty acids, and amino acids, and a Muscadine grape polyphenol blend, which supports collagen and elastin production and prevents their breakdown. This serum increases hydration levels, reducing the appearance of fine, dry lines and redness.
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Ascorbyl Palmitate is a less common form of vitamin C and is a fat-soluble derivative of ascorbic acid. This form combines ascorbic acid with palmitic acid, creating a more stable but less potent type of Vitamin C. It can penetrate the skin more quickly due to its fat solubility.
Ascorbyl palmitate is another form of vitamin C commonly used in skincare products. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of ascorbyl palmitate:
Positives:
- Antioxidant Protection: Acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect the skin from free radicals and environmental damage. It helps neutralize harmful molecules and supports overall skin health.
- Skin Brightening: Ascorbyl palmitate can help brighten the skin and improve the appearance of hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and uneven skin tone, resulting in a more radiant complexion.
- Stability: Being more stable than pure ascorbic acid, this ingredients is less prone to oxidation and degradation – allowing for a longer shelf life and better efficacy in skincare formulations.
- Hydrating Properties: Ascorbyl palmitate has emollient properties, which can help moisturize and soften the skin. It can contribute to a smoother and more supple complexion.
Negatives:
- Potential Sensitivity: Some individuals may experience sensitivity or irritation when using ascorbyl palmitate products.
Target Audience:
The benefits of Ascorbyl Palmitate include being suitable for all skin types; it’s best used in formulations with other forms of vitamin C due to its lower potency.
Products with Ascorbyl Palmitate:
Sonage C Shield Smart Serum: This serum contains vitamin C (three types), Hyaluronic acid, Turmeric Root Extract, and blue light shield to fade dark spots, even skin tone, and brighten skin. It has a citrusy scent and a lightweight texture that absorbs quickly. This product makes skin softer, brighter, and more hydrated.
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Suki Radical Results Youth Serum: This serum is a natural retinol alternative and Ascorbyl Palmitate (vitamin C) that boosts collagen, fights wrinkles, and promotes cell turnover. It also contains Ubidecarenone (coenzyme q10), Resveratrol, and vitamin E to strengthen and protect the skin, reduce fine lines, and make the skin look glowy and fresh.
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Fresh Creme Ancienne Face Oil Elixir: This luxurious face oil moisturizes, soothes, and nourishes the skin. It contains Ascorbyl Palmitate, Meadowfoam seed oil, Commiphora extract, and vitamin E to hydrate, firm, and reduce redness. It has a floral and herbal scent and a rich texture that melts into the skin. This oil makes their skin feel soft and smooth.
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Tropic Super Greens: This serum is a natural retinol alternative that boosts the skin’s natural defenses and nutrient levels. It contains Chlorophyll, Kale and Broccoli Oils, Maca Root, Marula Oil, Tamanu Oil, and Green Coffee Extract that are known to nourish, soothe, repair, and energize the skin. This serum improves complexion, reduces redness and irritation, and gives a glow.
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(Synonym – Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate)
Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate (Tetra-C) is a vitamin C derivative soluble in oil. It’s known to be one of the most stable and effective forms of vitamin C and is less likely to irritate the skin. Here are a few benefits of Tetra-C:
- It’s a potent antioxidant, protecting the skin from damaging free radicals.
- It boosts collagen production, which improves skin elasticity and reduces signs of aging.
- It inhibits melanin production, helping to brighten the skin and reduce hyperpigmentation.
Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate is a lipid-soluble vitamin C derivative commonly used in skincare products. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate:
Positives:
- Enhanced Stability: Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate is highly stable and less prone to oxidation than pure ascorbic acid – this allows for longer shelf life and better efficacy in skincare formulations.
- Effective Brightening: Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate inhibits melanin production effectively, helping to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and uneven skin tone. It promotes a brighter and more luminous complexion.
- Penetration and Bioavailability: Due to its lipid-soluble nature, this active ingredient can penetrate the skin more quickly than other forms of vitamin C, promoting better absorption and bioavailability and delivering its benefits deep into the skin.
- Antioxidant Properties: Like other forms of vitamin C, Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate acts as an antioxidant, protecting the skin from free radicals and environmental damage. It helps neutralize harmful molecules and supports overall skin health.
Negatives:
- Cost: Can be more expensive than other forms of vitamin C, which may disadvantage individuals on a tight budget.
- Individual Sensitivity: While Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate is generally well-tolerated, some individuals may still experience sensitivity or irritation. Performing a patch test before using products containing this ingredient is recommended.
Target Audience:
Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate is suitable for individuals who want to incorporate vitamin C into their skincare routine, particularly those with hyperpigmentation, dullness, and uneven skin tone. It is ideal for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
Beautycounter Counter+ All Bright C Serum is a natural and vegan face serum that contains two stable forms of vitamin C: ascorbyl palmitate and bis-glyceryl ascorbate. These ingredients help prevent skin aging, lighten pigmentation, stimulate collagen production, and protect the skin from free radicals.
This product contains Turmeric and Camu Camu extracts, which have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and refreshing properties; thanks to Hyaluronic acid and Almond oil, it also hydrates and soothes the skin
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Elysium Perfecting Anti-Aging Serum is a natural and cruelty-free serum that claims to have the highest concentration of Marine extracts derived from algae, micro-nutrients, and sea plants. These ingredients provide unmatched restorative powers for the skin, such as improving hydration, firmness, resilience, complexion, and smoothness.
The serum also contains vitamin C (Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate), Glacial Algae Extract, Marine Micro-Nutrient Extract, Laminaria Digitata Sea Plant, Hyaluronic acid, Panthenol, Aloe vera, Rose hip oil, Squalane, known to have moisturizing, soothing, and anti-aging benefits.
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Lady Polpo Sister Serum: A dermatologist’s mom designed this serum, ensuring its safety for pregnant women. It contains two forms of vitamin C (Tetra C and Ethyl Ascorbic Acid), Ferulic Acid, Niacinamide, Probiotic, Hexapeptide, and Wilka bark to brighten, tighten, and smooth the skin. This serum makes skin more hydrated, radiant, and healthy.
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Ascorbyl Glucoside is a water-soluble derivative of vitamin C. Its stability surpasses that of pure ascorbic acid, and skincare product formulations can easily incorporate it. When applied to the skin, it breaks down into ascorbic acid, providing all the great benefits of vitamin C.
Ascorbyl Glucoside is a stable vitamin C derivative commonly used in skincare products. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of Ascorbyl Glucoside:
Positives:
- Stability: More stable than pure ascorbic acid, making it less prone to oxidation and degradation – thus allowing for a longer shelf life and better efficacy in skincare formulations.
- Skin Brightening: Effectively inhibits melanin production, helping to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and uneven skin tone. It promotes a brighter and more even complexion.
- Gentle on the Skin: Ascorbyl Glucoside is generally well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin. It tends to be less irritating and less likely to cause sensitivity reactions than pure ascorbic acid.
- Antioxidant Protection: Like other forms of vitamin C, Ascorbyl Glucoside protects the skin from free radicals and environmental damage. It helps neutralize harmful molecules and supports overall skin health.
Negatives:
- Slower Results: The effects of Ascorbyl Glucoside may take longer to show noticeable improvements compared to pure ascorbic acid. We recommend using the product consistently and over an extended period for optimal results.
Target Audience:
Ascorbyl Glucoside, a form of vitamin C, is less likely to irritate, making it suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Farma Dorsch Go Organic Serum Booster: This serum is a 100% natural product that claims to reduce the appearance of dark spots, hydrate and soften the skin, and repair damaged tissues. It contains vitamin C (Ascorbyl Glucoside), Saffron Stem Cells, Prebiotics, and Hyaluronic acid to brighten and firm the skin.
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Kora Organics Noni Bright Vitamin C Serum: This potent Vitamin C serum uses a stabilized form of vitamin C that doesn’t degrade in natural light. It also contains super fruits such as Acerola, Kakadu plum extract, and Noni Fruit Extract to boost collagen production and protect the skin from free radicals.
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Rooted Beauty Brightening Vitamin C Serum: This is a lightweight, fast-absorbing vitamin C serum that moisturizes, firms, and brightens the skin. It uses Ascorbyl glucoside, a water-soluble form of vitamin C, Ginger Root Extract, Ginseng Root Extract, Licorice Root Extract, and a signature R7 Complex of antioxidants for radiant results- serum makes skin smoother, more hydrated, and more even.
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Ascorbyl Methylsilanol Pectinate
Ascorbyl Methylsilanol Pectinate is a stable and potent vitamin C commonly used in skincare products. Here are some of its potential advantages and considerations:
Positives:
- Antioxidant Properties: Primarily acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect the skin from free radicals and environmental damage. This property supports the overall health and appearance of the skin.
- Reduction of Redness: This ingredient may help reduce redness and calm the skin, making it suitable for individuals with sensitive or irritated skin.
- Thickening Agent: Ascorbyl Methylsilanol Pectinate can also function as a thickening agent in cosmetic formulations, contributing to the stability and texture of the products.
Negatives:
- Individual Sensitivity: While many may tolerate this ingredient, it is advisable to perform a patch test before using products containing it, especially for sensitive skin.
Target Audience:
Ascorbyl Methylsilanol Pectinate may be suitable for individuals looking for antioxidant-based skincare solutions and those seeking to address redness and sensitivity in their skincare routines.
Novexpert Booster With Vitamin C: This serum contains 25% stabilized vitamin C (Ascorbyl Methylsilanol Pectinate), a powerful antioxidant that brightens the skin, reduces hyperpigmentation, and stimulates collagen production.
It also has Adenosine-Anti-Aging Active (Biotechnology), Sodium PCA Moisturizing Active (Beetroot), and vitamin E to enhance the effects of vitamin C and protect the skin from free radicals.
5% Vitamin C – Blemish Relief Serum: This serum is a gentle and effective solution for blemish-prone skin. It contains 5% vitamin C (Ascorbyl Methylsilanol Pectinate), which helps fade acne scars and dark spots; Salicylic acid soothes and heals the skin and prevents future breakouts; and Allantoin, which calms the skin.
This serum is the best for blemishes, acne breakouts, bumpy skin, enlarged pores, and oiliness.
Zelens Power C is a high-potency concentrate with a 20% highly stable vitamin C ester and a proprietary complex of fermented botanicals rich in vitamin C. Some of its main ingredients include two types of vitamin C, Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate and Ascorbyl Methylsilanol Pectinate (antioxidants), Glycine Soja (soybean) Seed Extract, Terminalia Ferdinandiana Fruit Extract (skin brightening), Glycerin, Squalane, Sodium Hyaluronate (skin-identical ingredients), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (soothing), and various other moisturizing, emollient, and buffering ingredients.
These components work together to promote skin firmness, elasticity, and brightness while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Ethyl Ascorbic Acid is a highly stable version of vitamin C with excellent penetration abilities, potentially more effective at boosting collagen production and reducing the appearance of dark spots than other forms of vitamin C.
Ethyl Ascorbic Acid is a stable vitamin C derivative commonly used in skincare products. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of Ethyl Ascorbic Acid:
Positives:
- Stability: Ethyl Ascorbic Acid is highly stable and less prone to oxidation than pure ascorbic acid – this allows for a longer shelf life and better efficacy in skincare formulations.
- Skin Brightening: Ethyl Ascorbic Acid effectively inhibits melanin production, helping to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and uneven skin tone and promoting brighter and more even complexion.
- Antioxidant Protection: Like other forms of vitamin C, Ethyl Ascorbic Acid is a potent antioxidant, protecting the skin from free radicals and environmental damage. It helps neutralize harmful molecules and supports overall skin health.
- Improved Penetration: Thanks to its lipophilic properties (soluble in both water and oil),Ethyl Ascorbic Acid has better permeability than Ascorbic Acid, and other water-loving Vitamin C derivatives have better penetration properties than pure ascorbic acid. It can penetrate the skin more efficiently, allowing it to benefit the deeper layers of the skin.
Negatives:
- Limited Research: While Ethyl Ascorbic Acid has shown promising benefits in skincare, more scientific research is needed compared to other vitamin C forms. However, the available studies suggest its efficacy and stability.
- Individual Sensitivity: While Ethyl Ascorbic Acid is generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience sensitivity or irritation.
Target Audience:
Ethyl Ascorbic Acid is suitable for all skin types.
ALPHA-H Vitamin C Serum With 10% Ethyl Ascorbic Acid is a serum that aims to improve dull, sun-damaged, and prematurely aging skin. It contains 10% Ethyl ascorbic acid, a stable form of vitamin C, Australian Tazman Pepper™ Liquorice Root Extract, and Hyaluronic Acid. The serum has a serum texture and a natural citrus scent. The serum improved the skin tone, texture, and radiance and reduced the pigmentation and moisture loss. The serum was also gentle and non-irritating on the skin.
Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum – Best For Hyperpigmentation This dual-action formula combines 10% vitamin C with White Shiitake Mushroom extract to fade dark spots and brighten the complexion. It also contains Squalane, a natural moisturizer, and Licorice Root Extract.
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AllWell Beauty- The Daily Glow AOX Serum is a serum that claims to brighten, renew, balance, refine, and firm aging skin. Its key ingredients are vitamin C (Ethyl Ascorbic Acid), Glycolic Acid, Niacinamide, and Acer Rubrum Extract. Acer rubrum is a maple tree with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The serum is vegan, cruelty-free, clinically proven, clean, and dermatologist-tested.
EWG VERIFIED®
| Vitamin C Form | Specific Skin Concerns and Performance | Suitable for Skin Type |
| L-ascorbic acid | Brightening, reducing hyperpigmentation, collagen stimulation | Diverse, but can be irritating, especially for sensitive skin |
| Ascorbyl Palmitate | Antioxidant protection, hydration, improving skin texture | Dry and mature skin, sensitive to oily |
| Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate | Reducing redness, antioxidant protection | Sensitive skin, prone to redness, combination skin |
| Ascorbyl Methylsilanol Pectinate | Antioxidant protection, brightening | Normal to dry skin |
| Ascorbyl glucoside | Reducing hyperpigmentation, mild antioxidant protection | Normal to oily skin, sensitive to oily |
| Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate | Reducing irritation, antioxidant protection | Sensitive skin, prone to irritations |
| Ethyl ascorbic acid | Brightening, reducing hyperpigmentation | Diverse |
| Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate | Antioxidant protection, hydration, collagen stimulation | Dry to normal skin, mature skin |
Choosing the Right Form of Vitamin C
When choosing a vitamin C product, it’s essential to consider factors such as concentration, stability, and the type of vitamin C. Different formulations may use various forms of vitamin C. L-ascorbic acid is the most extensively researched and has demonstrated numerous benefits for the skin. The specific type of vitamin C and the formulation can significantly impact the product’s effectiveness.
Vitamin C is a powerful tool in the pursuit of flawless skin. Whether your goal is to fight aging, protect the skin from environmental aggressors, or improve overall skin health, vitamin C can help. The key is choosing the suitable form of vitamin C for your skin and specific needs.
Through this blog, we’ve learned about different forms of vitamin C and their benefits, how to choose the suitable type for you, and how to incorporate vitamin C into your skincare routine. Information in this blog post will help you maximize the benefits of vitamin C and uncover your skin’s perfection. You can choose the right products to incorporate into your skincare routine by understanding the various forms and their benefits. Remember, the secret to unlocking the glow is to select the correct type of vitamin C that suits your skin’s particular needs.
So, let’s unlock the glow and embrace the journey to skin perfection with Vitamin C! Happy glowing!
Image by Freepk
This is SO useful – one of the best articles on Vitamin C I have read!
Thank you so much!
I’m delighted to hear that you found the article helpful! Feel free to ask if you have any more questions or if there is anything specific you’d like to know more about. Thank you for your positive feedback!