ASCORBIC ACID
Ascorbic acid, also known as vitamin C, is the L form of ascorbic acid found naturally in citrus fruit, other fruit, and vegetables. It is a water-soluble molecule and a reducing agent, a property behind its well-known antioxidant activity.
ASCORBIC ACID: what it is
Ascorbic acid, also known as vitamin C, is the L form of ascorbic acid found naturally in citrus fruit, other fruit, and vegetables. It is a water-soluble molecule and a reducing agent, a property behind its well-known antioxidant activity.
In cosmetics, the name refers to ascorbic acid itself, not to every vitamin C derivative. Salts and derivatives can behave differently in a formula, so this label name specifically identifies that form of the ingredient. The raw-material source used in a particular product cannot be determined from the ingredient list alone.
ASCORBIC ACID: what it does in cosmetics
In a product, ascorbic acid can help limit oxidation reactions. That can matter for formula stability and helps explain why it appears in skin-care products; it may also support skin conditioning, meaning a more cared-for feel on the skin rather than a medical effect.
A review of topical vitamin C brought together studies and uses in skin preparations, but that does not make every product containing ascorbic acid a treatment. The outcome depends on the whole preparation, including the ingredient form and how well it remains stable; its presence on a label alone cannot predict an effect on wrinkles, dark spots, or skin disease.
Products containing this ingredient
See which products include it and the name used in each composition.
