An antioxidant, unstable in water and air.
What it is
Ascorbic acid is vitamin C. It is a strong antioxidant but oxidises easily in water, light and air, so formulas often use protective packaging or more stable derivatives.
Where it is used
Serums, powders and some moisturisers.
Limits of interpretation
The INCI list shows which ingredients are present, not how much of each. Above 1%, ingredients are listed in descending order of weight; below 1% the order is free.
A darker colour of an ascorbic acid serum can indicate oxidation.
Functions
- Antioxidant
- Inhibiting reactions promoted by oxygen, thus avoiding oxidation and rancidity.
- Buffering
- Stabilising the pH of an aqueous medium in a narrow range even if an acid or base is added. Altering and/or maintaining a cosmetic product's pH at the desired level.
- Fragrance
- Imparting an odour or taste. Creating a perceivable pleasant smell and/or masking a bad smell.
- Skin conditioning
- Maintaining the skin in good condition.
EU regulation
This ingredient is not listed in the annexes of Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 in the CosIng data.
Products with this ingredient (574)
- Vitamin C Brightening / Moisturizing Body Lotion · Skin by Zaron
- Vitamin C Skin Boost Instant Smoother · The Body Shop
- Revolution Pro Ultimate Radiant Under Eye Concealer · Revolution
- Revolution Skin C The Glow 12.5% Vitamin C Brightening Serum · Revolution
- Revolution Skin Wide Awake 10% Vitamin C & Tri-Peptide Brightening Eye Serum · Revolution
- MIRACLE PREP 3IN1 BEAUTY PROTECT PRIMER · Max Factor
- Miracle Prep Primer 3 in 1: base protettiva antismog e luci blu · Max Factor
- Blueberry Sensitive Mascara · Lumene
- HERKKÄ Soothing Cleansing Milk · Lumene
- Soothing Cleansing Milk · Lumene
- Blueberry Sensitive Volume Mascara · Lumene
- Bright Eyes Under Eye Concealer · Lumene