Vitamin C derivative (antioxidant)
Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
INCI: 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid·Studied at 1–5%·Moderate evidence
An etherified, water-soluble vitamin C derivative that is more stable than L-ascorbic acid and converts to ascorbic acid in skin, studied for antioxidant support and the appearance of brightness and even tone.
Studied for
- ·The appearance of brighter, more even-looking skin
- ·The look of reduced dark spots
- ·Antioxidant support against visible environmental dullness
How it’s thought to work
An ethyl-ether of ascorbic acid studied for brightness-related appearance benefits; it is more stable and less pH-fussy than L-ascorbic acid, though the direct evidence is more limited than for the pure form.