Glyceryl Ascorbate

Glyceryl Ascorbate at a Glance

• Made by binding ascorbic acid with hydrating glycerin
• Helps visibly fade discoloration by inhibiting transfer of excess melanin
• Excellent skin penetration and easier to formulate with than ascorbic acid
• Not considered as potent an antioxidant as pure vitamin C (ascorbic acid)
• Most effective in a pH between 3–5 and more stable than ascorbic acid

Glyceryl Ascorbate Description

Glyceryl ascorbate is a water-soluble form of vitamin C made by binding ascorbic acid with the humectant glycerin. This compound is considered more stable and offers formulary flexibility because it isn’t beholden to the same narrow pH range for efficacy compared to pure vitamin C (ascorbic acid).

This form shares many of the same benefits as regular vitamin C, including being an antioxidant, improving skin tone, helping to fade hyperpigmentation and post-breakout marks, and supporting skin’s firmness.

A derivative of glyceryl ascorbate known as 3-O-Laurylglyceryl ascorbate (VC-3LG) has been shown to improve ceramide synthesis in skin which in turn helps strengthen skin’s surface against moisture loss. VC-3LG is also a formidable antioxidant and can help improve skin’s natural antioxidant defenses.

Interestingly, although glyceryl ascorbate and its derivatives are very good antioxidants, they’re considered less potent than ascorbic acid, which is less stable in the presence of light and air. This is likely due to the molecular changes necessary to create vitamin C derivatives. There’s a trade-off between greater stability and reduced antioxidant potential.

Concentration range of glyceryl ascorbate in skin care is between 1-10%; however, there are no studies showing which percentages are needed for results on discolorations, wrinkles, or skin tone improvement. Instead, some studies imply that the concentrations for such benefits are comparable to pure vitamin C.

Glyceryl Ascorbate References