Anyone who loves skincare knows that Vitamin C is an important part of any routine. It fends off free radicals from UV and pollutants, makes your skin glow, and reduces the appearance of fine lines. But not all Vitamin C is created equal. One variant, called Ascorbyl glucoside, is a more stable, gentler take on the vitamin. Here’s what you need to know about this important antioxidant, and how to incorporate it into your skincare routine.
What is Ascorbyl Glucoside?
Ascorbyl Glucoside is a derivative of l-ascorbic acid (aka Vitamin C). It’s a water-soluble form of Vitamin C that’s less potent than pure l-ascorbic acid. And, while many people want the most potent forms of active ingredients in their skincare products, when it comes to Vitamin C, having something a bit gentler is actually a plus, as l-ascorbic acid can be pretty harsh on sensitive skin.
However, what’s really interesting about ascorbyl glucoside is that it can penetrate your skin and actually convert to L-ascorbic acid so you get the same benefits with less potential to irritate your skin.
What are the benefits?
Ascorbyl Glucoside has so many benefits when it comes to skincare. It offers the skin-brightening and wrinkle-reducing benefits of Vitamin C, and it boosts collagen while fading hyperpigmentation and protecting your skin from free radicals. As we mentioned above, Ascorbyl Glucoside is also gentler than other forms of Vitamin C, so it’s great for even sensitive skin.
It’s also incredibly shelf stable, which is super important. L-ascorbic acid is highly unstable, meaning that it oxidizes quickly when it’s exposed to air, light, and heat. The molecules begin to break down and become ineffective. Not only will you not get the great benefits of Vitamin C, using l-ascorbic acid that has oxidized can actually have a negative impact on your skin. Ascorbyl Glucoside is much less sensitive to oxidation, meaning that it’s more stable and you can feel confident that it’s actually working when you put it on your skin.
How to select the right product?
There are a few brands that produce Ascorbyl Glucoside based serums like Drunk Elephant and Paula’s Choice. However, my current favorite is the Vitamin C Serum from VERITAO. This serum stands out in its ability to be absorbed well into the skin and leave a hydrated, non sticky finish. It also smells citrusy and fresh, not metallic like some other formulations. It’s ideal especially for those who have felt dry and flakey after using some other Vitamin C serums. Lastly, I really appreciate how well it layers under makeup, it’s lightweight and non-sticky.
We reached out to the brand to better understand the science behind the formulation. Here is what is different about their approach:
A highly efficacious, tailored Ascorbyl Glucoside: VERITAO uses a patented Ascorbyl Glucoside that has been optimized for absorption. This Vitamin C has been developed to be able to penetrate deep into the skin and ensure a high rate of absorption, meaning less is needed to get the rich benefits of Vitamin C.
The Ascorbyl Glucoside delivery: The delivery mechanism includes Ferulic Acid, Kiwi Fruit Water, and Sophora Flavescens Extract to heighten the impact of the Ascorbyl Glucoside and assist in delivering it effectively and quickly to the skin.
Packed with hydrating supporting ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Nelumbo Nucifera Root Water, and Aloe deliver a powerful moisturizing effect while promoting skin elasticity. Further, these ingredients help provide a silky, non-sticky, finish.
I recommend using this serum in the morning and optionally in the evening. It’s vegan, cruelty free, and non-GMO. Over the course of regular use you will see an evening of skin tone and a glowing finish, the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, and firmer skin.
Whether this brand or another, Vitamin C has been a skincare superstar for years. Adding Ascorbyl Glucoside to your routine is the perfect way to get all the benefits of this powerful antioxidant without the dryness and irritation that many people experience with l-ascorbic acid.
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