What it is
3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid is a derivative of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) in which an ethyl group is attached at the 3-position, giving it improved stability and water solubility compared with pure ascorbic acid. In cosmetics it is used as an antioxidant and skin-conditioning ingredient, popular for its resistance to oxidation. It is widely featured in brightening-positioned skincare and sunscreen formulas.
Safety & warnings
As a stabilized vitamin C derivative, it is generally well tolerated and tends to be milder than pure ascorbic acid at comparable concentrations. Some sensitive users may still experience transient tingling. It is not associated with notable comedogenicity.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic; produced by chemically modifying ascorbic acid (vitamin C) to attach an ethyl group at the 3-position.
Questions everyone asks
What is 3-O-ethyl ascorbic acid?
It is a stable, water-soluble derivative of vitamin C used as an antioxidant and conditioning ingredient in cosmetics.
How does it differ from regular vitamin C?
The added ethyl group makes it more stable and resistant to oxidation than pure ascorbic acid while remaining water-soluble.