What it is
Ascorbic acid is the biologically active form of vitamin C. As a potent antioxidant it neutralizes free radicals generated by UV and pollution, and it is widely used to help even skin tone and support a brighter, more radiant look. It is also a cofactor in collagen formation. It is unstable in water and light, so well-formulated products protect it carefully.
Safety & warnings
High-strength vitamin C can sting or irritate sensitive skin, especially at low pH; introduce gradually and patch test.
Origin & sourcing
Produced industrially, commonly from glucose via fermentation and chemical steps.
History
Vitamin C was isolated and characterized in the early 1930s, work that was later recognized with a Nobel Prize.
Questions everyone asks
What does vitamin C do in skincare?
It is an antioxidant that helps defend against free radicals and supports a brighter, more even-looking complexion.
Why does my vitamin C product turn yellow or brown?
Pure ascorbic acid oxidizes when exposed to air and light, which can darken it and reduce its potency.