What it is
Cetyl 2-Glyceryl Ascorbate is a chemically modified form of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) in which a cetyl (C16 alkyl) chain is attached at the 2-position of a glyceryl ascorbate ester. The cetyl chain increases lipophilicity relative to unmodified ascorbic acid, improving compatibility with oil-phase cosmetic systems and potentially aiding penetration through the skin's lipid-rich stratum corneum. As an antioxidant, it inhibits free-radical reactions promoted by oxygen, helping to protect both the skin and other formulation ingredients from oxidative deterioration. The glycerol component confers hygroscopic properties, enabling the molecule to attract and retain moisture in the skin (humectant function). Compared to pure L-ascorbic acid, this esterified derivative is more stable at neutral pH, allowing use in a wider range of formulations without the stability challenges associated with standard vitamin C.
Safety & warnings
No specific allergen, irritant, or comedogenic flags have been identified in available sources. The ingredient is subject to EU cosmetic safety regulations. Individuals with known sensitivities to ascorbic acid derivatives or fatty alcohol esters should exercise caution. No CIR safety opinion specific to Cetyl 2-Glyceryl Ascorbate was located.
Origin & sourcing
Synthesized by chemical esterification linking ascorbic acid with glycerol and a cetyl (C16 fatty) alcohol chain. The cetyl group confers greater lipophilicity than shorter-chain glyceryl ascorbates. The ingredient is listed in the EU CosIng-linked COSMILE database as being of plant and/or synthetic origin, consistent with cetyl alcohol sourced from vegetable fats or produced synthetically.
History
Cetyl 2-Glyceryl Ascorbate is listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient reference database (via COSMILE Europe) with recognized antioxidant and humectant functions. It belongs to a class of alkyl glyceryl ascorbate derivatives developed to overcome the instability of L-ascorbic acid in cosmetic formulations. Paula's Choice notes the ingredient in their database but has not yet assigned a rating due to limited publicly available independent research specific to this compound.
Questions everyone asks
What makes Cetyl 2-Glyceryl Ascorbate more stable than regular vitamin C?
Pure L-ascorbic acid oxidizes quickly in water-based formulations and requires a low pH (below 3.5) to remain active. Cetyl 2-Glyceryl Ascorbate has the ascorbic acid molecule chemically modified with a glycerol linker and a C16 cetyl chain, which shields the reactive hydroxyl groups that are prone
How does Cetyl 2-Glyceryl Ascorbate function in skincare?
It serves dual roles: as an antioxidant, it neutralizes reactive oxygen species that can damage skin cells and degrade other formulation ingredients; as a humectant, the glycerol component attracts moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers, helping to keep skin hydrated.
Is Cetyl 2-Glyceryl Ascorbate related to other glyceryl ascorbate ingredients?
Yes. It belongs to the same structural family as Lauryl Glyceryl Ascorbate and Caprylyl 2-Glyceryl Ascorbate, differing in the length of the fatty alcohol chain (C16 cetyl vs. C12 lauryl or C8 caprylyl).
Does Cetyl 2-Glyceryl Ascorbate appear in EU regulatory databases?
Yes. It is listed in the COSMILE Europe database (linked to EU CosIng) with antioxidant and humectant functions and is categorized as being of plant and/or synthetic origin. It is subject to standard EU cosmetic safety assessment requirements.