Ingredient guide
3-O-Cetyl Ascorbic Acid
INCI name · 3-o-cetyl ascorbic acid
In short
3‑O‑Cetyl Ascorbic Acid is a lipid‑friendly form of vitamin C designed to stay stable and release slowly in skin. It can support a more even look and smoother texture while being gentler than many water‑based vitamin C options.
What it is
Ether-bonded lipophilic vitamin C; extreme stability (no oxidation even at 40C/12 months); slow release via esterase cleavage in skin.
Evidence receipt
ModerateVitamin C (topical) · applied to skin
Based on 2 sources
Open the citable recordStudied in relation to brighter, more even-looking skin and collagen support over time. Formulation and freshness matter.
See 2 sources
Double-blind half-face trial: vitamin C side showed significant photoaging-score improvement at 12 weeks (cheeks P=0.006).
photoaging score
Dermatologic Surgery, 2002Review: support for topical vitamin C in collagen synthesis, photoprotection (adjunct, not a sunscreen) and pigmentation.
collagen synthesis, photoprotection, pigmentation
Dermatologic Surgery, 2005
Affiliation note. Publication links report the study authors and their affiliations. MIRU does not infer independence from an affiliation alone.
When to use it
Mornings, under sunscreen. Its antioxidant role suits daytime.
Where it sits
A morning serum step. After cleansing, under moisturiser and sunscreen.
- Cleanse
- Tone
- 3-O-Cetyl Ascorbic Acid
- Moisturise
- SPF
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Check an ingredient listCommon questions
What does 3‑O‑Cetyl Ascorbic Acid do for skin?
It offers the brightening and smoothing benefits of vitamin C but in a highly stable, slow‑release form. This can help give skin a more even look over time.
Is 3‑O‑Cetyl Ascorbic Acid good for dry skin?
Yes. Its lipid‑friendly structure helps it sit comfortably in richer formulas that suit dryness.
How is 3‑O‑Cetyl Ascorbic Acid used in routines?
It typically appears in serums or creams that focus on radiance and texture. Because it’s very stable, it tends to work well in both day and night products.
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