Antioxidant

L Ascorbic Acid

Antioxidant; ROS scavenger; vitamin E regenerator; melanogenesis inhibitor; collagen synthesis stimulator; anti-pollution active; HEV-induced ROS quencher
Limited Data
Insufficient safety data available. Consider enriching this ingredient.
Details

Description

Antioxidant; ROS scavenger; vitamin E regenerator; melanogenesis inhibitor; collagen synthesis stimulator; anti-pollution active; HEV-induced ROS quencher

Purpose

Function

Antioxidant; ROS scavenger; vitamin E regenerator; melanogenesis inhibitor; collagen synthesis stimulator; anti-pollution active; HEV-induced ROS quencher
Profile

Properties

Silicone
Silicone free
Compliance

Regulatory Status

EU
Permitted
Safety
EXCELLENT
US
Permitted
Absorptionmoderate
Sensitizationnone
MoSadequate
NOAEL1000 mg/kg
ConcernNone
Verdict

CIR safe as used twice (2005 L-AA group and 2022 ethers/esters update). US GRAS food and unrestricted cosmetic. EU unrestricted - not restricted by EU 2024/996. pH below 3.5 critical for L-AA stability. Pro-oxidant risk with Cu2+ and Fe3+ metal ions. Oxidation visible as colorless to yellow to brown. NTP 2-year study showed no carcinogenicity. Non-sensitizing with negative RIPT. Five derivatives have superior stability. COSMOS approved for natural and fermentation sources.

US Note

GRAS for food (preservative, nutrient). Not restricted in cosmetics under MoCRA. No OTC monograph listing.

Assessment

Ratings

Comedogenic2/5
LowHigh
Irritancy1/5
LowHigh
Reference

Identifiers

Category
Antioxidant
Updated
Apr 23, 2026

No registry identifiers available for this ingredient.