Product Overview
3-O-Ethyl ascorbic acid is a water-soluble ethyl ether of L-ascorbic acid, formed by substituting the hydroxyl group at the 3-position of the lactone ring with an ethyl group. The modification blocks the primary site of oxidative degradation while retaining water solubility, which makes the molecule practical in aqueous serums and essences where plain L-ascorbic acid would discolour quickly.
Key Features
- Water-soluble – compatible with aqueous serums, essences and gels
- Markedly more colour-stable than L-ascorbic acid in aqueous formulation
- White crystalline powder; easy to weigh and dissolve
- Works across a broader formulation pH window than L-ascorbic acid
- Suitable for clear, low-viscosity formats
- Bulk supply with purity and solution-colour documentation on request
How It Works
- Ethyl blocking of the 3-hydroxyl – protects the most oxidation-sensitive position, which is the main reason aqueous systems stay colourless longer.
- Reported conversion in skin – the ether is described in the literature as being converted to ascorbic acid in skin; conversion efficiency is formulation- and skin-dependent and must be supported by your own data.
- pH window – commonly formulated in the mildly acidic range; confirm the optimum for your system, because the ether is not pH-independent.
- Colour as a stability indicator – yellowing of the bulk solution signals degradation; monitor absorbance during accelerated storage.
Typical Applications
- Brightening and tone-evening serums
- Essences and toners
- Ampoules and single-dose formats
- Gels and gel-creams
- Emulsions where a water-phase vitamin C is preferred
- Men’s grooming and post-shave products
Key Specifications
| INCI Name | 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 86404-04-8 |
| Molecular Formula | C8H12O6 |
| Molecular Weight | 204.18 g/mol |
| Appearance | White to off-white crystalline powder |
| Assay / Purity | Available on request |
| pH of Aqueous Solution | Available on request |
| Loss on Drying | Available on request |
| Heavy Metals | Available on request |
| Packaging | Available on request |
| MOQ | Available on request |
Storage & Handling
Hygroscopic. Store in a tightly closed container in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture. Prepare aqueous stock solutions freshly; solutions are less stable than the dry powder and should be protected from light and metal-ion contamination.
Why Choose VeraVitabio
- Bulk B2B supply — flexible MOQ from sample kits to full production quantities
- Full documentation — COA, MSDS, and specification sheets available on request
- OEM / ODM support — finished capsule, tablet, powder, and private-label development
- US & EU market experience — documentation support for importers and brand owners
- Stable supply chain — vetted manufacturing partners with batch-level traceability
Request a Quote — Looking to source 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid for your next formulation? Send your specification and target volume to info@veravitabio.com or WhatsApp +86 157 7194 0528. Samples and full documentation are available for qualified B2B buyers. Web: veravitabio.com
Need pricing, a sample or full documentation?
Send your specification, target volume and destination country — our team replies within one business day.
For cosmetic and personal care formulation use. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Specifications shown are for general reference; full Certificate of Analysis and supporting documentation are available upon request. Formulators are responsible for confirming permitted use levels and claim language in their target markets.
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