Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) is notorious for degrading at a very quick rate.
Ascorbyl Glucoside is a stable bioactive Ascorbic Acid derivative. It’s still Ascorbic Acid, but with Glucose binded to its second carbon which stabilises the Ascorbic Acid. This means that the Ascorbic Acid doesn’t degrade as readily as when it is unbinded
It remains in its stable condition until it is applied on the skin. When applied to the skin, it undergoes hydrolysis by α-Glucosidase (an enzyme presentin the human epidermis). Essentially this means that it splits into Ascorbic Acid and Glucose. The Glucose stays on top of the skin where it acts as a humectant. The Ascorbic Acid molecules are small enough to penetrate the stratum corneum (outer most layer of the skin) where it can get to work.
Benefits:
Anti-ageing effect – Stimulates collagen production, has a keratolytic effect (the softening and shedding of the horny outer layer of the skin) which promotes cell turnover (meaning new skin cells surfaces quicker revealing “new” skin sooner), this helps to decrease the visible signs of ageing.
