Active ingredient

2-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid

INCI: 3-O-ETHYL ASCORBIC ACID

An ether derivative of L-ascorbic acid in which the 3-OH position is protected by an ethyl group, making it stable in water-based formulas. Converts to Vitamin C inside skin cells. Used widely in Japanese brightening products (Shiseido, Elixir) as a quasi-drug-adjacent brightening active.

Also known as: ethyl ascorbic acid, 2-O-ethylascorbic acid, 3-O-ethyl ascorbic acid, ethylated vitamin C

antioxidantskin-brighteningcollagen-synthesis

Benefits

  • Stable Vitamin C derivative that brightens skin and evens tone
  • Promotes collagen synthesis
  • Less irritating than L-ascorbic acid at equivalent concentration

Watch for

  • May cause mild tingling on sensitive skin at high concentrations

Compatibility

✓ Works well with
+ Niacinamide+ Tocopherol+ Tranexamic Acid
At a glance
CategoryActive
IrritancyModerate–high
Beginner-friendlyYes
In your routine

Pairs well with Niacinamide and Tocopherol and others.

Found in 24 products
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Products with 2-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid

Crystal Retinal 3 Stable Vitamin ASerum
Medik8
Crystal Retinal 3 Stable Vitamin A
Brightening Pore SerumSerum
Innisfree
Brightening Pore Serum
Yuja Niacin Blemish Care SerumSerum
Some By Mi
Yuja Niacin Blemish Care Serum
Gentle Vitamin C SerumSerum
Dr. Althea
Gentle Vitamin C Serum
All Day Vitamin Brightening & Balancing Facial SerumSerum
Jumiso
All Day Vitamin Brightening & Balancing Facial Serum
No.5 Vitamin Concentrated SerumSerum
Numbuzin
No.5 Vitamin Concentrated Serum