Ascorbyl Glucoside (AG) is a water-soluble vitamin C derivative formed by combining ascorbic acid with glucose. This modification enhances its stability and reduces potential skin irritation compared to pure ascorbic acid [1].

Formulation Advantages & Skin Benefits

Scientific studies highlight the following distinct advantages of AG:​

• Enhanced Stability: Ascorbyl Glucoside (AG) exhibits improved stability compared to ascorbic acid, especially in aqueous solutions. According to a review of vitamin C derivatives, the conjugation of glucose at the 2nd position protects the ascorbic acid structure from degradation triggered by pH, temperature, and metal ions. Studies have shown AG retains its stability at elevated temperatures and at pH 6.4, unlike ascorbic acid, which is highly unstable and rapidly oxidizes under similar conditions [2]. ​

• Reduced Skin Irritation: AG is significantly less irritating than L-ascorbic acid. Clinical evaluations, including human repeat insult patch tests (HRIPT), have shown that AG-containing formulations do not induce skin sensitization or irritation, even at concentrations up to 10% [1].

Safety and Tolerability

AG is well-tolerated and considered safe for use in cosmetic products. It has demonstrated no dermal irritation in animal models following topical application, no sensitization or allergic responses in human clinical studies, and no genotoxicity in standard in vitro and in vivo assays [1].

Conclusion

Ascorbyl Glucoside is a stable and water-soluble vitamin C derivative that offers clear advantages over ascorbic acid in terms of formulation stability and skin tolerability. Its compatibility with a neutral pH level and low irritation potential make it especially suitable for sensitive skin formulations, while delivering the antioxidant benefits of vitamin C.

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References

1. Johnson, W. Jr., et al. (2024). Safety assessment of ascorbyl glucoside and sodium ascorbyl glucoside as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 44(Supplement 1), 5S–16S.
   https://cir-reports.cir-safety.org/view-attachment/?id=3db8c16b-406c-8081-890e-1a57001b130c

2. Oormila Sasidharan et al. A Review of Clinical Efficacy of Topical Vitamin C and Its Derivatives. Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, 2023; 7(2): 20-26. (PDF) A Review of Clinical Efficacy of Topical Vitamin C and Its Derivatives