In a world where skincare often shouts, we are drawn to the quiet achievers. This is especially true for antioxidants, the unsung heroes that work beneath the surface. Among them, Vitamin C reigns supreme for its brightening and protective prowess. Yet, its most potent form, L-Ascorbic Acid, is notoriously fragile—a brilliant but temperamental genius.
This is why, for DEKÁRNÉ, the choice was never just about Vitamin C. It was about intelligent fidelity. We sought a form that could deliver on the timeless promise of Vitamin C—helping to even the look of skin tone, defend against visible environmental stress, and promote a radiant appearance—but through a more stable, gentle, and reliable character.
Enter 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, the quiet cornerstone of our elixir.
The Ethyl Advantage: A Study in Stability
The "ethyl" in its name is key. This small, ethical modification creates a molecule that is inherently more resilient against the two great underminers of Vitamin C: light and air (oxidation). Where traditional L-Ascorbic Acid can degrade rapidly, losing its potency and often discoloring, the ethylated form remains steadfast. This means every drop from our opaque, airless vessel delivers the consistent potency we intended.
Gentleness as a Prerequisite
True luxury skincare should not announce itself with irritation. A significant challenge with pure L-Ascorbic Acid is that it requires a highly acidic pH to be effective, which can cause stinging or redness for many. Ethylated Vitamin C, however, is effective at a pH level much closer to skin's natural balance. This allows us to formulate within a skin-comfortable pH range of 5.5-6.0, making the antioxidant experience a soothing one, even for reactive skin.
The Silent Work of Illumination
What does this stable, gentle molecule do? Its work is a quiet unveiling. By helping to inhibit the enzyme responsible for melanin production, it can gently guide skin toward a more even, luminous tone. Concurrently, as a potent antioxidant, it helps neutralize free radicals—unstable molecules generated by UV exposure and pollution that can contribute to the visible signs of stress in the skin.
In our elixir, it is never alone. It is presented within our gold-standard antioxidant matrix, paired with Ferulic Acid and pure Vitamin E. This celebrated synergy not only boosts its protective efficacy but further stabilizes it, a testament to our architectural approach where every ingredient supports another.
The DEKÁRNÉ Choice
We chose Ethylated Vitamin C not as a mere alternative, but as the precise instrument for our philosophy. It aligns with our belief that the most profound results come from consistent, gentle care. It reflects our commitment to integrity—offering a potent active in a form that prioritizes both stability for the formula and tolerance for the skin.
It is, in essence, the quiet science behind a more radiant, resilient appearance.
Explore this intentional synergy in The Ethyl C + Ferulic Elixir