Glow Definition
Ascorbic acid is the chemically pure, water-soluble form of Vitamin C used in many skincare formulas. It’s often found in brightening serums, and is known for its ability to interact with the skin’s surface in glow-supportive ways. Because it’s known to be highly unstable in the presence of air, light, or heat, formulations containing ascorbic acid often come in tinted or airtight packaging to help preserve its activity.
In the glow space, ascorbic acid is recognized for how it supports radiance-enhancing routines — particularly when used in morning regimens layered under SPF. While it’s only one type of vitamin C derivative, its direct form is often chosen by those looking for a more concentrated ingredient experience. It’s also typically paired with other antioxidants or hydration-supportive ingredients to round out daily routines.
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Why It Matters
Ascorbic acid in skincare plays a foundational role in many glow routines — especially in the morning, when it’s often layered underneath sunscreen to help support the skin’s visible clarity and tone. Because it’s water-soluble, it tends to appear in lightweight serums that absorb quickly and layer well with other essentials like moisturizers or squalane.
Its potency also makes it a standout in routines that focus on consistency. Unlike some gentler vitamin C derivatives, ascorbic acid doesn’t need to be converted by the skin — which means it’s often chosen when someone wants to build a routine around fewer, more intentional actives. Still, its strength makes formulation quality and product freshness especially important when incorporating it.
GLOW TIP Apply ascorbic acid serums on clean, dry skin in the morning — and follow with SPF to keep your glow routine intentional from the first layer to the last.
Why We Love It For Glow
Ascorbic acid brings an immediate sense of clarity to any glow routine — not just in what it does, but how it feels. Its brightening effect has made it a long-standing staple for those refining tone, while its potent role in antioxidant support helps set the tone for protection and polish.
We appreciate how this form of vitamin C can be both targeted and foundational. Whether used to prep for a bare-skin day or layered under moisturizer in a full skincare lineup, it brings intention to routines that prioritize balance, radiance, and longevity.
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REACH FOR Paula’s Choice BOOST C15 Super Booster — a silky, lightweight vitamin C serum that layers easily without pilling.
This 15% ascorbic acid formula blends in seamlessly and plays well with moisturizers or SPF, making it an easy add-on for morning glow routines.
FAQ
What is the difference between vitamin C and ascorbic acid in skincare?
Ascorbic acid is the purest and most researched form of vitamin C used in skincare. While “vitamin C” can refer to several derivatives, ascorbic acid is known for its direct, potent formulation — often chosen for those seeking a more immediate brightening or glow-boosting effect.
How should I layer ascorbic acid in my glow routine?
Ascorbic acid in skincare is best applied on clean, dry skin — typically after cleansing and before heavier serums or moisturizers. Because it’s water-based and pH-sensitive, it works well as a first step in your morning glow lineup, especially when followed by SPF to help round out your protection routine. Avoid pairing it with strong exfoliants or other low-pH actives in the same layer.
Is ascorbic acid suitable for sensitive skin?
Ascorbic acid can be too strong for some sensitive skin types due to its low pH and potency. If you’re new to it, start with a lower percentage (around 10%) and use it a few times a week to assess tolerance. For those who find it too irritating, gentler vitamin C derivatives might be a better fit for maintaining a glow-focused routine.