Ingredients

Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate

Written by Reviewed by the SYNC editorial team Published Last reviewed Editorial standards

Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate — an oil-soluble, highly stable vitamin C derivative that penetrates the skin's lipid layers well and converts to active ascorbic acid, delivering antioxidant and brightening benefits. It is often used in anhydrous or oil-based formulas and is valued for its resistance to oxidation.

Key points

  • Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate (THD ascorbate) is fat-soluble, allowing it to blend easily into oils and rich emulsions.
  • Its stability makes it a popular choice for serums intended to have a longer shelf life.
  • Being lipophilic, it can absorb effectively without requiring the very low pH that L-ascorbic acid needs.
  • It is often studied for its potential to support collagen and a more even skin tone.

Frequently asked

Is tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate better than L-ascorbic acid?

It is more stable and less irritating, though the two are formulated differently, and effectiveness depends on the overall product and how your skin responds.

Does tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate feel greasy?

Because it is oil-soluble, it is usually delivered in oil-based products that can feel richer, though well-formulated serums typically absorb without a heavy residue.

Related topics

This is a foundational entry in the SYNC Skin Encyclopedia and is expanded over time. Educational information only — not medical advice.

Encyclopedia

Further reading

This entry was written and checked against the sources below. They are published by clinical and scientific bodies, they are listed most readable first, and each one opens in a new tab. They are background for the whole entry rather than footnotes to individual sentences.

  1. Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) as a Cosmeceutical to Increase Dermal Collagen for Skin Antiaging Purposes PubMed Central Peer-reviewed, open access pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  2. Topical Vitamin C and the Skin: Mechanisms of Action PubMed Central Peer-reviewed, open access pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  3. Vitamin C in dermatology PubMed Central Peer-reviewed, open access pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  4. A review of topical vitamin C derivatives and their efficacy PubMed Peer-reviewed (abstract) pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  5. Vitamin C NIH Office of Dietary Supplements Clinical guidance ods.od.nih.gov
  6. Vitamin C cream DermNet NZ Clinical guidance dermnetnz.org

SYNC does not publish medical advice. Nothing here replaces a consultation with a doctor or a pharmacist about your own skin.