Stable glycoside of ascorbic acid. Converted to vitamin C by alpha-glucosidase after skin penetration.
Topical application
CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus.
Stable vit C form, but requires β-glucosidase to convert to active ascorbic acid. Skin has minimal enzyme – conversion is poor. Popular in Japan, but limited clinical data on actual effect.
2–10%
Ascorbyl Glucoside (AA-2G) is a stable water-soluble form of vitamin C, an L-ascorbic acid conjugate with glucose. In the skin alpha-glucosidase gradually cleaves glucose to release active L-ascorbate. Where applied. Anti-aging serums and creams (1-5%), brightening products for hyperpigmentation, melasma, post-acne pigmentation. Often combined with niacinamide, ferulic acid, tocopherol. Popular in La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C, Vichy LiftActiv, Sesderma C-Vit. Advantages over L-ascorbic acid. Stable in aqueous environment at pH 5-7 (unlike L-ascorbate, which oxidizes within days). Non-irritating even in sensitive skin and rosacea. Causes no redness. However, the active effect is weaker – requires enzymatic activation in the epidermis, and effective L-ascorbate concentration in skin is lower. Evidence base. Studies (Yamamoto 2006, Hwang 2009) showed brightening and antioxidant effects of 2-5% ascorbyl glucoside over 8-12 weeks of use. Effect comparable to 10-15% L-ascorbic acid but without irritation. A safe alternative in couperose and rosacea. Safety. CIR confirmed safety. Hypoallergenic. Irritation is rare. Non-comedogenic. Systemic absorption is minimal. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Acceptable at any stage. Unlike L-ascorbic acid, does not photosensitize – can be used in the morning without mandatory SPF. Alternatives. Ethyl ascorbic acid (3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid) – stable lipid-soluble form with better bioavailability. Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate – lipid-soluble, for dry skin. Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate – stable, particularly at pH 7.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeThe Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Ascorbyl Glucoside is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Ascorbyl Glucoside suits: sensitive, dry, normal, combination.
Stable glycoside of ascorbic acid.
The INCI name is Ascorbyl Glucoside. It may also appear as: AA2G, Аскорбилглюкозид, Аскорбил глюкозид.
2–10%
Published: · updated:
Suitable for