Ascorbyl Propyl Hyaluronate
Conjugate of vitamin C and hyaluronic acid via a propyl linker. Marketed as a «pro-C» molecule: more stable than free ascorbic acid, delivers vitamin C to skin via the hyaluronate fragment. Few independent RCTs, main evidence is manufacturer studies.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Promising stabilized vitamin C derivative. Good tolerance, including by sensitive skin. Independent clinical evidence is still limited; in head-to-head studies inferior to 10–20% L-ascorbic acid.
- CIR Cosmetic Ingredient Review safety assessment.
How to read tiers A–F
- CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Ascorbyl Propyl Hyaluronate (APH) is a conjugate of vitamin C and a hyaluronic acid fragment via a propyl linker. The molecule was designed as a 'pro-C' derivative with better stability than free L-ascorbic acid plus an extra hydration payload from the hyaluronate fragment. Claimed mechanism. Per the manufacturer, after application tissue enzymes hydrolyse the molecule, releasing ascorbic acid and a low molecular weight hyaluronate into the skin. The ascorbic acid acts as a prolyl hydroxylase cofactor and stimulates collagen synthesis; the hyaluronate holds moisture in the stratum corneum. Where applied. Anti-aging and brightening serums, Korean K-beauty (The Plant Base, Klairs), niche European brands. Concentration 0.5–2%. Rare in Spanish pharmacy lines, usually via premium K-beauty import channels. Evidence base. Few independent RCTs on PubMed; most data are manufacturer materials and in vitro keratinocyte work. Evidence does not match L-ascorbic acid 10% or THD ascorbate 3%. Safety. Irritation is rare, non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic. Topical systemic absorption is minimal. Pregnancy – safe topically. No direct lactation data, but the risk is purely theoretical. Realistic assessment. Chemically promising vitamin C derivative, but clinical data are still scarce. Buying for the 'pro-C effect' is premature: L-ascorbic 10–20% or THD ascorbate remain the gold standard.
Frequently asked questions
Is Ascorbyl Propyl Hyaluronate safe during pregnancy?
Ascorbyl Propyl Hyaluronate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Ascorbyl Propyl Hyaluronate for?
Ascorbyl Propyl Hyaluronate suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Ascorbyl Propyl Hyaluronate and what does it do in cosmetics?
Conjugate of vitamin C and hyaluronic acid via a propyl linker.
What's the INCI name for Ascorbyl Propyl Hyaluronate?
The INCI name is Ascorbyl Propyl Hyaluronate. It may also appear as: Vitamin C Hyaluronate Conjugate.
See Ascorbyl Propyl Hyaluronate in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni 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.
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