Vitamin C, or L-ascorbic acid, is a powerful antioxidant that has long been known for its beneficial effects on the skin. It is commonly used in skincare products to brighten the complexion, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and protect against environmental stressors like pollution and UV radiation. However, sodium ascorbyl phosphate (SAP), a stable derivative of vitamin C, is gaining popularity as a skincare ingredient.
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate is a key ingredient in several of our best-selling private label skin care formulations, so here's our top 5 reasons why we think it's the superior form of Vitamin C when it comes to skin care:
1. Stability
One of the biggest differences between SAP and L-ascorbic acid is their stability. L-ascorbic acid is notoriously unstable and breaks down quickly when exposed to air, light, and heat. This means that many skincare products containing L-ascorbic acid lose their effectiveness over time, and users need to be careful to store them properly. On the other hand, SAP is a stable form of vitamin C that is less likely to break down and lose its potency. This makes it a more reliable and effective ingredient in skincare products.
2. Penetration
Another advantage of SAP over L-ascorbic acid is its ability to penetrate the skin. L-ascorbic acid requires a low pH environment to penetrate the skin barrier, which can be irritating to some skin types. SAP, on the other hand, is water-soluble and can penetrate the skin at a higher pH level, making it a more gentle option for those with sensitive skin.
3. Antioxidant Properties
Both SAP and L-ascorbic acid have powerful antioxidant properties, which help to protect the skin against free radical damage. However, studies have shown that SAP may be more effective at reducing oxidative stress in the skin than L-ascorbic acid. This is because SAP is more stable and less likely to break down when exposed to environmental stressors.
4. Skin Brightening
One of the most well-known benefits of L-ascorbic acid in skincare is its ability to brighten the complexion and even out skin tone. SAP has been shown to have similar effects on the skin, but with the added benefit of being less likely to cause irritation or sensitivity. This makes SAP a great option for those with sensitive or reactive skin.
5. Collagen Production
Both SAP and L-ascorbic acid have been shown to promote collagen production in the skin. Collagen is a protein that is essential for healthy skin, bones, and tissues, and its production decreases as we age. By promoting collagen synthesis, SAP and L-ascorbic acid can help to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and promote a more youthful-looking complexion.
Conclusion
While both SAP and L-ascorbic acid have their benefits for the skin, SAP may be the better option for those looking for a stable, gentle, and effective form of vitamin C in their skincare routine. Its ability to penetrate the skin at a higher pH level, reduce oxidative stress, and promote collagen production make it a great choice for a wide range of skin types and concerns. However, if you have used L-ascorbic acid in the past with great results and are not experiencing any sensitivity or irritation, there is no need to switch to SAP. Ultimately, the choice between SAP and L-ascorbic acid comes down to personal preference and skin type.
Our Top 5 Best Sellers with Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate:
- Vitamin C Serum
- Advanced Hyaluronic Acid Serum
- Advanced Firming Eye Cream
- Peptide Face & Neck Firming Lotion
- Vitamin C Cleanser
Check out our complete Vitamin C line here or get in touch with one of our Project Consultants to learn more about our best selling private label skin care products!