3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid (EAA)
CAS Number: 86404-04-8
3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid (EAA) is an ether derivative of ascorbic acid where the hydroxyl group at the C-3 position is protected by an ethyl group, delivering superior chemical stability in both aqueous and oil phases compared to L-ascorbic acid. It penetrates the stratum corneum effectively and is cleaved intracellularly to release free ascorbic acid, providing potent tyrosinase inhibition approximately twice that of kojic acid. Used at 0.5–3% in brightening formulations, it remains color-stable throughout the product's shelf life.
Technical Specifications
| purity | ≥98.0% (HPLC) |
| storage | Sealed container, cool and dry; stable 2 years at room temperature |
| appearance | White to off-white crystalline powder |
| heavy metals | <10 ppm |
| loss on drying | ≤1.0% |
| pH (2% aqueous) | 4.5–6.5 |
| recommended dosage | 0.5–3.0% |
Applications
- High-performance vitamin C brightening serums
- Stable whitening ampoules and concentrates
- Day creams with combined antioxidant and UV defense
- Combination formulas with tranexamic acid or niacinamide
- Anti-aging creams targeting uneven skin tone and fine lines
Key Features
- 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid (EAA) provides tyrosinase inhibition approximately 2× stronger than kojic acid
- Stable in both water and oil phases — no yellowing, formulation-friendly across pH and temperature ranges
- Effectively penetrates stratum corneum and converts to free ascorbic acid intracellularly
- Compatible with niacinamide, peptides, and AHA/BHA actives without the instability issues of L-ascorbic acid
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CAS Number
86404-04-8
Category
Anti-Aging Cosmetic ActivesAvailability
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