Different Forms of Vitamin C - Vitamin C comes in a variety of forms and derivatives.

L-Ascorbic Acid (LAA)? This is vitamin C in its most potent form, and LAA has the most research backing it to show effectiveness. However, it’s less stable than other forms and can cause skin irritations in high doses. If you try it, and your skin is cool with it, then this is your best bet for results.

Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate? This water-soluble derivative of vitamin C is more stable (meaning it won’t degrade as quickly as other forms). It also causes less skin irritation, so this is the best form if you have sensitive or dry skin.

Best for: dry or sensitive skin

Ascorbyl Palmitate? This is a more stable form of vitamin C and is commonly used in oil-based skincare formulas. While it’s not as potent as other forms, its power move is fighting free radical damage to protect against signs of aging and repairing skin.

Best for: repairing free radical damage

Ascorbic Glucosamine? This is a water-soluble derivative of vitamin C. It’s often used for its antioxidant and skin-brightening properties, although more research is needed on its actual effectiveness.

Best for: hyperpigmentation

Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate? This is the newest member of the vitamin C family. It’s more stable than the other members, and its fat-soluble makeup makes it easier to penetrate into deep layers of skin.

Best for: general skin treatment

Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate? A stable, water-soluble derivative, this form of vitamin C is gentle on skin and converts to ascorbic acid after it’s absorbed. It effectively brightens skin and battles free radical damage with antioxidants. I’ve personally chosen this form of vitamin C in my own moisturizer formula.

Best for: brightening and fighting free radical damage