Cosmetics · Quasi-drug actives
3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
3-O-エチルアスコルビン酸 (3-O-Echiru asukorubin-san)
Also known as: Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
At a glance
| Category | Cosmetics |
|---|---|
| INCI name | 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid |
| Japanese labeling name | 3-O-エチルアスコルビン酸 |
| Common Japanese notations | 3-O-エチルアスコルビン酸 |
| CAS number | 86404-04-8 |
| Origin | Synthetic (vitamin C derivative) |
| Typical functions | Antioxidant, Skin brightening, Skin conditioning |
| Regulatory status in Japan | Cosmetic ingredient listed in the JSCI labeling name dictionary. |
3-O-Ethyl ascorbic acid is a more recent vitamin C derivative that has gained significant use in Japanese and broader Asian skincare. The ethyl ether at the C3 position improves stability and lipophilicity over free ascorbic acid while preserving in vivo conversion to active vitamin C.
Classification
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Product applications
Functions
Regulatory tags
Origin
Used in (typical product categories)
Finished-product categories that commonly include this ingredient in Japanese-market formulations.
- Brightening serums and essences
- Anti-aging skincare
- Spot-care products
What it is
3-O-Ethyl ascorbic acid is the C3 ethyl ether of L-ascorbic acid. Its lipophilicity makes it suitable for both water- and oil-based formulations.
Typical uses in Japanese products
In Japanese and Asian cosmetics, 3-O-ethyl ascorbic acid appears in brightening serums, essences, and anti-aging skincare positioning around vitamin C narratives.
Regulatory classification in Japan
Cosmetic use is permitted under the JSCI dictionary.
Regulatory classification in other markets
| EU | Listed in CosIng. Permitted for cosmetic use. |
|---|---|
| USA | INCI recognized. |
| China | Permitted per IECIC listings. |
| Korea | Widely used in Korean skincare. Permitted under KFDA / MFDS. |
Example products
Example finished products will be added after each product's current full ingredient list has been verified.
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Related ingredients
References
- JSCI labeling name directory — 3-O-エチルアスコルビン酸
- EU CosIng entry: Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
Last updated: 2026-04-22. Ingredient entries are reviewed at least annually against current regulatory listings.