Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
An oil-soluble, highly stable Vitamin C ester that penetrates the skin's lipid barrier efficiently. THD does not require a low pH to work, so formulas are typically much gentler than L-Ascorbic Acid while still showing solid brightening results in studies.
Typical concentration
5–20%
Formulation pH
Flexible, works across a wide pH range
What THD is used for
- Excellent stability — long shelf life, resists oxidation
- Penetrates the lipid barrier well due to oil solubility
- Fewer formulation restrictions (pH-flexible)
Stability
Highly stable — among the most shelf-stable Vitamin C forms, tolerates normal storage conditions well.
Advantages
- Very stable
- Gentle, low-irritation
- Good for dry/mature skin due to oil solubility
Limitations
- Premium ingredient — pushes up product price
- Slightly less brightening data than pure L-Ascorbic Acid
Commonly paired with
Use with care alongside
How THD compares with other vitamin C forms
| Form | Typical concentration | pH |
|---|---|---|
| L-Ascorbic Acid | 8–20% (10–15% is the effective, well-tolerated sweet spot for most skin types) | Below 3.5 for optimal skin penetration |
| Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate | 5–15% | 6–7 (near neutral) |
| Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate | 3–10% | 6–7 |
| Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate | 5–20% | Flexible, works across a wide pH range |
| Ascorbyl Glucoside | 10–25% | 5–7 |
| 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid | Retail serums commonly list 10–15%. There is no well-established optimum from independent clinical studies, and percentages are not directly comparable with L-ascorbic acid. | Does not need the very low pH that L-ascorbic acid does; formulas are usually mildly acidic |
Serums using Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
No published serum in our database currently lists Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate as its vitamin C form. Browse all serums.
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate: quick answers
+What is Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate?
An oil-soluble, highly stable Vitamin C ester that penetrates the skin's lipid barrier efficiently. THD does not require a low pH to work, so formulas are typically much gentler than L-Ascorbic Acid while still showing solid brightening results in studies.
+What concentration of Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate is typical?
5–20%
+What pH does Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate need?
Flexible, works across a wide pH range
+How stable is Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate?
Highly stable — among the most shelf-stable Vitamin C forms, tolerates normal storage conditions well.
Who it may suit
Related guides
Sources
- Al-Niaimi F, Chiang NYZ. Topical Vitamin C and the Skin: Mechanisms of Action and Clinical Applications. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol, 2017.
- Telang PS. Vitamin C in dermatology. Indian Dermatology Online Journal, 2013.
- Pinnell SR et al. Topical L-ascorbic acid: percutaneous absorption studies. Dermatologic Surgery, 2001.
We are not dermatologists and this page has not been medically reviewed. It is for information only — consult a qualified professional before making decisions about your skin.