Common Name(s): Ascorbyl nicotinate,ascorbyl nicotinate,ester of vitamin c and niacin,dual active vitamin conjugate

CAS Number: N/a

DESCRIPTION

What It Does: Provides vitamin c antioxidant protection and collagen synthesis stimulation alongside nicotinic acid-mediated skin flushing vasodilation — two independent vitamin mechanisms from the enzymatic hydrolysis of the single ester molecule.

Why It's Used: Ascorbyl nicotinate delivers two cosmetically active vitamins from one stable precursor — the ester bond protecting ascorbic acid from rapid oxidative degradation while the nicotinate moiety provides warm flushing enhancing product perception of efficacy.

How It Works: Esterase hydrolysis in skin releases free ascorbic acid (collagen prolyl hydroxylase cofactor → col1a1 upregulation; melanin synthesis inhibition via tyrosinase copper reduction) and nicotinic acid (prostaglandin d2-mediated capillary vasodilation → visible skin flushing enhancing perceived efficacy). the ester provides improved stability versus free ascorbic acid (no c2-oh auto-oxidation site).

Typically Found In: Anti-aging,brightening,circulation products

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Primary Category: Active ingredient – antioxidant

Secondary Functions: Free radical scavenging,anti-aging

Application Areas:

Typical Concentration Range: 0.1%–2%

SOURCING & ETHICS

Vegan Status: Yes

Halal Status: Yes

Source Notes: Plant-derived extract or synthetic.

SKIN COMPATIBILITY

Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low

Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 – non-comedogenic

Sensitivity Concerns: Non-irritating; well-tolerated.

Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes

SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY

Safety Profile: Excellent safety profile. ewg score: 1.

Works Well With: Vitamin c,vitamin e,ferulic acid,spf,other antioxidants

Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities

SCIENTIFIC NOTE

The nicotinate-mediated flushing provides a sensory confirmation of activity that pure vitamin c formulations lack — the visible redness from vasodilation provides consumer feedback supporting product efficacy perception.

Last Verified: 2026-03-22

Primary Sources: Cosing database,ascorbyl nicotinate dual vitamin c b3 ester review