What is the best vitamin C combination?

Ferulic acid and vitamin E stabilise L-ascorbic acid and raise its photoprotection.

Evidence

Source:: Lin FH et al. J Invest Dermatol. 2005;125(4):826-32
Applies to:: Formulations containing ascorbic acid
What this does not establish:: How a given product performs on your skin. Finished-product pH and concentration are rarely published, so this describes the chemistry, not a measurement of any specific product.
Last reviewed:: 2026-09-26

In practice

Combining L-ascorbic acid with ferulic acid and vitamin E is the well-studied stabilisation approach: it slows oxidation of the vitamin C and the combination has been shown to raise photoprotective performance beyond the individual ingredients. A formula going brown still indicates oxidation regardless of the combination.

Dermasift analyses skincare formulations against published cosmetic science. This is information, not medical advice — for a diagnosed skin condition, speak to a dermatologist.

Check this against a product’s ingredient list

What is the best vitamin C combination?

Ferulic acid and vitamin E stabilise L-ascorbic acid and raise its photoprotection.

Evidence

Source:: Lin FH et al. J Invest Dermatol. 2005;125(4):826-32
Applies to:: Formulations containing ascorbic acid
What this does not establish:: How a given product performs on your skin. Finished-product pH and concentration are rarely published, so this describes the chemistry, not a measurement of any specific product.
Last reviewed:: 2026-09-26

In practice

Dermasift analyses skincare formulations against published cosmetic science. This is information, not medical advice — for a diagnosed skin condition, speak to a dermatologist.

Check this against a product’s ingredient list