Vitamin C and THD Ascorbate: What They Are and Why They Matter for Your Skin
Vitamin C is one of the most trusted and researched ingredients in skincare. But not all vitamin C is the same. To understand why Suhu uses tetrahexydecyl ascorbate (THD Ascorbate), it helps to start with the basics.
What is Vitamin C?
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is an essential nutrient and a powerful antioxidant. In the body, it plays a critical role in supporting collagen production, neutralizing free radicals, and repairing tissues. (study)
When applied topically, vitamin C can:
Brighten the complexion by slowing down excess melanin production. (study)
Protect against environmental stressors like pollution and UV damage. (study)
Support collagen synthesis, which helps skin remain firm and smooth. (study)
This makes Vitamin C a cornerstone ingredient for anyone looking to maintain healthy, resilient skin.
The Challenge with Pure Vitamin C
Pure vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) is water-soluble and unstable. It oxidizes quickly when exposed to light, air, or changes in pH, which means it can lose effectiveness before you even finish the bottle. High concentrations also require very low pH levels to penetrate the skin, which often causes redness, stinging, or dryness.
In short: while vitamin C works, the traditional form is difficult to keep potent and gentle.
What is THD Ascorbate?
Tetrahexydecyl ascorbate (THD Ascorbate) is a modern, oil-soluble derivative of vitamin C. It is created by combining vitamin C with a natural fatty acid. This modification makes it more stable and easier for your skin to absorb. (study)
Unlike water-soluble ascorbic acid, THD Ascorbate:
Stays potent longer. It resists oxidation, so the product remains effective over time.
Absorbs more easily. Being lipid-soluble, it passes through the skin’s natural oils and penetrates deeper layers.
Is gentler on skin. Because it does not require low pH to function, it avoids the irritation that many people experience with traditional vitamin C. (study)
How THD Ascorbate Benefits Skin Health
Research shows that THD Ascorbate offers the same core benefits as Vitamin C but in a more user-friendly way. Just like traditional vitamin C, THD Ascorbate brightens the skin by slowing excess pigment production, protects skin from environmental damage, and stimulates collagen production. In addition, THD Ascorbate is suitable for sensitive skin, with fewer reports of irritation. (study)
Suhu’s Take
Vitamin C is essential for skin health, but the form matters. Traditional water-based serums can be unstable and irritating. Oil-soluble THD Ascorbate delivers all the protective, brightening, and firming benefits in a stable, gentle formula that works for everyday skincare.
This is why Suhu chose THD Ascorbate for our Vitamin C Serum. Because science should make skincare simpler, not more complicated.
