The Ordinary Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12%, Vitamin C Serum - 1 fl oz - Ulta Beauty: Oil-Free, Vegan, Alcohol-Free, For Normal Skin
The OrdinaryAnalysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This serum contains beneficial ingredients like Ascorbyl Glucoside, which is a stable form of Vitamin C known for its antioxidant properties and skin-brightening effects. However, the presence of Triethanolamine, which can cause skin irritation and has potential contamination concerns, affects the overall safety profile. The product is moderately processed, which also influences its rating.
Key ingredients 12
Ascorbyl GlucosideVery Good
Ascorbyl Glucoside is a stable form of Vitamin C used in skincare for its antioxidant properties. It helps brighten the skin and reduce signs of aging. It is well-regarded for its ability to improve skin texture and tone.
Risks
There is a minimal risk of irritation for very sensitive skin types.
Benefits
It provides antioxidant protection, brightens the skin, and supports collagen production.
Aqua (Water)Neutral
Aqua is commonly used as a solvent in cosmetic formulations. It helps dissolve other ingredients and provides a base for the product. It is generally considered safe and non-reactive.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with water in cosmetic formulations.
Benefits
Water acts as a carrier for active ingredients, allowing them to be absorbed by the skin.
PropanediolNeutral
Propanediol is a glycol used as a solvent and skin-conditioning agent. It enhances the absorption of other ingredients and provides a smooth texture. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
Some individuals may experience mild irritation or allergic reactions.
Benefits
It helps improve the texture of the product and enhances the penetration of active ingredients.
Isoceteth-20Neutral
Isoceteth-20 is a polyethylene glycol ether used as an emulsifier and surfactant. It helps blend oil and water-based ingredients. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
May cause irritation in sensitive individuals, especially if used in high concentrations.
Benefits
It improves the texture and consistency of cosmetic products.
Xanthan GumNeutral
Xanthan Gum is a natural thickening agent used to stabilize and thicken formulations. It is derived from fermented sugars and is widely used in cosmetics. It is considered safe and non-irritating.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with its use, though it can cause slight irritation in very sensitive skin.
Benefits
It helps stabilize and thicken products, improving their texture and application.
Dimethyl IsosorbideNeutral
Dimethyl Isosorbide is used as a solvent to enhance the delivery of active ingredients. It helps improve the penetration of ingredients into the skin. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive skin types.
Benefits
It enhances the efficacy of active ingredients by improving their penetration.
EthoxydiglycolNeutral
Ethoxydiglycol is a solvent used to improve the texture and absorption of cosmetic products. It is known for its ability to dissolve both water-soluble and oil-soluble ingredients. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
Potential for mild irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It enhances the absorption and efficacy of active ingredients in formulations.
Trisodium Ethylenediamine DisuccinateNeutral
Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate is a chelating agent used to stabilize formulations by binding metal ions. It helps prevent the degradation of cosmetic products. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with its use in cosmetics.
Benefits
It stabilizes formulations and enhances the shelf life of products.
1,2-HexanediolNeutral
1,2-Hexanediol is used as a solvent and preservative in cosmetic formulations. It helps improve the texture and stability of products. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive skin types.
Benefits
It acts as a preservative and enhances the texture of cosmetic products.
Caprylyl GlycolNeutral
Caprylyl Glycol is used as a skin-conditioning agent and preservative booster. It helps improve the moisture content of the skin and enhances the efficacy of preservatives. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with its use, though it can cause slight irritation in very sensitive skin.
Benefits
It enhances skin hydration and boosts the effectiveness of preservatives.
Aminomethyl PropanolBad
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
Risks
High concentrations can cause skin irritation, but it is typically used in safe amounts.
Benefits
It helps maintain the stability and efficacy of the product by balancing pH levels.
TriethanolamineBad
Triethanolamine is used as a pH balancer and emulsifier in cosmetics. It can cause skin irritation and has potential contamination concerns with nitrosamines. It is generally used in low concentrations to minimize risks.
Risks
Potential for skin irritation and contamination with carcinogenic nitrosamines.
Benefits
It helps stabilize emulsions and adjust pH levels in formulations.
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