Why Ethyl Ascorbic Acid and Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide) Should Not Be Used Together

It is generally not recommended to combine Ethyl Ascorbic Acid (a form of Vitamin C) and Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide) in the same cosmetic formulation. The primary reason is that these ingredients can react with each other, particularly at certain pH levels and temperatures.

Potential Effects of Combining Them

When Ethyl Ascorbic Acid and Niacinamide are combined, the reaction can lead to:

• Ingredient Degradation: The chemical reaction can cause both the Vitamin C derivative and Niacinamide to break down, reducing their stability and effectiveness over time.
• Reduced Efficacy: As the ingredients degrade, the overall performance of the product in delivering the intended benefits (like brightening, anti-aging, or barrier support) will be diminished.
• Potential for Irritation: In some cases, the reaction can produce Niacin (Nicotinic Acid), which is a form of Vitamin B3 that can cause skin flushing, redness, and irritation, especially in sensitive individuals or at higher concentrations.

To ensure the stability and efficacy of your formulation and minimize the risk of skin reactions, it is best to avoid combining Ethyl Ascorbic Acid and Niacinamide in the same product. If you wish to use both ingredients, consider using them in separate products applied at different times of the day (e.g., one in the morning, one in the evening) or formulating them in a way that keeps them stable, although this can be challenging.