Packaging for Vitamin C Serum Stability
Question
What is the best packaging to maintain the stability of a 15% L-ascorbic acid serum at pH 3.5, which is sensitive to light, especially UV light? Specifically, how do opaque white plastic bottles compare to translucent amber plastic bottles in terms of UV protection? Are there other packaging or formulation methods to enhance stability?
Answer
Packaging for Vitamin C Serum
For a concentrated 15% L-ascorbic acid serum at pH 3.5, which is sensitive to light, especially UV light, the choice of packaging is important for maintaining stability and effectiveness.
Comparing translucent amber plastic bottles and opaque white plastic bottles:
- Opaque white bottles offer better protection against UV light compared to translucent amber bottles because they block more light from reaching the product.
- While amber bottles provide some UV filtering, they are not as effective as completely opaque packaging.
Therefore, an opaque white bottle is more suitable for a light-sensitive ingredient like L-ascorbic acid.
In addition to the bottle type, proper storage is crucial. Always store the serum in a place away from direct sunlight and heat. For products intended for retail sale, using an outer box provides an extra layer of protection against UV exposure.
Another option is to use specialized plastic bottles that have built-in UV protection, although these may be more expensive.
Furthermore, incorporating antioxidants like Protec™ OX and UV protectors like Protec™ UV into the serum formulation itself can significantly help to improve the stability of Vitamin C.
Relevant products include Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), Protec™ OX, and Protec™ UV.
Related Products Mentioned
Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) (Ultra-Fine)
Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) (Fine)
Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) (Standard)
ActiveProtec™ UV