Serum Discoloration After Adding Antioxidant

Question

My serum formulation initially changed color over time. To prevent this, I added ActiveProtec OX, but it caused the serum to change color immediately. The active ingredients in my formula are Vitamin B3 (3.54%), Tranexamic Acid (1.98%), 4MSK (1.52%), and 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic acid (0.51%). What could be the reason for this immediate color change?

MySkinRecipes Expert · Accepted Answer

Serum Discoloration Issue with ActiveProtec OX

The immediate color change in your serum formulation upon adding ActiveProtec OX is likely caused by an incompatibility reaction between Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide) and 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic acid.

The product description for 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic acid explicitly states that it should not be used in formulas containing Vitamin B3.
Combining these two ingredients can lead to a chemical reaction that causes discoloration, typically a yellowing of the product.
ActiveProtec OX is an antioxidant designed to prevent oxidation and long-term color change, but it does not prevent incompatibility reactions between other ingredients.

To resolve this issue, you should avoid combining Vitamin B3 and 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic acid in the same formulation.