* A Vitamin C derivative

* Please read TIA's post on What Is It: Vitamin C Derivatives

Functions:

There is a lack of information available regarding Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate because it is a relatively new derivative of Vitamin C being used in skin care products. However, it is considered to be a very stable precursor of Vitamin C that is able to liberate the powerful antioxidant in the skin ( ScienceLab.com). Although Ascorbic Acid can be an irritant and actually cause acne, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate is considered gentle and stable and waits to convert into Ascorbic Acid once it is absorbed. Therefore, it is thought to be a powerful antioxidant that can treat acne on the surface and even stimulate collagen, according to RealSelf.com. It also has skin-whitening abilities ( Beijing Brilliance Biochemical).

Safety Measures/Side Effects:

The Cosmetics Database finds Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate to be a 99% safe ingredient and notes only data gaps as a concern. Although Vitamin C can be an irritant, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate is considered safe and stable. However, studies done in Australia by the National Industrial Chemicals Notification Scheme found that it should only be used in concentrations up to 5% in most formulas, and up to .1% in sunscreens because it was found to be a moderate irritant and sensitizer in rabbit skin, as well as an eye irritant.

Recommended Products w/ Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate:

Kat Burki Hibiscus Antioxidant Face Mask ($78 in the shop); Sweetsation Lumi*Essence Body Organic Advanced Brightening Repair Treatment ($48 in the shop); BRAD Biophotonic Ultra Elastin Sculpting Firming Cream Complex  ($195 in the shop); MD Solar Sciences Evening Facial Repair Serum ($96); M.A.D Skincare Radiant Brightening Mask ($38); Stemulation Facial Serum ($135)

As much as possible, products in the Truth In Aging shop are chosen for their safety profile as well as effectiveness.