Where to Get Vitamin C: Production and Applications in Cosmetics
Carolina Colvée / 26 February 2026
Where to Get Vitamin C: Production and Applications in Cosmetics
Vitamin C is one of the most valued and versatile active ingredients in cosmetics due to its visible efficacy and natural origin. This powerful antioxidant helps improve radiance, reduce dark spots and stimulate collagen synthesis, making it an essential ingredient in anti-aging treatments and skincare products. However, its formulation presents significant challenges: it is an unstable molecule when exposed to light, oxygen and heat. This is where biotechnology comes into play, offering sustainable and high-performance solutions to obtain active ingredients with greater stability, bioavailability and traceability. In this article we explore its benefits, the biotechnological methods used to obtain it and its role in the sustainability of the sector.
Why cosmetics with vitamin C are key in the sector
Cosmetics with vitamin C respond to the trends of natural cosmetics and clean beauty, where consumers seek safe, sustainable and, above all, effective ingredients.
It holds a prominent position in the market due to its combination of visible results and scientific backing. Its role in protecting the skin against oxidative stress and stimulating collagen makes it an essential active ingredient for multiple cosmetic applications:
Antioxidant action: neutralizes free radicals and protects against UV radiation and pollution.
Anti-aging effect: stimulates collagen synthesis, improving firmness and elasticity.
Depigmenting effect: helps even out skin tone and reduce dark spots.
Natural radiance boost: enhances vitality and the healthy appearance of the face.
Biotechnological production of cosmetics with vitamin C and derivatives
The conventional production of vitamin C through chemical synthesis is progressively being replaced by more sustainable and selective biotechnological routes. These new approaches make it possible to obtain L-ascorbic acid and its functional derivatives through fermentations and enzymatic biotransformations. Performance is validated through functional assays in in vitro and ex vivo models, and is accompanied by pilot to pre-industrial scale-up to ensure transferability and consistency before launch.
Controlled microbial fermentation
This method uses genetically modified microorganisms, such as strains of Gluconobacter oxydans or Ketogulonicigenium vulgare, to transform glucose into ascorbic acid. It is a clean process with lower environmental impact than traditional chemical synthesis and enables large-scale production with high purity.
Specific enzymatic processes
Through the use of specific enzymes, the conversion of plant precursors into vitamin C or its derivatives (such as sodium ascorbate or ascorbyl glucoside) is achieved. These processes allow greater selectivity, reduce waste and improve the stability of the final product.
Upcycling of plant by-products
An emerging trend is the use of agricultural residues rich in vitamin C, such as citrus fruit peels, to extract the active ingredient through green processes.
These technologies not only reduce the use of chemical solvents and environmental impact, but also allow more precise control of the purity, stability and functionality of the cosmetic active ingredient.
Vitamin C and sustainability in modern cosmetics
The development of sustainable cosmetic ingredients is a strategic priority for the industry. Therefore, biotechnology-derived vitamin C represents an effective and environmentally friendly alternative.
Current trends point towards:
Formulation with natural and traceable ingredients, sourced from plant origins or biotechnological processes.
Clean production based on low-energy technologies and without toxic waste.
Encapsulation and controlled release, which protect vitamin C from oxidation and increase its shelf life.
Upcycling strategies that revalorize waste materials into new sources of bioactive compounds.
These practices strengthen sustainability across all stages of the product life cycle, from raw material selection to final formulation. Brands that invest in biotechnological vitamin C can communicate benefits for both the skin and the planet, aligning with the expectations of conscious consumers.
At AINIA, we apply industrial biotechnology and sustainable processing technologies to help cosmetic companies integrate more natural, safe and functional ingredients into their products.
Future perspectives and innovation lines
The future of cosmetics with vitamin C is oriented towards the development of intelligent actives, sustainable formulations and science-based strategies. Some highlighted lines include:
Synergistic combinations of antioxidants (vitamin C, E and ferulic acid) to reinforce protection against oxidative stress.
Neurocosmetics and well-being, where vitamin C participates in formulations aimed at improving both skin health and the user’s emotional perception.
Personalized production: through biotechnology adapted to the specific needs of each market.
Advanced scientific validation through in vitro and ex vivo studies confirming the antioxidant, regenerative and protective effects of the active ingredient.
Research continues to advance towards more effective, sustainable and tailored solutions aligned with new consumer demands. The integration of processes such as microbial fermentation, enzymatic methods and upcycling of plant by-products not only improves the quality of the active ingredient, but also reinforces the sector’s commitment to the circular economy and the reduction of environmental impact. Investing in biotechnology means investing in cosmetics that care for the skin, the planet and the future.
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