Check your INCI: The difference between Kakadu plum fruit extract and ascorbic acid

At Antipodes, we believe in the power of potent, natural ingredients. When it comes to skincare, vitamin C is a well-established hero, but there’s a superfruit that’s taking this essential nutrient to the next level: Kakadu plum. Native to our neighbours in Australia and packed with the highest concentration of vitamin C in the world, Kakadu plum offers exceptional skincare benefits.

What is vitamin C?

Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is essential for collagen production, immune function, and skin repair. In skincare, it’s celebrated for its ability to brighten dark spots, stimulate collagen, and protect the skin from free radicals and pollutants.

While ascorbic acid is derived from fruit, it is often synthetically modified for use in cosmetics. This process reduces its potency, making synthetic vitamin C less effective than natural sources like Kakadu plum.

Bigger isn’t better

Don’t be fooled by formulations claiming to have big percentages of vitamin C – sometimes as high as 10% – the effectiveness of these products can vary significantly due to the stability and bioavailability of synthetic forms of vitamin C. You’ll see it in the ingredients, or INCI list, as ‘ascorbic acid.’

Natural sources like Kakadu plum, on the other hand, offer a more stable and bioavailable form that delivers better results without irritation.

Kakadu plum vs. Vitamin C: what’s the difference?

Kakadu plum (Terminalia ferdinandiana) is one of the most potent natural sources of Vitamin C, containing up to 100 times more vitamin C than an orange. This powerful fruit provides superior antioxidant protection and is more effective than synthetic ascorbic acid in skincare.

Why Kakadu plum is a skincare essential

  1. Incredible vitamin C concentration
    Kakadu plum delivers the highest natural vitamin C content of any fruit, providing intense antioxidant protection against premature ageing and environmental stress.
  2. Better absorption for collagen support
    The natural form of vitamin C in Kakadu plum fruit extract is highly bioavailable, meaning it is easily absorbed by the skin and effectively boosts collagen production for firmer, more youthful-looking skin.
  3. More than just vitamin C
    In addition to vitamin C, Kakadu plum is rich in vitamin E, zinc, and iron, all of which help nourish and protect the skin. These nutrients work together to reduce inflammation, combat blemishes, and promote a healthy, radiant glow.
  4. Gentle on sensitive skin
    Unlike synthetic vitamin C, which can sometimes irritate the skin, Kakadu plum is much gentler, making it a great choice for those with sensitive skin.

Why you should add Kakadu plum to your skincare ritual

If you're looking for brighter, firmer, and more radiant skin, Kakadu plum is a must-try. Its superior vitamin C content and antioxidant-rich profile make it ideal for reducing dark spots, boosting collagen, and protecting against environmental damage.

At Antipodes,we are proud to offer skincare products featuring Kakadu plum to help you achieve healthier, glowing skin. You can find this superfruit in our Skin-Brightening range of formulations.

Gospel Vitamin C Skin-Glow Gel Cleanser

Clear impurities and reveal fresh, glowing skin with this nourishing vitamin C gel cleanser.

Glory Vitamin C Triple-Action Glow Toner

A natural toner with three key brightening ingredients to target pigmentation and foster an even-toned glow: Kakadu plum, tone-correcting peptides, and lime caviar AHA.

Glow Vitamin C Brightening Serum

Foster brighter, hydrated skin with nature’s highest source of vitamin C inthis bestselling brightening gel serum.

Kiwi Seed Gold Luminous Eye Cream

Brighten under eyes, target dark circles, and improve signs of ageing with this illuminating eye cream.

Diem Vitamin C Pigment-Correcting Water Cream

Target pigmentation, dullness, and uneven skin tone with this light-textured hydrating moisturiser.

To get the full benefits of your skincare ritual, make sure you wear daily sunscreen:

Supernatural SPF50+ Ceramide Silk Facial Sunscreen

Shield your skin with this 100% natural-origin SPF50+ broad-spectrum UVA + UVB sunscreen.