The Superior Choice: Natural Vitamin C vs. Synthetic Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a skincare essential—celebrated for its ability to brighten, firm, and protect the skin. But what many don’t realise is that not all Vitamin C is created equal. While synthetic versions dominate the market, a powerful, natural alternative is making waves in clean beauty: the Australian native Kakadu Plum.
In this blog, we unpack the key differences between lab-made Vitamin C and this Australian-grown botanical powerhouse. Discover why choosing a full-spectrum, plant-based extract isn’t just better for your skin—it’s better for the planet, too.
Vitamin C Form
Kakadu Plum delivers naturally occurring ascorbic acid through a full-spectrum, whole-plant extract—offering your skin the complete benefits of nature’s most potent source of Vitamin C. This means it’s not just one isolated ingredient—you’re getting the full complexity of the fruit as nature intended. In contrast, synthetic Vitamin C typically comes in the form of lab-made L-ascorbic acid, which lacks the co-nutrients and biological context of a natural extract. Think of it like the difference between a fresh orange and a vitamin tablet.
Vitamin C Content
Kakadu Plum delivers a potent Vitamin C content of up to 16,000 mg per 100g—that’s among the highest recorded in any natural source. Most synthetic serums offer 10–20% Vitamin C but often require careful formulation to avoid instability. With Kakadu Plum, you’re getting a rich, bioavailable dose of Vitamin C backed by nature’s balance.
Stability
Synthetic Vitamin C is notoriously unstable—it begins to degrade when exposed to air or light, often losing effectiveness long before the bottle is empty. In contrast, Pure Earth’s Kakadu Plum Extract is crafted using a water-based cellular extraction process that preserves Vitamin C in a stable, bioavailable form—resisting oxidation and maintaining potency from first drop to last.
So, the product stays effective longer, with no risk of that dreaded brown colour.
Skin Absorption
While synthetic Vitamin C can absorb quickly into the skin, it’s often too aggressive—especially at high concentrations. Kakadu Plum extract offers a gentler, time-released absorption thanks to its natural matrix of nutrients. This allows your skin to gradually benefit from Vitamin C, reducing the likelihood of redness, tingling, or sensitivity.
Skin Irritation Risk
Synthetic Vitamin C at concentrations above 10% can cause dryness, tingling, or even breakouts—particularly for sensitive skin. Kakadu Plum is far more gentle. The natural matrix in the extract contains soothing compounds that help calm the skin, making it ideal for all skin types, including those with sensitivities or conditions such as rosacea.
Other Antioxidants
Unlike synthetic formulas that often include only isolated Vitamin C, Kakadu Plum contains a range of powerful natural antioxidants—such as gallic acid, ellagic acid, flavonoids, and phenolics. These work together to neutralise free radicals, support collagen production, and defend your skin against premature ageing. It’s a full antioxidant arsenal in one ingredient.
Synergy with Skin
Your skin recognises and responds more effectively to ingredients that mirror its biological systems. Kakadu Plum offers this synergy, delivering nutrients that the skin can easily absorb and utilise. Synthetic Vitamin C, while functional, doesn’t provide the same harmony—it’s a single-function ingredient that requires other additives to be effective.
Sustainability
Pure Earth uses sustainably harvested Australian Kakadu Plums and an innovative water-based cellular extraction process that minimises waste and avoids harsh solvents. In contrast, synthetic Vitamin C is typically lab-made using energy-intensive processes and may involve the use of chemical solvents.
Additionally, choosing Kakadu Plum supports environmental responsibility and local Australian communities.
pH Sensitivity
Synthetic Vitamin C needs a low pH (around 3.5) to remain stable and effective—but this acidity can disrupt your skin’s natural barrier, leading to irritation. Kakadu Plum is naturally effective at skin-friendly pH levels, making it both gentler and safer for daily use.
Shelf Life
Synthetic Vitamin C degrades quickly—often losing its effectiveness within weeks unless kept in airtight, dark containers. In contrast, Pure Earth’s Kakadu Plum extract is crafted using advanced cellular extraction technology, preserving its natural potency and stability for up to 24 months without the need for harsh preservatives.—without sacrificing potency.
This provides a more reliable product from the first drop to the last.
Made In
Kakadu Plum is grown, harvested, and processed right here in Australia. By choosing products made with Australian extracts, you’re supporting local farmers, sustainable practices, and transparent ingredient sourcing. Synthetic Vitamin C is typically sourced from laboratories across the globe, with limited traceability and connection to the community or local place
Is Kakadu Plum Vitamin C Right for You?
The best way to find out how your skin responds to Kakadu Plum Vitamin C is to try it for yourself. Pure Earth offers a convenient 10ml sample so you can experience the benefits before committing to a full size. What sets Pure Earth apart is its use of the full Kakadu Plum extract—no added fillers, no added water—just pure, potent, plant-powered skincare.