What it is
Ascorbyl Dipalmitate is a lipid-soluble derivative of ascorbic acid in which two palmitic acid groups are esterified to the vitamin C molecule, making it more compatible with oil phases than plain vitamin C. It is used in formulations as an antioxidant and conditioning ingredient, and its oil solubility allows incorporation into anhydrous and emulsion sunscreen bases. The palmitate groups also improve its stability relative to free ascorbic acid.
Safety & warnings
Ascorbyl Dipalmitate is generally well tolerated and is considered a low-irritation vitamin C derivative because, unlike free ascorbic acid, it is not strongly acidic. As with other fatty-acid esters, it is used in oil phases; comedogenicity at typical use levels is not a notable concern.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic, produced by esterifying ascorbic acid (vitamin C) with palmitic acid, a fatty acid that can be plant- or animal-derived.
Questions everyone asks
How is Ascorbyl Dipalmitate different from regular vitamin C?
It is an oil-soluble ester of vitamin C, so it blends into oil phases and is more stable and less acidic than pure ascorbic acid.
Why is it used in sunscreens?
It acts as an antioxidant and conditioning agent and is easy to incorporate into the oily portion of a sunscreen formula.