What it is
This is a fat-soluble derivative of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) created by joining it with palmitic acid, which makes it easier to incorporate into oil-containing formulas than water-soluble vitamin C. It is used mainly for its antioxidant properties, helping protect formula components from oxidation. In sunscreens it can serve as an antioxidant in the oil phase rather than as a UV filter.
Safety & warnings
Ascorbyl palmitate is generally well tolerated in topical formulas. It is used as an oil-soluble antioxidant, though vitamin C derivatives can vary in stability depending on the formulation.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic; an ester produced by combining ascorbic acid with palmitic acid.
Questions everyone asks
Is ascorbyl palmitate a form of vitamin C?
Yes. It is an oil-soluble ester of ascorbic acid (vitamin C), used mainly for its antioxidant properties.
Why use it instead of plain vitamin C?
Its oil solubility lets it blend into oil-containing formulas more easily than water-soluble ascorbic acid.