What is Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate?

Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate is a stable, oil-soluble derivative of Vitamin C, modified with four isopalmitate groups for improved stability and deeper skin penetration. Unlike water-soluble ascorbic acid, it resists degradation from air and light, delivering potent antioxidant benefits. This makes it a popular ingredient in skincare for brightening, anti-aging, and overall skin health.

How does this ingredient work in skincare?

Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate is an oil-soluble antioxidant that protects skin from free radicals and environmental stressors like UV radiation and pollution. Its deeper penetration allows it to convert into active ascorbic acid within skin cells, where it stimulates collagen production, strengthens the skin barrier, and evens skin tone. The ingredient helps reduce hyperpigmentation by inhibiting melanin production, promoting a brighter complexion. It also supports skin regeneration, making it ideal for aging or post-inflammatory skin, and helps prevent collagen and elastin breakdown, protecting against fine lines and wrinkles.

How does this ingredient compare to others?

Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate stands out from other Vitamin C derivatives due to its oil-soluble nature, offering better stability and deeper skin penetration. Unlike ascorbic acid or Ascorbyl Glucoside, which are more prone to oxidation, it ensures more consistent delivery of Vitamin C benefits. It is also milder on the skin, making it suitable for sensitive types. In addition to brightening and addressing pigmentation, Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate stimulates collagen production, making it especially effective for reducing signs of aging, such as fine lines and sagging.

Potential benefits of this ingredient for the skin

• Brightening and Even Skin Tone: Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate helps reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and discoloration by inhibiting melanin production, leading to a more even complexion.
• Anti-aging: By stimulating collagen production and preventing the breakdown of collagen fibers, it helps minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improving skin elasticity and firmness.
• Antioxidant Protection: It provides potent antioxidant defense against free radicals, protecting the skin from oxidative stress and environmental damage caused by UV rays, pollution, and toxins.
• Deep Penetration: Its oil-soluble nature allows it to penetrate deeper into the skin layers, making it more effective at reaching the dermis, where collagen synthesis and skin repair occur.
• Collagen Synthesis: Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate promotes collagen production, which helps to strengthen the skin’s structure and improve overall skin tone and texture.
• Milder than Other Vitamin C Forms: Compared to water-soluble Vitamin C derivatives, Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate is less irritating and better suited for those with sensitive or reactive skin.
• Supports Skin Repair: It aids in skin regeneration, improving the skin’s ability to heal from environmental damage, acne scars, or pigmentation issues.

Products we use this ingredient in

Goji Ectoin Recovery Lip Balm

References

Boo, Y. C. “Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) as a Cosmeceutical to Increase Dermal Collagen for Skin Anti-Aging Purposes: Emerging Combination Therapies.” Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland), vol. 11, no. 9 (2022), Article 1949. doi: 10.3390/antiox11091663