Antioxidant

Ascorbyl Dipalmitate

INCI: ASCORBYL DIPALMITATE

Reviewed by Emma · Last updated 14 Aug 2026

Also known as: Ascorbyl Dipalmitate

A stable vitamin C derivative that works as an antioxidant to help protect skin from environmental stress

Best For Skin Types

All, Oily, Combination, Mature

Addresses

Environmental damage, Oxidative stress

Usage Frequency

Daily

What Is Ascorbyl Dipalmitate?

Ascorbyl dipalmitate is a fat-soluble form of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) created by binding ascorbic acid to palmitic acid, a naturally occurring fatty acid. This chemical modification makes it more stable than pure vitamin C, which can degrade quickly when exposed to light, heat, and air. It functions primarily as an antioxidant in skincare formulations.

As an antioxidant, ascorbyl dipalmitate helps neutralise free radicals—unstable molecules generated by sun exposure, pollution, and other environmental stressors. By doing so, it aims to reduce oxidative stress on the skin.

How It Works

Ascorbyl dipalmitate works by donating electrons to free radicals, neutralising them before they can damage skin cells. This reduces oxidative stress, which is implicated in premature ageing and skin barrier compromise.

Because it is fat-soluble, ascorbyl dipalmitate can penetrate the lipid-rich outer layers of skin more readily than water-soluble vitamin C forms. However, research on its specific efficacy in cosmetic products remains limited.

Clinical Evidence & References

Ascorbyl dipalmitate is recognised as safe for use in cosmetics by regulatory bodies and belongs to a family of ascorbic acid derivatives approved for skincare. However, direct clinical evidence specifically examining ascorbyl dipalmitate's efficacy in skincare products is sparse. Most vitamin C research focuses on L-ascorbic acid and sodium ascorbyl phosphate rather than the dipalmitate form.

While antioxidant activity is well-established for ascorbic acid and related compounds, the degree to which ascorbyl dipalmitate delivers these benefits in real-world skincare use remains unclear. Further research would help clarify its practical value compared to other vitamin C derivatives.

How to Use

Ascorbyl dipalmitate is typically used at low concentrations in serums, moisturisers, and other leave-on products. As with all antioxidant skincare, consistency matters more than occasional use. Apply to clean skin and allow to absorb fully before layering other products. Store formulations away from direct sunlight and heat to maximise ingredient stability.

Safety & Precautions

Ascorbyl dipalmitate is generally well-tolerated and considered safe for cosmetic use. Sensitivity is uncommon, though patch testing is advisable for those with reactive skin, particularly if the formula contains other active ingredients.

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