Ascorbyl palmitate (Vitamin C derivative)
Ascorbyl palmitate is a stable, oil-soluble derivative of vitamin C commonly used in UK skincare and beauty products. It acts as an antioxidant to help protect skin from environmental damage while brightening and supporting a more even tone. Gentle enough for daily use, it is often found in creams, serums and moisturisers.
How it works in skincare
In cosmetics and skincare, ascorbyl palmitate functions as a potent antioxidant that helps neutralise free radicals generated by UV exposure and pollution. Being fat-soluble, it penetrates the lipid layers of the skin more readily than pure ascorbic acid, delivering vitamin C benefits while improving product stability and reducing the risk of oxidation. It is frequently combined with other skincare actives to support a brighter, more radiant complexion and to help maintain the overall integrity of formulations.
Key benefits
- Helps brighten dull skin for a more radiant appearance
- Provides antioxidant protection against environmental stressors
- Supports a more even skin tone
- Enhances product stability in oil-based formulas
- Gentle alternative to pure vitamin C for sensitive skin
- Helps maintain skin suppleness in moisturising creams
Best for
mature skin, dull skin, sensitive skin, dry skin, uneven skin tone
Where it comes from
Ascorbyl palmitate is produced by combining ascorbic acid (vitamin C), which is naturally derived from sources such as citrus fruits or rose hips, with palmitic acid obtained from vegetable oils like palm or coconut oil.
Products with Ascorbyl palmitate (Vitamin C derivative)
Not every product on UK Lips lists a full ingredient breakdown — so there may be many more formulas that contain Ascorbyl palmitate (Vitamin C derivative) than we can show here. These are the comparisons where we’ve confirmed it in the listed ingredients.