ascorbyl palmitate

Ascorbyl palmitate is a **lipophilic ester of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and palmitic acid**, resulting in a fat-soluble form of vitamin C with **antioxidant**, **antiproliferative**, and **antineoplastic** activities[2][6][7][4][3]. It protects cellular components and oil-based formulations from oxidative damage by scavenging free radicals[3][4]. Ascorbyl palmitate can exert cytotoxic effects in cancer cell models, may alter DNA synthesis, inhibit ornithine decarboxylase induction, and has shown activity in animal models reducing tumor formation[1][2][4][7]. Its amphipathic nature enables its inclusion in **pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic formulations** as an antioxidant and preservative, and in topical products for potential skin-brightening and anti-aging effects[3][7]. Ascorbyl palmitate is considered to have vitamin C activity, but its oral supplementation is less effective than water-soluble ascorbic acid due to intestinal breakdown[6]. It is manufactured synthetically.

Brand names

vitamin C ester

Other names

palmitoyl ascorbatevitamin C palmitateL-ascorbyl palmitate6-O-palmitoyl-L-ascorbic acidpalmitoyl L-ascorbic acidascorbate palmitate