Ingredient guide ›

Ascorbyl Palmitate

Vitamin C's oil-loving form.

What it does

A form of vitamin C that mixes into oils. It works as an antioxidant, keeping oils in the product from going stale.

Good to know

Also used in food (E 304). EU food scientists (EFSA) reviewed it in 2015 and found no safety concern at the levels used.

Often found in: Body lotions, Shower gels, Lip products, Pressed powders

Around the world

• United States: No FDA limit. The FDA doesn't approve cosmetic ingredients before sale. Source
• EU and UK: No special limit in the EU or UK. Source
• Canada: Not on Health Canada's Hotlist of restricted ingredients. Source
• Australia: No limit in Australia's Poisons Standard. Source

Sources

• EFSA: Re-evaluation of ascorbyl palmitate (E 304(i)) and ascorbyl stearate (E 304(ii)) as food additives (2015) (Independent)