Ascorbyl palmitate
Synopsis of ascorbyl palmitate
Ascorbyl palmitate is a fat-soluble form of vitamin C, created by combining ascorbic acid (water-soluble vitamin C) with palmitic acid, a saturated fatty acid. This esterified compound allows vitamin C to dissolve in lipids, making it especially useful in cell membranes, cosmetic formulations, and fat-rich tissues where water-soluble ascorbic acid cannot penetrate effectively.
As an antioxidant, ascorbyl palmitate protects lipids in the body from oxidative damage, particularly cell membranes and LDL cholesterol, which are vulnerable to lipid peroxidation. It also contributes to the regeneration of vitamin E, another key lipid-soluble antioxidant, and supports the neutralization of free radicals in fat-soluble environments. Though it ultimately breaks down into its two components—ascorbic acid and palmitate—its unique structure enables targeted delivery of vitamin C into areas of the body where it is otherwise less bioavailable.
In clinical and functional health applications, ascorbyl palmitate is used to support:
- Skin health and collagen formation (especially in topical serums and creams)
- Brain and nerve protection, due to its ability to cross lipid-rich barriers
- Lipid antioxidant defense, particularly in cardiovascular health
Ascorbyl palmitate is commonly found in nutraceuticals, topical anti-aging products, and food preservatives, where it helps prevent rancidity in oils and fats due to its antioxidant properties.
Historical Use:
Ascorbyl palmitate is a modern, synthesized nutrient, developed in the 20th century to improve the stability and absorption of vitamin C in lipid-based environments. It has no known use in traditional herbal or folk medicine as an isolated compound.
However, the need it addresses—enhancing vitamin C absorption and antioxidant protection in tissues rich in fat—parallels the longstanding use of vitamin C–rich foods and herbs in traditional medicine systems. For instance, amla (Indian gooseberry) in Ayurveda, rose hips in European herbalism, and citrus peels in Traditional Chinese Medicine were all valued for their immune-boosting, anti-aging, and tissue-repairing effects—now understood to be due, in part, to their vitamin C content.
Today, ascorbyl palmitate bridges modern nutrition and biochemistry with the therapeutic goals of traditional medicine by enhancing the reach and application of vitamin C in ways previously not possible—especially for skin, nerves, and lipid-based tissues vulnerable to oxidative stress.
Ascorbyl palmitate is used for these health conditions
Aging (prevention) (Scientific)
Free Radical Damage (Scientific)
Wrinkles (Scientific)
ascorbyl palmitate is used to support these body systems
Skin (Scientific)
