Retinyl Palmitate
💚Very good
Cell-Communicating Ingredient
Antioxidant
What it is
An ester of retinol (Vitamin A) and palmitic acid. It is the mildest of the over-the-counter retinoids.
How it works
Retinyl Palmitate must be converted in the skin to retinol, then to retinaldehyde, and finally to retinoic acid to become active. Due to this lengthy conversion process, its primary function in skincare is often as an antioxidant, with some milder, long-term anti-aging potential.
Benefits
- Provides antioxidant protection.
- May offer mild, long-term improvement in fine lines and skin tone.
- Much gentler and less irritating than other retinoids.
Pairs well with
Vitamin C, Vitamin E
Formulation notes
Effective concentration: 0.1% - 1.0%
pH range: N/A
Stability: More stable than retinol, but still requires protection from light and air.
Safety
Irritancy: Low
Comedogenicity: 1-3
Ratings
Paula's Choice: Good
INCIdecoder: no-take