Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate is a lipophilic derivative of vitamin C .1,2 It protects against UVB-, hydrogen peroxide-, or tert-butyl hydroperoxide-induced decreases in cell viability in HaCaT keratinocytes when used at a concentration of 100 µM.1 Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate (20 µM) decreases IL-1α and prostaglandin E2 production in unstimulated and UVB-stimulated HaCaT keratinocytes. Topical application of ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate (1%) increases viable epidermis thickness, stratum corneum water content, and skin smoothness and decreases skin roughness in hairless mice.2 Formulations containing ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate have been used in cosmetic products as skin-lightening agents.
1.Ochiai, Y., Kaburagi, S., Obayashi, K., et al.A new lipophilic pro-vitamin C, tetra-isopalmitoyl ascorbic acid (VC-IP), prevents UV-induced skin pigmentation through its anti-oxidative propertiesJ. Dermatol. Sci.44(1)37-44(2006) 2.Maia Campos, P.M.B.G., Gianeti, M.D., Camargo, F.B., Jr., et al.Application of tetra-isopalmitoyl ascorbic acid in cosmetic formulations: Stability studies and in vivo efficacyEur. J. Pharm. Biopharm.82(3)580-586(2012)