What it is
An ester of vitamin A (retinol) and palmitic acid, common in cosmetic products.
What it does
Source of vitamin A activity in skin care and a photo-sensitive antioxidant.
Why it’s a concern
A 2012 NTP study found that retinyl palmitate combined with sunlight accelerated skin tumour development in mice. The concern is specifically its use in sunscreens and daytime products. Oral vitamin A excess during pregnancy is teratogenic.
Also known as
vitamin A palmitate
CAS numbers
79-81-2
Commonly found in
sunscreenanti-ageing creammoisturiser
Safer alternatives
- retinol used only at night
- bakuchiol
- peptide-based products
Sources
- NTP Photocarcinogenesis Study 2012