Retinyl Palmitate
Retinol hexadecanoate / Vitamin A palmitate
Ester form of retinol, requires conversion in skin to retinaldehyde then retinoic acid; less potent and slower onset than retinol but better tolerated; EU SCCS opinion (SCCS/1576/16 updated 2022) restricts all retinoids (as retinol equivalents) to 0.3% face/0.05% body leave-on; pregnancy concern (CMR 1B at high doses, precautionary approach for cosmetics); FDA photosensitivity concern for sunscreen use (2020), avoid in SPF products
Function & Common Use
Active (retinoid)
Active Ingredient
Anti-aging serums moisturisers sunscreens (historical)
Synthetic / Animal-derived
Concentration Limits
No formal limit
0.3% as retinol equivalent (total retinoid EU limit including all forms)
Format restriction: Leave-on
Baby restriction: Avoid in pregnancy; not for infants
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Retinyl Palmitate safe to use in skincare?
Retinyl Palmitate has a Medium concern rating. Ester form of retinol, requires conversion in skin to retinaldehyde then retinoic acid; less potent and slower onset than retinol but better tolerated; EU SCCS opinion (SCCS/1576/16 updated 2022) restricts all retinoids (as retinol equivalents) to 0.3% face/0.05% body leave-on; pregnancy concern (CMR 1B at high doses, precautionary approach for cosmetics); FDA photosensitivity concern for sunscreen use (2020), avoid in SPF products
Is Retinyl Palmitate allowed in India?
Retinyl Palmitate is currently classified as "Permitted" under Indian cosmetics regulations. The maximum permitted concentration is No formal limit.
What is Retinyl Palmitate used for in cosmetics?
Retinyl Palmitate functions as: Active (retinoid). It is commonly found in: Anti-aging serums moisturisers sunscreens (historical).
Can Retinyl Palmitate cause an allergic reaction?
Yes. Retinyl Palmitate has an allergen flag (Yes). If you have sensitive skin or known fragrance/contact allergies, patch-test products containing this ingredient before full use.
Is Retinyl Palmitate safe for babies?
Retinyl Palmitate has baby/child restrictions: Avoid in pregnancy; not for infants. Avoid using products containing this ingredient on infants unless specifically formulated and labelled for baby use.
Regulatory Status
EU Annex: Annex III
Identifiers
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