Retinyl acetate

28. August 2023
127-47-9, Vitamin A Acetate

As an ester between acetic acid and retinol, retinyl acetate is one of the main forms of vitamin A. It is found in animal products such as liver and milk and is converted into retinol in the human organism. In contrast, retinyl acetate does not occur in plant products. Retinol is mainly known for its positive effect on our eyesight, the immune system and the skin and mucous membranes. In the worst case, a serious deficiency can lead to night blindness, because vitamin A serves as the basis for important visual pigments, which in turn make it possible to distinguish light from dark. Vitamin A also plays a major role in the development of cells and tissues.

 

Benefits of retinyl acetate

The chemical compound is often used in the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries, but also in the production of animal feed, where it is authorised for all animal species (Regulation (EC) No 1831/2003 f). It is found in toothpaste as well as in cough drops and has recently attracted attention as a new innovative anti-ageing ingredient.

Whether in moisturisers and eye creams, in sunscreen products or in body lotions, retinyl acetate is no longer an exception in cosmetic formulations. There is a reason for this, because compared to conventional retinol, retinyl acetate offers a decisive advantage. Retinol is a very valuable radical scavenger, but at the same time it is extremely sensitive to oxidants, acids, light and air. Retinol esters such as retinyl acetate are much more stable in this respect.

 

Retinyl acetate in cosmetics

The compound is excellent for the treatment of dry scaly skin, but can also be used for impure and/or stressed skin. It reduces wrinkles caused by the environment, increases the elasticity of the skin and helps to stimulate cell renewal on the skin’s surface. Dead skin cells are shed faster and better. Retinyl acetate is also able to inhibit the breakdown of collagen.

At the same time, however, it also promotes the formation of new collagen, which also answers the question why retinyl acetate is preferably used in cosmetic products for mature skin. Here, the combination with vitamin C is particularly recommended. In this way, the antioxidant effect can develop in the best possible way. It is also used to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin texture and increase skin elasticity.

 

Disadvantage of retinyl acetate

It is also important to note that retinyl acetate, or products containing it, should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding as it can increase skin sensitivity and there is insufficient evidence that it is safe.

 

Fact Sheet Retinyl Acetate

INCI: Retinyl acetate

CAS number: 127-47-9

Alternative names: Vitamin A acetate, all-trans-retinyl acetate.

Description: a yellow crystalline powder

Melting point: 57 to 58 degrees Celsius

Molecular formula: C22H32O2

Solubility: sparingly soluble in ethyl acetate, dichloromethane, and chloroform, almost insoluble in water

 

Retinyl acetate as an active ingredient for innovative cosmetic formulations

Retinol esters such as retinyl acetate are significantly more stable than retinol in terms of resistance to oxidation, light, air, and acids, but are just as effective. The active ingredient is ideal for sophisticated anti-ageing formulations and can visibly reduce wrinkles. It is well tolerated and gentler than retinol, which can cause skin irritation in some people. Or, to put it another way: retinyl acetate is an active ingredient that is tailor-made for modern and innovative cosmetic products that are particularly aimed at mature skin. Cosmacon is happy to develop high-quality and sophisticated formulations for you!

 

Literature

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