Kojic Acid Dipalmitate

CAS Number:

79725-98-7

Chemical / IUPAC Name:

4-Oxo-4H-pyran-2,6-diyl bis(hexadecanoate)

INCI Name:

Kojic Acid Dipalmitate

Molecular Formula:

 C38H66O6

Molecular Weight:

618.92 g/mol

Other Names:

Kojic Acid Dipalmitate, Kojic Acid Dip, KAD, Dipalmitoyl Kojic Acid

Uses:

Kojic Acid Dipalmitate is a lipophilic (oil-soluble) derivative of Kojic Acid, created by esterifying Kojic Acid with palmitic acid. It is designed to overcome the stability and formulation challenges of regular Kojic Acid while retaining its skin-brightening benefits .

· Skin Care & Cosmetics: Used in skin brightening creams, serums, lotions, and emulsions to reduce hyperpigmentation, dark spots, melasma, and uneven skin tone .

· Mechanism: Like Kojic Acid, it works as a tyrosinase inhibitor, reducing melanin production. However, it must first be hydrolyzed to release free Kojic Acid, which then exerts the depigmenting effect .

· Advantages over Kojic Acid:

  · Improved Stability: Significantly more stable than Kojic Acid; resistant to oxidation and discoloration (does not turn yellow/brown) .

  · Oil Solubility: Easily incorporated into oil-based formulations, emulsions, and anhydrous products .

  · Better Skin Penetration: The lipophilic nature allows better penetration through the lipid layers of the skin .

  · Less Irritating: Generally milder and less likely to cause skin irritation compared to Kojic Acid .

Origin

Kojic Acid Dipalmitate is a semi-synthetic compound produced by the esterification of Kojic Acid (derived from fungal fermentation) with Palmitic Acid (a fatty acid commonly derived from palm oil) .

What does Kojic Acid Dipalmitate do in a formulation?

• Tyrosinase Inhibitor / Skin Lightening Agent: Reduces melanin production, lightening dark spots and evening skin tone .
• Antioxidant: Provides protection against free radical damage .
• Emollient: The palmitic acid component contributes to skin softening and conditioning

Safety Profile:

· General Hazard Classification: Considered safe for topical use in cosmetics at recommended concentrations. It is significantly milder than Kojic Acid .

· Concentration Limits: Typically used at 0.5 - 2% in cosmetic formulations (higher concentrations possible due to stability) .

· Irritation & Sensitization: Generally regarded as non-irritating and non-sensitizing at typical use concentrations, making it suitable for sensitive skin .

· Stability: Excellent thermal and oxidative stability. Does not discolor over time like Kojic Acid .

· Photosensitivity: While the derivative itself is stable, the free Kojic Acid released in skin may increase photosensitivity. Sunscreen use is still recommended .

· Regulatory Status: Approved for use in cosmetics worldwide .

Technical profile: