CAS Number:
113170-55-1
Chemical / IUPAC Name:
Magnesium bis[(2R)-2-[(1S)-1,2-dihydroxyethyl]-4-hydroxy-5-oxo-2H-furan-3-olate] phosphate
INCI Name:
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate
Molecular Formula:
C12H14MgO18P2 (anhydrous) or hydrated forms
Molecular Weight:
540.47 g/mol (anhydrous)
Other Names:
MAP, Vitamin C Phosphate, Magnesium L-Ascorbyl-2-Phosphate, VC-PMG
Uses:
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (MAP) is a stable, water-soluble derivative of Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid) . It is designed to overcome the stability issues of pure Vitamin C (which oxidizes rapidly) while retaining its powerful antioxidant and skin-benefiting properties .
· Skin Care & Cosmetics: Widely used in anti-aging serums, moisturizers, creams, lotions, and sunscreens for its multiple skin benefits .
· Key Benefits:
· Antioxidant Protection: Neutralizes free radicals caused by UV exposure and pollution, preventing premature skin aging .
· Collagen Synthesis: Stimulates collagen production, improving skin firmness and reducing fine lines and wrinkles .
· Skin Brightening: Inhibits melanin production, helping to fade dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and even skin tone .
· Photoprotection: Provides some protection against UV-induced damage (works synergistically with sunscreens) .
Origin
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate is a semi-synthetic compound produced by chemically modifying L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) derived from natural sources like corn or rice. The modification involves phosphorylation and salt formation with magnesium .
What does Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate do in a formulation?
- Antioxidant: Protects skin from environmental oxidative stress .
- Collagen Production Stimulator: Promotes collagen synthesis for anti-aging benefits .
- Skin Lightening Agent: Reduces melanin formation, fading hyperpigmentation .
- Skin Conditioning Agent: Improves overall skin texture and hydration .
Safety Profile:
· General Hazard Classification: Considered safe for topical use in cosmetics at recommended concentrations .
· Concentration Limits: Typically used at 1 - 5% in cosmetic formulations. Higher concentrations (up to 10-15%) can be used in specialized products .
· Irritation & Sensitization: Generally regarded as non-irritating and non-sensitizing at typical use concentrations. It is much gentler than L-Ascorbic Acid (pure Vitamin C), making it suitable for sensitive skin .
· Stability: Excellent stability compared to pure Vitamin C. MAP is resistant to oxidation and does not degrade rapidly when exposed to air, light, or water. Formulations maintain potency longer .
· pH Compatibility: Stable and effective at a wider pH range (pH 6.0 - 7.5) compared to L-Ascorbic Acid (which requires low pH) .
· Penetration: Effectively penetrates the skin and converts to active Vitamin C within skin cells .
· Regulatory Status: Approved for use in cosmetics worldwide .
Technical profile:
| Property | Values |
| Appearance | White to off-white crystalline powder |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Assay (Purity) | ≥ 95.0% (typically 95-102%) |
| Magnesium Content | 3.5 - 5.5% |
| pH (3% solution) | 6.0 - 8.0 (neutral to slightly alkaline) |
| Loss on Drying | ≤ 5.0% |
| Heavy Metals (as Pb) | ≤ 10 ppm |
| Arsenic | ≤ 2 ppm |
| Solubility | Soluble in water (up to 50% w/w); slightly soluble in alcohols; insoluble in oils |
| Bulk Density | 0.3 - 0.6 g/cm³ |
| Melting Point | 200°C (decomposes) |
| Stability | Excellent; stable at room temperature, resistant to oxidation |
| Recommended Use Level | 1 - 5% for daily use; up to 10-15% for intensive treatments |