Product name: Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate

CAS: 114040-31-2

Molecular formula: C6H8Mg3O14P2

Molecular weight: 438.98

Description: Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate is a stable, water soluble derivative of Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic acid mono-dihydrogen phosphate magnesium salt). Unlike L-Ascorbic Acid, it does not readily degrade in formulas containing water.  It is considered light-stable and oxygen-stable. Studies of MAP in aqueous solutions indicate it retains over 95% of its potency at40°Cwithout any pH adjustment.

By inhibiting tyrosinase activity, MAP is capable of suppressing skin pigmentation, making it effective in whitening dark skin, or areas of dark skin.  It should be noted, one study indicated it might be needed at a concentration of 10% to be effective at inhibiting melanin production1.

Unlike Ascorbyl Palmitate, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (MAP) appears to have the same potential to boost skin collagen synthesis as does Ascorbic Acid, but at lower concentrations. For those with sensitive skin or those wanting to avoid the exfoliating effects of highly acidic Ascorbic Acid, MAP may be the preferred choice.