Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (MAP)

High-Purity, Stable Vitamin C Derivative for Brightening and Collagen Synthesis

INCI Name: Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate

Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (MAP) is a highly stable, non-irritating, water-soluble Vitamin C derivative renowned for brightening, tyrosinase inhibition, and antioxidant defense. It supports collagen synthesis to enhance firmness and elasticity while helping reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles. Ideal for advanced anti-aging and skin-brightening formulations across serums, creams, and targeted treatments.

Solubility Notes:

Water-soluble. Add to the water phase of the formulation. Gentle heating to ~40 °C (104 °F) can improve the rate of dissolution.

Perfect For These Applications

Other cosmetic uses possible—contact us for formulation guidance.

Brightening Serums

Effectively reduces the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation in concentrated, lightweight serums for a more even and radiant skin tone.
Anti-Aging Face Creams & Moisturizers

Promotes collagen production to firm skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles in daily-use creams and lotions.
Eye Creams

Gently brightens the delicate under-eye area and provides antioxidant defense, making it suitable for targeted anti-fatigue and anti-aging eye treatments.
Sun Care & After-Sun Products

Provides antioxidant benefits that help protect skin from free radicals generated by UV exposure and soothes skin in after-sun formulations.
Dark Spot Correctors

Delivers targeted action to inhibit tyrosinase activity, effectively fading age spots, sun spots, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Hydrating Toners & Mists

Incorporates easily into water-based toners and facial mists to deliver antioxidant protection and a subtle brightening boost throughout the day.

Performance & Formulation Insights for Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (MAP)

How Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate Works

Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (MAP) is a stable precursor to ascorbic acid that becomes bioactive upon penetrating the epidermis, where cutaneous phosphatases cleave the phosphate group to release Vitamin C. Its core actions include skin brightening, collagen synthesis support, and antioxidant protection. MAP helps reduce hyperpigmentation by inhibiting tyrosinase, the key enzyme in melanogenesis, resulting in a more even skin tone. As a potent antioxidant, it neutralizes free radicals generated by UV exposure and pollution. Additionally, MAP serves as an essential cofactor in collagen synthesis, contributing to improved skin firmness, elasticity, and a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Formulation Guidelines for Optimal Performance

MAP is a white to pale yellow, odorless, water-soluble powder that integrates easily into aqueous systems. For optimal stability and performance, target a final formulation pH of 6.0–7.0; MAP may discolor below pH 6. Add MAP to the water phase and gently warm to approximately 40 °C (104 °F) to aid dissolution. Compared to L-ascorbic acid, MAP offers superior heat and oxygen stability and is easier to formulate without specialized stabilization systems. Recommended usage ranges from 0.2–3% for daily antioxidant support, and up to 10% for intensive brightening or dark spot–targeting treatments.

Key Formulation Benefits

Superior Stability: More resistant to oxidation and hydrolysis than L-ascorbic acid in water-based formulas, supporting longer shelf life and consistent potency.
Potent Brightening Effects: Inhibits tyrosinase to visibly reduce dark spots, sun damage, and post-acne marks for a more luminous complexion.
Collagen Production Support: Functions as a vital cofactor for collagen synthesis to improve firmness and soften fine lines and wrinkles.
Gentle & Non-Irritating: Effective at near-neutral pH (6.0–7.0), making it suitable for sensitive skin compared to low-pH L-ascorbic acid systems.
Proven Antioxidant Power: Neutralizes free radicals from UV and pollution to help prevent premature skin aging.
Ease of Formulation: Water-soluble powder integrates smoothly into serums, creams, lotions, and emulsions without complex stabilization techniques.

Heading #1
Benefits	Anti-Aging & Anti-Wrinkle, Antioxidants, Brightening & Skin Lightening, Collagen Boosting, Dark Spot Reduction, Tyrosinase Inhibition
INCI Name	Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate
Usage Rate	0.2%-10%
Active Type	Vitamin C Derivatives, Vitamins & Derivatives
Solubility	Water-Soluble
Application Area	Body, Eye, Face, Lip
Physical Form	Powder
Certifications	Cruelty-Free, Vegan

Frequently Asked Questions About Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (MAP)

Use 0.2%–3% for general antioxidant and anti-aging benefits. For intensive brightening and targeting hyperpigmentation, use up to 10%.

MAP is more stable and less irritating. Unlike L-ascorbic acid, which is highly unstable and requires a low pH, MAP is effective and stable at near-neutral pH (6.0–7.0), making it easier to formulate and gentler on skin.

Maintain a final pH between 6.0 and 7.0 to ensure maximum stability and to prevent discoloration.

Yes. Because MAP is effective at a non-acidic pH, it is considered one of the gentlest forms of Vitamin C and is well-suited for sensitive or easily irritated skin.

Yes. MAP is highly compatible with many actives and can be formulated with niacinamide. It also pairs well in routines that include retinoids (e.g., MAP in the morning, retinoids at night).

MAP inhibits tyrosinase, the key enzyme responsible for melanin production, helping to even skin tone and fade hyperpigmentation.

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