Description

 
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate in Skin-lightening

Skin-lightening products have become more popular around the world. With the increased number of lightening, whitening and brightening products, questions have arisen as to the safety of some skin-bleaching ingredients. The US Food and Drug Administration has proposed a ban on over-the-counter sales of cosmetic products containing hydroquinone.

The interest in lightening products remains strong, which means that there is a need for other ingredients that achieve the same lightening results. One emerging product in this realm is magnesium ascorbyl phosphate. Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate is a water-soluble derivative of vitamin C, known to show some evidence of skin lightening abilities. The Mintel Global New Products Database (GNPD) and its Cosmetic Research product-tracking extension both show rapidly increasing numbers of new products featuring magnesium ascorbyl phosphate.

The Givenchy Black For Light Mask, launched in France, is a unique product that features magnesium ascorbyl phosphate. The mask is designed to “illuminate, unify and revitalize.” It reduces pigmentation flaws, which is what lightening products are meant to do. What makes this product unique is that it uses a photo luminescent complex to reflect the light on the skin.

Olí Face has a complete antiaging skin care system that has been launched in the United States. One product, the Anti-Aging Eye Contour Cream, contains magnesium ascorbyl phosphate along with olive oil and olive leaf. This eye cream claims to minimize dark circles, stimulate cell regeneration and prevent lines.

Mintel GNPD has seen the continued popularity of whitening and lightening products especially formulated for Asian skin types. Milotte Laboratories C’Care Vitamin Extra White Facial Foam was launched in Vietnam specifically for medium to dark skin. This product also contains magnesium ascorbyl phosphate. The foam is enriched with vitamin E and C to whiten skin.

Meanwhile in Taiwan, Chin & Hwa Cosmetics launched the GT.S.C 2 Super Upgrade Revival Silk Mask. Containing the magnesium additive, this mask is said to whiten, repair and moisturize the skin.

In the United States, Clinique Derma White Moisture Milk for Combination Oily to Oily Skin lists magnesium ascorbyl phosphate as one of its key ingredients. The product was specifically formulated for Asian skin types. The product is said to “instantly, and over time, brighten the visible signs of UV damage.” This product uses Clinique’s patent-pending IPF technology.

Product Features
Safety Measures/Side Effects: There are no adverse side effects to using Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (MAP), although those with sensitive skin may need to be aware of Vitamin C's acidic and exfoliating effects. However, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (MAP) is generally considered more gentle than traditional Vitamin C and therefore safer on sensitive skin.
Note: This is a water-soluble ingredient, but it does not dissolve readily. If you don't have a professional mixer, we suggest that you let the product dissolve over several hours in warm water, stirring frequently.
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate Powder is a water-soluble, non-irritating, stable derivative of Vitamin C. It has the same potential as vitamin C to boost skin collagen synthesis but is effective in significantly lower concentrations, and can be used at concentrations as low as *0% to suppress melanin formation (in skin-whitening solutions). It is also important to note that Magnesuim Ascorbyl Phosphate may be better choice than Vitamin C for people with sensitive skin and those wishing to avoid any exfoliating effects since many Vitamin C formulas are highly acidic (and therefore produce exfoliating effects).
In skin care products, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (MAP) is also used for UV protection and repair, collagen production, skin lightening and brightening, and as an anti-inflammatory. It is also a potent antioxidant. It is considered an excellent non-irritating skin whitening agent that inhibits skin cells to produce melanin and lightens age spots, and is a great alternative to Quinone. Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate is a also a potent anti-oxidant that can protect skin from oxidation and UV rays, and is used as an anti-inflammatory