Ascorbyl magnesium phosphate

Basic Information

• Chemical Name: Magnesium L-ascorbyl-2-phosphate sesquimagnesium salt (CAS 113170-55-1)
  • Synonyms: Vitamin C phosphate magnesium, MAP
• Molecular Formula:
  • CAS 113170-55-1:  C12​H12​O18​P2​Mg3​⋅10H2​O  (hydrated form)
  • CAS 114040-31-2:  C6​H8​Mg3​O14​P2​  (anhydrous form)
• Molecular Weight:
  • CAS 113170-55-1: 759.2 g/mol (hydrated)
  • CAS 114040-31-2: 438.98 g/mol (anhydrous)
• Classification: Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) derivative, water-soluble.

Description

Physical Properties

• Appearance: White to pale yellow crystalline powder.
• Solubility:
  • Soluble in water (8 g/100 mL at 25°C) and polar solvents (e.g., ethanol).
  • Insoluble in non-polar solvents (e.g., mineral oil).
• Stability:
  • pH Stability: Stable at neutral pH (6.5–8.5) but hydrolyzes in acidic conditions to release ascorbic acid 2.
  • Thermal Stability: Resistant to oxidation and heat compared to pure vitamin C, making it suitable for high-temperature processing 5.

Chemical Structure

Key Data

• Purity:
  • Cosmetic/Food Grade: ≥98% (HPLC) 7.
  • Pharmaceutical Grade: ≥99% (HPLC) 5.
• Optical Rotation:  [α]D20​=+21.5° to +26.5°  (3% aqueous solution) 7.
• Melting Point: Decomposes at ~218°C without a distinct melting point 6.
• pH (3% Solution): 7.0–8.5 7.

Functions

Antioxidant Activity

• Free Radical Scavenging: Neutralizes reactive oxygen species (ROS) and prevents oxidative damage to DNA, proteins, and lipids 2.
• Regenerates Antioxidants: Reactivates oxidized vitamin E and glutathione, enhancing overall antioxidant capacity 2.

Skin Health

• Melanin Inhibition: Blocks tyrosinase activity, reducing melanin production and improving hyperpigmentation (e.g., age spots, melasma) 2 21.
• Collagen Synthesis: Stimulates fibroblast activity to promote collagen production, improving skin elasticity and reducing wrinkles 2.
• UV Protection: Mitigates UV-induced inflammation and photoaging by scavenging free radicals 2.

Hair Care

• Hair Growth Stimulation: Enhances blood circulation in the scalp and supports keratinocyte proliferation, promoting hair follicle health 2.

Food & Pharmaceutical Applications

• Antioxidant Preservative: Extends shelf life in processed foods (e.g., oils, instant noodles) by preventing lipid peroxidation 16.
• Nutritional Fortification: Provides stable vitamin C in dietary supplements and infant formulas 15.

Applications

Cosmetics & Personal Care

• Skin Whitening: Used in creams, serums, and masks (e.g., Albion’s Whitening Powder) to lighten dark spots and even skin tone 12.
• Anti-Aging: Formulated in anti-wrinkle products to boost collagen and protect against environmental stressors 2.
• Sunscreens: Enhances UV protection by reducing oxidative damage caused by sun exposure 2.

Food Industry

• Antioxidant: Added to oils, beverages, and processed meats to prevent oxidation and maintain nutritional value 16.
• Acidulant: Regulates pH in acidic foods (e.g., jams, sauces) 16.

Pharmaceuticals

• Oral Supplements: Provides stable vitamin C for immune support and iron absorption 10.
• Topical Treatments: Used in creams for wound healing and dermatological conditions (e.g., eczema)