Retinyl palmitate is a synthetic vitamin A supplement used to treat deficiencies and is also found in skin care products. Beta-carotene is a natural source of vitamin A found in foods like carrots and spinach. Overdoses of vitamin A can be harmful.
Retinyl palmitate is a chemical compound of retinol and palmitic acid. It may also be referred to as “retinol palmitate,” although this is not a scientifically correct spelling. Retinyl palmitate is used primarily as a synthetic vitamin A supplement, available in oil or powder form, and is quite often used as a treatment for anyone with vitamin A deficiency. The compound is also commonly used in low milk in fat or other forms of dairy to replace some of the vitamin A that may be lost in fat removal from milk.
Beta-carotene is also converted to vitamin A in the body, allowing the vitamin to be obtained from more natural sources. Foods like carrots, kale, and spinach are high in beta-carotene. Deficiencies in this vitamin can lead to stunted growth in children, severe night blindness, and increased vulnerability to respiratory infections. People with diets deficient in vitamin A may benefit from synthetic vitamin supplements if they cannot eat foods rich in beta-carotene.
In addition to food and supplement use, retinyl palmitate is also a common ingredient in skin care products. Many sunscreens, moisturizers, and anti-wrinkle creams often have a form of retinyl palmitate or retinyl acetate listed as “vitamin A” in the ingredients. Retinyl palmitate is widely marketed as an ingredient in these products, providing younger, more radiant skin.
Retinyl or other forms of vitamin A are added to skin products as a type of emollient. They are used to help smooth skin, increase collagen, and help skin retain moisture without clogging pores. Skin lacking in vitamin A is commonly dry and sometimes rough. Moisturized skin is said to be healthier, although it is possible to overuse these products.
Since retinyl palmitate is a synthetic version of vitamin A, many people may not realize that it still carries the same precautions. Overdoses of vitamin A, whether topical or ingested, can be harmful. It can cause brittle bones, vomiting, and possibly even death. These dangers are also present with the use of retinyl palmitate, so it’s generally a good idea for people to follow the instructions on any product that contains this compound. People with known allergies to natural or synthetic vitamin A should generally avoid products with retinyl palmitate, and those with sensitivities may benefit from consulting a dermatologist or physician first.
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