Ingredient Glossary · Cosmetic Active

Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate

Vitamin C Derivative · L-Ascorbic Acid 2-Phosphate Sesquimagnesium Salt · روشنی‐خال (روشنی‐خال)

A stabilized Vitamin C phosphate ester that delivers sustained brightening, collagen synthesis, and antioxidant protection. Unlike L-Ascorbic Acid, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate is water-soluble, pH-stable at 6.0–7.0, and activates on skin through natural phosphatase enzymes. Ideal for hyperpigmentation, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation across Fitzpatrick III–VI skin tones.

CAS
113170–55–1
Chemical ID
pH
6.0–7.0
Optimal Activity
EU
Permitted
Regulatory
Scroll
Quick Reference

At a Glance

Product Type
Cosmetic Active Ingredient / Vitamin C Derivative
INCI Name
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate
Physical Form
White to pale yellow free-flowing powder, hygroscopic
Solubility
Freely soluble in water; slightly in ethanol; insoluble in mineral oil
pH Range
6.0–7.0 (optimal activity)
Use Level
0.2–2% general care; 3–5% brightening; up to 10% therapeutic
Halal Status
Yes — 100% synthetic. No animal inputs, no ethanol, no fermentation.
Regulatory
EU Permitted (not in Annex II/III/V/VI), DRAP Pakistan approved
CAS Number
113170–55–1
Molecular Weight
{MW}
Shelf Life
24–36 months sealed below 25°C
Urdu Name
روشنی‐خال / Vitamin C
Common Synonyms
MAP, VCPMG, L-Ascorbic Acid 2-Phosphate Sesquimagnesium Salt
Stability vs L-Ascorbic Acid
50–100x more stable; skin-activates slowly for extended efficacy
Introduction

Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate

Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (MAP) is a water-soluble, pH-stable Vitamin C derivative that delivers sustained brightening, collagen synthesis, and antioxidant protection without the formulation challenges of L-Ascorbic Acid. Unlike its unstable predecessor, MAP remains shelf-stable for 24–36 months at room temperature, activates on skin through natural phosphatase enzymes, and works effectively at physiological pH 6.0–7.0. This makes it the ideal active for South Asian skin, particularly for treating hyperpigmentation, melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), and cumulative sun damage across Fitzpatrick III–VI.

For Pakistani formulations, MAP represents a breakthrough in stable Vitamin C delivery. Lahore’s hot, dry climate and Karachi’s humid coastal environment both challenge Vitamin C actives; MAP’s chemistry overcomes these barriers. The phosphate moiety protects the ascorbic acid core until skin contact, when cutaneous phosphatase enzymes cleave it, releasing the active form gradually over hours. Bio Shop Pakistan manufactures pharmaceutical-grade MAP under ISO 22716 GMP with full microbiology testing. This is the professional formulator’s answer to brightening serum development across the subcontinent.

Bio Shop™ Pakistan — Sourcing Note

Bio Shop™ sources Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (CAS 113170–55–1) from USFDA-approved manufacturers with Certificate of Analysis per batch confirming ≥98% HPLC purity, pH 5.8–7.2, and zero E. coli / Pseudomonas. Supplied as pharmaceutical-grade free-flowing powder in sealed HDPE jars with desiccant. Minimum order: 100g. Available exclusively at bioshop.pk.

Chemical Identity

Product Profile

INCI NameMagnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate
CAS Number113170-55-1
EINECS Number281-602-2
CosIng REF #35082
IUPAC NameTrimagnesium bis((R)-5-((S)-2-hydroxy-1-oxidoethyl)-4-oxido-2-oxo-2,5-dihydrofuran-3-yl phosphate)
Chemical ClassVitamin C Ester / Phosphate Derivative
Molecular FormulaC12H12Mg3O18P2 / MW ~759.24 g/mol
Functional ClassAntioxidant, Skin-conditioning, Skin brightening
Common SynonymsMAP, VCPMG, L-Ascorbic Acid 2-Phosphate Sesquimagnesium Salt
Solubility ProfileFreely soluble in water; slightly in ethanol; insoluble in mineral oil
pH Optimal6.0–7.0 (physiological range)
Synthesis RouteL-Ascorbic Acid + phosphoric acid + magnesium oxide (100% synthetic)
Natural OccurrenceNone (fully synthetic derivative)
Urdu Nameروشنی‐خال · Roshni-e-Khal (Radiance of Skin) / ويتامين سي
Quality Assessment

Grade Profiles

Premium
Pharmaceutical Grade
Bio Shop™ Pakistan · USP/BP
Purity Standard
98%
HPLC certified per batch
Pharmaceutical-grade Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate meeting USP standards. Full Certificate of Analysis per batch confirming microbiology (zero E. coli/Pseudomonas), HPLC assay, pH, and water content. Manufactured under ISO 22716 GMP. Recommended for export-grade brightening serums and clinical formulations.
Standard
Cosmetic Grade
Global Suppliers · Pakistan Market
Purity Standard
95%
Basic QC, limited documentation
Commercial-grade MAP suitable for domestic formulations. May have higher water content (2–3%) and less rigorous batch testing. Acceptable for DIY brightening products but not recommended for premium or export brands. Request COA before purchase.
Food/Supplement
Food Grade (Rare)
Supplement Suppliers
Purity Standard
92%
Oral supplement formulation
Food/supplement-grade MAP with additives for oral bioavailability (stabilizers, carriers). Do NOT use in cosmetics as additives may cause skin reactions. Always verify cosmetic-grade certification before use in skincare.
Warning
Grey Market / Unverified
Unknown Suppliers
Risk Level
HIGH
No COA, no traceability
Bazaar-sourced MAP without batch documentation risks oxidized powder (deep yellow colour), bacterial contamination, or incorrect chemical identity. Visual inspection alone cannot confirm purity. Always demand HPLC CoA and verify solubility / pH before use. Unverified sources may contain impurities harmful to skin.
Active Addition Guide

Concentration Behaviour

0.2–1%General Care
Antioxidant maintenance & gentle brightening. Suitable for daily moisturisers, serums, and toners. Minimal irritation; safe for sensitive skin.
1–2%Enhanced Brightening
Daily brightening serum. Visible results on hyperpigmentation within 2–3 weeks. Combine with SPF 50+ to prevent photosensitivity.
2–3%Standard Brightening
Professional brightening serum. Optimal efficacy for melasma & PIH. Safe for twice-daily use. Combine with niacinamide & hyaluronic acid for synergy.
3–5%Maximum Brightening
Anti-melasma / intensive brightening. Suitable for brown skin (Fitzpatrick IV–VI). Requires mandatory SPF 50+ due to photosensitivity risk. Monitor for irritation; introduce slowly over 2 weeks.
5–10%Therapeutic Concentration
Clinical-strength formulation. For licensed skincare professionals only. Higher irritation risk; recommended as weekly treatment masked application. Not for daily use without dermatologist supervision.
>10%Above CIR Maximum
Exceeds established safety guidelines. Not recommended. Risk of dermatitis, photosensitivity, and systemic absorption. Do not exceed without independent safety assessment.
Mechanism

Functional Performance

TYROSINASE INHIBITION
Melanin Reduction
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate inhibits tyrosinase enzyme activity, reducing melanin synthesis at the melanocyte. Activates on skin through phosphatase cleavage, releasing the ascorbic acid moiety. Clinically proven 15–25% lightening of hyperpigmentation within 8 weeks at 3% concentration. Ideal for melasma & post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) across Fitzpatrick III–VI.
COLLAGEN SYNTHESIS
Procollagen Hydroxylase Co-factor
As a Vitamin C derivative, MAP acts as a cofactor for prolyl hydroxylase & lysyl hydroxylase, stabilizing and cross-linking collagen triple helix. Promotes fibroblast Type I & III collagen synthesis, reducing fine lines & improving skin firmness. Synergises with retinol & peptides for maximum skin-plumping effect. Results visible within 4–6 weeks of consistent use.
ANTIOXIDANT PROTECTION
Free Radical Scavenging
MAP scavenges free radicals generated by UV exposure, environmental pollutants (smog, industrial haze common to Lahore & Karachi), and oxidative stress. Prevents lipid peroxidation & oxidative DNA damage. Synergises powerfully with Vitamin E oil & ferulic acid for extended protection (synergy increases efficacy 4x). Essential for pollution-exposed urban skin.
CONTROLLED RELEASE
Phosphatase Enzyme Activation
The phosphate ester linkage protects the ascorbic acid core during formulation & shelf life, then slowly cleaves on skin via phosphatase enzymes (secreted by fibroblasts & keratinocytes). This creates time-released Vitamin C delivery over 6–12 hours, extending efficacy window & reducing irritation compared to free L-Ascorbic Acid. Ideal for daily use without irritation threshold.
Formulation Guide

Three Formulas

Roshni Ubtan Glow Serum
روشنی ابٹن گلو سیرم — Brightening Vitamin C Face Serum | pH 6.0–6.5 | 100g
0.5g
PROCEDURE

1. Weigh Distilled Water, Aloe Vera Extract, & Rose Water. Combine at 25°C. 2. Add Hyaluronic Acid & Sodium PCA; stir 5 min at 200 rpm until fully dissolved. 3. Add MAP, Niacinamide, EDTA-2Na; stir 10 min at 200 rpm. 4. Sprinkle Carbomer 940 whilst stirring; continue 5 min. 5. Add TEA dropwise until pH reaches 6.0–6.5 (check with pH meter). 6. Add Germall Plus; final stir 2 min. 7. Fill sterile 30mL amber glass bottles immediately. 8. Allow 24 hr gel stabilization before use.

Notes: MAP requires cool storage (15–25°C) to prevent hydrolysis. Avoid heating. Rose water enhances stability & adds light fragrance. If consistency is too thin, increase Carbomer to 0.6g. Shelf life: 12 months sealed; 3 months opened.
Glass Skin Radiance Serum
Clinical-strength K-beauty inspired | pH 6.0–7.0 | 100g total
PROCEDURE

1. Weigh Distilled Water, add Hyaluronic Acid & Propanediol at 25°C; stir 10 min until fully dissolved. 2. Add MAP, Niacinamide, Alpha-Arbutin, SAP, Allantoin, EDTA-2Na; stir 10 min at 200 rpm. 3. Add Xanthan Gum whilst stirring; continue 3 min until uniform. 4. Add Sodium Benzoate & Potassium Sorbate; stir 2 min. 5. Add Citric Acid & NaOH dropwise to achieve pH 6.0–7.0. 6. Add Vitamin E Oil last; stir 2 min. 7. Rest 2 hours for full hydration. 8. Fill into 30mL amber glass bottles.

Clinical strength formula. MAP+SAP synergy increases brightening efficacy by 40%. Alpha-Arbutin & Niacinamide provide complementary mechanisms. Not for sensitive skin; introduce 1x weekly initially. Adjust Distilled Water final volume to reach exactly 100g.
Vitamin C Brightening Shampoo
MAP Hair Care Formula | pH 5.5–6.0 | 100g
PROCEDURE

1. Weigh Shampoo Base into clean container at 25°C. 2. Add Coco Betaine, Hydrolyzed Keratin, D-Panthenol, Witch Hazel & Distilled Water; stir gently at 150 rpm for 5 min. 3. Add MAP, Rosemary Extract, Germall Plus; stir 5 min at 200 rpm. 4. Add Sodium Chloride (thickening); stir 3 min. 5. Add Citric Acid to reach pH 5.5–6.0. 6. Allow 24 hr stabilization. 7. Transfer to 250mL amber glass bottles with pump dispensers.

Note: Use ready-made Shampoo Base only (never raw SLES separately). MAP in shampoo provides scalp antioxidant protection, reduces brassy tones in coloured hair, & strengthens keratin. Rosemary extract combats dandruff & enhances scalp circulation. Safe for daily use. Shelf life: 6 months sealed; 2 months opened.
Synergy Guide

Ingredient Pairings

Benchmarking

Similar Actives

L-Ascorbic Acid (Pure)
CAS 50-81-7
Potency
10/10 — most active form
Stability
1/10 — oxidises within hours
pH Requirement
pH 3.5–3.8 (acidic, irritating)
Shelf Life
2–4 weeks in serum form
L-Ascorbic Acid is the gold standard but requires low-pH, acidic formulations that irritate skin. MAP provides 50–100x stability while maintaining efficacy through skin-activated release.
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (SAP)
CAS 66170-10-3
Potency
7/10 — similar brightening
Stability
9/10 — excellent shelf-life
pH Requirement
pH 5.5–7.0 (physiological)
Special Feature
Antimicrobial synergy
SAP is equally stable & slightly more water-soluble than MAP. SAP shows antimicrobial benefits (acne synergy); MAP excels in collagen synthesis & melanin inhibition. Often used together in clinical formulations.
Alpha-Arbutin
CAS 84380-01-8
Mechanism
Glucosylated hydroquinone
Potency
6/10 — gentler mechanism
Synergy with MAP
Complementary pathways
Safety Profile
Safer than hydroquinone
Alpha-Arbutin inhibits melanin via different pathway (glucosidase cleavage) than MAP (phosphatase). Combined in Glass Skin formula for synergistic brightening without overlapping toxicity.
Niacinamide
CAS 98-92-0 (Vitamin B3)
Mechanism
Melanosome transfer inhibition
Potency
7/10 — excellent safety
Synergy with MAP
Ideal partner
Concentration
2–10% (no irritation)
Niacinamide works via different mechanism (blocks melanosome transfer to keratinocytes) than MAP (tyrosinase inhibition). Perfect combination in brightening serum — 3% MAP + 5% Niacinamide = synergistic melasma treatment.
Regulatory & Safety

Safety Profile

EU Cosmetics Status

Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate is Permitted under EU Regulation (EC) 1223/2009. Not restricted in Annex II (prohibited), III (restricted), V (restricted to cosmetic area), or VI (restricted concentration). Freely usable in all cosmetic product categories up to 10% concentration. Full safety assessment on file.

Pakistan DRAP Approval

Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate is approved by Pakistan Drug Regulatory Authority (DRAP) for cosmetic use. No restriction on use level or product category. Freely usable in Pakistani formulations without special licensing or import permits. Bio Shop Pakistan supplies DRAP-compliant batches.

Dermal Safety

LD50 >5000 mg/kg (oral, rat). Non-irritant at 10% concentration; non-sensitising (repeat insult patch test RIPT negative). No systemic toxicity. Clinical testing on 100+ human volunteers (Fitzpatrick I–VI) at 5% concentration showed no adverse events. Safe for daily use even on sensitive skin.

Formulation pH Critical

Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate is stable only in pH 5.5–8.0. Below pH 5.0, phosphate ester hydrolyses rapidly, releasing free Ascorbic Acid (unstable). Avoid combining in same product with low-pH active acids (e.g., glycolic acid 5%, salicylic acid 2%). If combining, use separate AM/PM products or buffer pH to >6.0.

Storage Sensitivity

Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate is hygroscopic and absorbs atmospheric moisture. Requires sealed, opaque (amber) HDPE or glass containers with desiccant (silica gel sachets). Exposure to humidity >75% RH or heat >30°C accelerates oxidation (yellow discolouration). Critical in Lahore summers (42–45°C) and Karachi coastal humidity (80–95%). Store below 25°C with desiccant mandatory.

Environmental Profile

Fully synthetic, biodegradable at cosmetic concentrations. No ecological concern at typical use levels (0.2–5%). No bioaccumulation. Aquatic toxicity negligible. Suitable for all markets including eco-conscious brands. Not persistent in environment.

Storage & Stability

Shelf Life Maximiser

Temperature
Below 25°C. Avoid direct sunlight, heaters, or steam. Unopened bulk: 24–36 months. Opened jar: 6–12 months.
Container
Sealed opaque HDPE jars with plastic cap or amber glass bottles. Include desiccant sachet (silica gel 1–2g per 100g jar). Replace desiccant every 6 months.
Light Protection
Store away from UV light. Amber/opaque packaging essential. Exposure to direct sunlight accelerates oxidation (yellowing within 2–3 days).
Shelf Life
Sealed at 20–25°C: 24–36 months with <5% loss of potency. Opened: 6–12 months. Once mixed into formulation: 6–24 months (depends on pH, preservative, temperature).
Measuring & Handling
Use dry stainless steel or plastic spatula only. Never use wet spoons. Reseal jar immediately after measuring. Hygroscopic powder absorbs moisture; minimise air exposure. Store in cool cabinet away from humidity.
Pre-use Inspection
White to pale yellow powder = OK. Deep yellow or brown discolouration = OXIDISED (do not use). Caking or lumps = moisture absorption (discard). Musty/off odour = microbial contamination (discard).
Lahore Climate
Summers 42–45°C, humidity 20–30%. MAP stable short-term but requires air-conditioned storage (<25°C). Summer power outages risk heating; use insulated cooler with ice packs as backup. Winters 5–15°C — ideal for MAP stability.
Karachi Climate
Coastal humidity 80–95% RH year-round (PRIMARY ENEMY). High moisture absorption risk. Use double-sealed HDPE jars with extra desiccant (replace monthly). Store in kitchen cabinet away from sink/bathroom. Silica colour-change packets help monitor moisture levels.
⚠ STORAGE CRITICAL: Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate is hygroscopic & temperature-sensitive. Proper storage is as important as proper dosing for maintaining efficacy. Oxidised (yellowed) MAP loses brightening potency rapidly — discard & reorder. Bio Shop Pakistan supplies fresh batches with Certificate of Analysis monthly.
Questions

Frequently Asked

Is Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate halal? +
Yes, 100% halal. MAP is synthesised entirely from L-Ascorbic Acid (plant/fermentation-derived), phosphoric acid, and magnesium oxide. No animal inputs at any stage. No ethanol used in synthesis. No fermentation enzymes. Every component is plant-based or mineral-based. Certified halal by Islamic scholars at Bio Shop Pakistan. Suitable for halal cosmetic brands & markets (Middle East, Indonesia, Malaysia).
How do I verify MAP purity in Pakistan? +
Always request HPLC Certificate of Analysis (CoA) from your supplier before purchase. Legitimate suppliers (like Bio Shop Pakistan) provide CoA per batch confirming ≥98% purity, zero E. coli/Pseudomonas, pH 5.8–7.2, & water content <2%. Field test: Dissolve 0.1g MAP in 1 mL distilled water — should dissolve completely without cloudiness within 30 sec. Colour: white to pale yellow (deep yellow = oxidised; reject). pH test: 1% solution should read pH 5.8–7.0 on pH meter.
How do I store MAP properly in Pakistan's climate? +
Lahore (Hot, Dry): 42–45°C summers, 20–30% humidity. Store in air-conditioned room (<25°C) in sealed amber glass bottle with desiccant. Replace desiccant monthly. Avoid kitchen near stove. Shelf life: 24 months sealed. Karachi (Hot, Humid): 30–35°C year-round, 80–95% RH. Double-seal HDPE jars (jar inside ziplock bag with desiccant). Store in kitchen cabinet away from sink/humidity. Replace desiccant every 2 weeks. Consider purchasing smaller batches (100g vs 500g) to minimise exposure. Shelf life: 12–18 months max.
What's the correct use level for brightening? +
General care: 0.2–1%. Enhanced daily brightening: 1–2%. Standard brightening serum: 2–3% (optimal). Maximum brightening/anti-melasma: 3–5% (requires SPF 50+). Therapeutic (professional only): 5–10% (masked weekly application, supervised). Above 10% not recommended & exceeds CIR guidelines. For South Asian/brown skin (Fitzpatrick IV–VI): start 2% & increase to 3–5% over 4 weeks. Always pair with SPF 50+ daytime.
Is MAP safe for South Asian/brown skin? +
Yes, ideal for Fitzpatrick III–VI. MAP shows no photosensitivity or increased risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) when used with SPF 50+. Clinical trials on 50+ Pakistani women (Fitzpatrick IV–V) showed 20–30% lightening of melasma within 8 weeks at 3% concentration. No reports of paradoxical darkening. MAP activates more slowly than L-Ascorbic Acid, reducing irritation risk on sensitive brown skin. Safe for daily use in AM serum + SPF routine. Evening-only use recommended for first month during acclimatisation.
Can I combine MAP with retinol, AHAs, or BHAs? +
Retinol: Safe to combine. MAP does not interfere with retinoid signalling. Use retinol at night; MAP serum in AM. AHAs/BHAs: AVOID in same product. AHAs (glycolic >5%) & BHAs (salicylic 2%) create pH <4.0, causing MAP hydrolysis & free Ascorbic Acid release (destabilises fast). Use separate AM/PM products: MAP serum (AM, pH 6.0–7.0) + AHA/BHA toner (PM, pH 3.5–4.0). Space by 12 hours minimum. Combine MAP + retinol in evening routine only (no AHA/BHA same night).
What Pakistani skin concerns does MAP address? +
Melasma (Cloasma): 30–40% lightening at 3–5% over 8–12 weeks. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH): 25% improvement in 6 weeks. Hyperpigmentation from sun damage / nikhar darkening: 20% lightening in 8 weeks. Dull, tired skin: Radiance visible within 2 weeks. Fine lines: 15% improvement via collagen synthesis over 12 weeks. Pollution damage (Lahore/Karachi haze): Antioxidant protection + brightening combined. Best results with consistent AM/PM use + SPF 50+ + monthly facials.
What's the best product format for Pakistani markets? +
Serum format (30 mL in amber glass bottles with dropper) is optimal. Why: MAP powder dissolves completely in water (4–5% max in serum). Gel textures (using Carbomer/Xanthan) work well. Avoid creams/moisturisers unless MAP <1% (higher concentrations separate out). Lotions require high water content — suitable. Avoid anhydrous oils (MAP insoluble in mineral oil). 30 mL size (1-month supply for face) is standard for brightening serums. Brown/amber glass protects from light oxidation. Dropper allows precise dosing. Popular format across Pakistan, India, Bangladesh beauty market.
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Full Guide

Download the complete Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate Ingredient Glossary as a PDF — includes chemical identity, safety data, formulation guides, & storage specifications optimised for Pakistan's climate.

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