• Stable, non-irritating form of Vitamin C
• Boosts collagen production and skin firmness
• Fades dark spots and evens out skin tone
• Protects against oxidative stress and free radicals
• Water-soluble and suitable for sensitive skin

MAP (Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate) – Stable Vitamin C Derivative for Radiant Skin

Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (MAP) is a highly stable, water-soluble derivative of Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) that delivers potent antioxidant, brightening, and anti-aging benefits without the irritation commonly associated with pure Vitamin C. MAP is ideal for serums, creams, and lotions, especially for sensitive and acne-prone skin types. It promotes collagen synthesis, fades hyperpigmentation, and enhances skin’s natural radiance. MAP remains stable in a pH range of 5.0–7.0, making it compatible with most skincare systems and less prone to oxidation.

INCI Name: Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate

CAS Number: 113170-55-1

Solubility: Water-soluble

Add Phase: Cool-down (below 40°C)

pH Stability: Best between 5.5 – 7.0

Processing Temperature: Below 40°C

Appearance: White to off-white powder

Odor: Odorless

Molecular Formula: C6H6O9P.Mg

Molecular Weight: 220.42 g/mol

Flash Point: Not applicable

Density: ~1.8 g/cm³

Chemical Type: Phosphorylated vitamin C derivative

Functional Groups: Phosphate ester, alcohol

Primary Cosmetic Uses: Brightening serums, anti-aging creams, sun care, sensitive skin formulations

• Usage Rate: 1% – 10%
• Phase: Add in cool-down phase (below 40°C)
• Ideal For: Serums, Creams, Eye Gels, Brightening Masks, Spot Treatments

🌟 To get the most from MAP, use a final pH between 5.5 and 6.5 and pair with niacinamide or panthenol for enhanced brightening and barrier support. Avoid adding to high-heat emulsions or low-pH formulas.

✔️ Excellent for sensitive and acne-prone skin

✔️ Safe for dry, oily, combination, and mature skin types

✔️ Does not oxidize or cause stinging like ascorbic acid

1. Daily Brightening Serum

Use 5% MAP in a hydrating base with panthenol and glycerin to fade spots and even tone.

2. Anti-Aging Day Cream

Add 3% to a peptide-rich emulsion to support collagen and fight fine lines.

3. Eye Treatment Gel

Use 2% with caffeine and niacinamide for dark circle and puffiness control.

4. After-Sun Repair Lotion

Blend 2–4% MAP with aloe vera and allantoin to reduce oxidative stress and calm redness.

5. Acne-Prone Skin Gel

Combine 5% MAP with zinc PCA and licorice extract for brightening and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Serums
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Excellent
🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 – Best form of Vitamin C for sensitive skin serums.



Creams & Lotions
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Adds antioxidant and firming benefits to emulsions.



Toners
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Effective in brightening and soothing mists.



Face Masks
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Useful in brightening and revitalizing masks.



Cleansers
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜ – Short contact time may reduce efficacy.



Hair Masks
⭐☆☆☆☆ – Poor
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Not used in hair formulations.



Deodorants
⭐☆☆☆☆ – Poor
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Not applicable.



Eye Creams
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Gentle and brightening for the delicate eye area.



Shampoos
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Suitable
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Not used in shampoos.



Soaps
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Suitable
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Not suitable due to high pH.



Conditioners
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Suitable
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Incompatible with hair rinse-off formulas.



Lip Balms
⭐☆☆☆☆ – Poor
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Not used in anhydrous balms.



Body Butters
⭐☆☆☆☆ – Poor
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Not waterless formula compatible.



Ointments
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜ – Can be used in aqueous gel-based ointments.

Q1: Is MAP the same as pure Vitamin C?

A1: It’s a stable derivative, less potent but gentler and longer-lasting.

Q2: Can I use MAP during the day?

A2: Yes — it’s photostable and works well under sunscreen.

Q3: Is MAP good for acne-prone skin?

A3: Absolutely — it’s non-irritating, reduces inflammation, and fades acne marks.

Q4: Can it be used in oily or dry skin products?

A4: Yes — MAP is versatile and suits all skin types, especially sensitive or dry skin.

Q5: How does it compare to Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (SAP)?

A5: MAP is generally more stable but slightly more expensive, both are excellent choices.