Vitamin A Palmitate (Oil-Soluble Vitamin A Cosmetic Active) - Essentially Natural

R89.00

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INCI: Retinyl palmitate

Essentially Natural Vitamin A Palmitate (Retinyl Palmitate) is an oil-based vitamin A derivative commonly used in night skincare routines and DIY formulations. It is supplied pre-dissolved in vegetable oil and stabilised with tocopherol for easier use and better stability. This ingredient is typically chosen to support smoother-looking skin and a more even-looking complexion over time. Because it is a concentrated active, it is best introduced slowly and used primarily in evening products.

Learn more about working with retinyl palmitate.

Also available in Sample Sizes.

Need detailed info? COAs and SDSs are available — just send us the product name and batch number, and we’ll gladly share them with you.

Key properties

INCI Name: Retinyl Palmitate
Form: Oil-based active in vegetable oil, stabilised with tocopherol
Strength: Vitamin A Palmitate (1.0 mIU/g)
Suitable For: Leave-on oils, serums, and oil phases of emulsions
Size Options: 10ml, 20ml, 30ml, 50ml, 100ml, 200ml, 500ml or 1L
Packaging Note: 30ml ships with a pipette top

What it’s used for

This product is commonly used to:

Add a vitamin A active to night serums and facial oils
Support the look of smoother, more refined skin texture
Formulate age-support and glow-focused skincare blends
Pair with antioxidant-rich routines as part of a balanced formula approach
Include in oil phases for creams and lotions designed for evening use

Who it’s for

This product is suitable for:

Experienced DIY skincare makers using oil-based actives
Night routine products aimed at a smoother-looking complexion
Formulators building antioxidant and active focused serums
Those who prefer an oil-based format rather than a water-based retinoid

This product is not for:

Daytime leave-on use without consistent sun protection habits
Very sensitive skin routines that avoid vitamin A derivatives
Anyone wanting a ready-made moisturiser rather than an ingredient

How to use

As a Night Oil: Apply a small amount at night on clean skin, or blend into a carrier oil.
As a Formulation Active: Add into the oil phase of a product and mix thoroughly for even distribution.
Processing Tip: Store and blend away from heat and strong light to help maintain stability.

Safety instructions

For external use only.
Patch test before first use and discontinue if irritation occurs.
Use primarily at night and apply sunscreen during the day, this ingredient can increase sun sensitivity.
Avoid combining in the same routine with strong exfoliating acids if your skin is easily irritated.
Not recommended during pregnancy, seek professional guidance if pregnant or breastfeeding.
Keep out of reach of children and pets.

FAQs

Q: Why is this best used at night?
A: Vitamin A derivatives are commonly used in evening routines because they can increase sun sensitivity and are best supported by daytime sunscreen use.

Q: Can I mix this into my existing face oil?
A: Yes, it can be blended into oil-based products, mix thoroughly for even distribution.

Q: Does this replace moisturiser?
A: No, it is an active ingredient. Many people follow with a moisturiser if their skin prefers extra comfort.

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Wooowwwww!!! Made essentially naturals Retinol

Wooowwwww!!! Made essentially naturals Retinol serum and used this ingredient. Actually I used all their brand oils and actives for the serum. And WOW! After the first use my face was soooo smooth and supple. I didn't even wear makeup that day because I wanted to flaunt my smooth plump skin...lol

Hi there Danae,

This review genuinely made me smile!

There is something incredibly satisfying about hearing that a DIY formulation turned out even better than expected!

Thank you for trusting us with your ingredients and for taking the time to share your results. It truly means a lot.

Wishing you many more successful formulation adventures ahead!
Aiden & The EN Team

Im writing this review after a month of applying

Im writing this review after a month of applying the oil .I heard some patches on my face and they are now fading away
Your natural oils are generally very good. I only use this one as a night oil.Very 👍 👍

Excellent and quick service

Excellent and quick service as always... my skin is soft

Thought the vitamin A Palmitate was a liquid....it is thick...so battling to get it out the bottle. My question....should it be solid? All other products I have purchased have been great

Amazing products Vit A Palmitate and hyaluronic acid 1%

I have been using your products for over a year now. I was very skeptical as I suffer with a very sensitive skin and excema, but they are proving perfect for my 66 year old skin. Delighted to recommend your products.

Vitamin A Palmitate

This serum is very strong, I burnt the skin around my eyes, you should explain the consequences better. This product needs to be deluted.

Too strong for sensitive skin

The serum burnt my skin so badly, it’s still recovering almost 3 months later.

I do not recommend use on sensitive skin.

Great

Been using this for almost 2 weeks and can definitely see massive improvement in my skin texture. Can create peeling however, so make sure to moisturise well. Will continue to use.

retinyl

great product, can I use it for stretch marks.?

Hi Maluleke,
Yes you can

Safe to use daily?

Is this safe to use daily, Is it safe for the skin barrier? What are the ingredients and how different is it from Retinol. Bottom line is that I love the product but would appreciate your answer on the above.

Hi Sanelisiwe, great question! Retinyl palmitate is much weaker and gentler than retinol, so it is safe to use daily. I still recommend using it at night, and using SPF during the day though, just to ensure no UV sensitivity.
It boosts collagen production in the skin, and is great for tackling all the signs of aging.
The ingredients are retinyl palmitate with tocopherol (Vitamin E) in oil.

Amazing results, saw result within few days

Love it

Love it . Can I use hyaluronic acid with it ?

Night Serum

I absolutely love this product. My acne marks are going away and my skin is glowing. Where has this been all my life!?

Vitamin A palmitate

Works wonders. Delivery was so efficient. I can always trust essentially natural for great quality natural products with efficient delivery. Love ❤️

Retinal Palmitate

Hello Naturals, what is the recommended ratio for a night serum between a carrier oil and retinyl palmitate and am I allowed to mix retinyl with my moisturiser?

Hi Tshilidzi, the retinyl palmitate is typically used at 0.5%, and then the rest of the oils will be 99.5%, to add up to a total of 100%.

Yes you can mix it with your moisturiser, I do!
Enjoy!