MAGNESIUM ASCORBYLBORATE
Commonly Found In
Overview
Magnesium ascorbylborate is a synthetic vitamin C derivative that combines ascorbic acid with magnesium and borate to provide greater oxidative stability than pure ascorbic acid. Studies suggest it may help deliver antioxidant benefits and melanin-inhibiting activity associated with vitamin C, making it potentially useful in brightening and anti-aging formulations. It is banned in EU cosmetics (Annex II/1396) due to the borate component raising reproductive toxicity concerns under EU boron compound restrictions, but remains permitted in the US and Japan.
Also known as: Magnesium Ascorbylborate, Magnesium Ascorbate Borate
Key Benefits
Studies suggest magnesium ascorbylborate may help provide antioxidant protection and support skin brightening through vitamin C-related mechanisms including tyrosinase inhibition, with improved formulation stability relative to L-ascorbic acid; specific clinical data for this derivative is limited.
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
No comedogenic potential documented
Source: Cosmetic chemistry literature
Irritancy Rating
Generally well tolerated; low irritancy expected based on vitamin C derivative class
Source: Cosmetic use literature
Typical Use Concentration
Range
0.5β3%
Optimal
1β2%
Banned in EU/UK cosmetics (Annex II/1396). Permitted in US and Japan. Used at relatively low concentrations due to improved potency stability.
Works Well With / Avoid
Works Well With
Avoid Combining
Use With Caution
Banned in EU/UK cosmetics (Annex II/1396). Permitted in US and Japan. More stable than ascorbic acid due to boron complexation. EU-compliant alternatives: ascorbyl glucoside, sodium ascorbyl phosphate, 3-O-ethyl ascorbic acid.
Commonly Found In
Global Regulation Summary
Overview of current status across major international markets.
Detailed Regional Status
| Region | Status | Max Conc. | Conditions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πͺπΊ EU | Banned | - | - | Official β |
| πΊπΈ USA | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π―π΅ Japan | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π°π· Korea | Unknown | - | - | Official β |
| π¬π§ UK | Banned | - | Follows EU regulations (II/1396) | Official β |
π Why Regulations Differ
The EU banned magnesium ascorbylborate (Annex II/1396) due to the borate moiety β the EU restricts boron compounds in cosmetics because of developmental and reproductive toxicity from systemic borate exposure, particularly concerning for products applied to large body surface areas. The US and Japan do not apply specific restrictions to borate-containing cosmetic ingredients.
Regulation Analysis
Regional Agreement
Banned in EU, UK but allowed in USA, Japan.
Category Comparison
There are 59 ingredients in the ANTIOXIDANT category. 88% are banned in at least one major market.
Strictness Ranking
πΏ Natural Sources
Not found in nature. A synthetic derivative combining ascorbic acid (vitamin C), magnesium, and borate to create a more stable form of vitamin C.
π How It's Made
Synthesized by complexing ascorbic acid with magnesium and borate under controlled conditions. The borate component helps stabilize the otherwise easily-oxidized vitamin C.
π Uses in Cosmetics
Used in cosmetic products primarily for antioxidant, humectant, skin conditioning.
π¬ Other Applications
Limited non-cosmetic uses. Vitamin C derivatives in general are used in food preservation, dietary supplements, and pharmaceutical formulations.
π‘ Fun Facts
- β’ Vitamin C is notoriously unstable in skincare β it turns brown and loses effectiveness when exposed to air and light, driving the search for stable derivatives
- β’ This ingredient was banned in the EU due to its borate component, as boron compounds are restricted due to reproductive toxicity concerns
- β’ The quest for a stable vitamin C derivative has spawned dozens of different formulations, each claiming to solve the stability problem
Related Skin Concerns
Data Sources
- β’ EU CosIng database (Annex II/1396)
- β’ EU SCCS opinion on boric acid and borates in cosmetics
- β’ Cosmetic chemistry literature on vitamin C derivatives
Last data verification: 2026-04-12
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Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is MAGNESIUM ASCORBYLBORATE banned in the EU but allowed in the US?
The EU follows a precautionary principle, banning MAGNESIUM ASCORBYLBORATE under II/1396 due to potential safety concerns. The US FDA has not found sufficient evidence to prohibit its use, allowing it under different safety assessment standards. This reflects differing regulatory philosophies between the two regions.
Why is MAGNESIUM ASCORBYLBORATE banned in the EU but allowed in Japan?
The EU prohibits MAGNESIUM ASCORBYLBORATE (II/1396) based on their strict safety criteria. Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) has evaluated the ingredient and permits its use, potentially with different safety data or usage conditions.
What is MAGNESIUM ASCORBYLBORATE used for in cosmetics?
MAGNESIUM ASCORBYLBORATE is primarily used for antioxidant in cosmetic products. It also serves as humectant, skin conditioning. The ingredient is commonly found in anti-aging serums and creams.
Which countries regulate MAGNESIUM ASCORBYLBORATE?
MAGNESIUM ASCORBYLBORATE is banned in EU, UK. The ingredient is freely allowed in JP, US.
Are there alternatives to MAGNESIUM ASCORBYLBORATE?
Due to regulatory restrictions on MAGNESIUM ASCORBYLBORATE, cosmetic manufacturers often use alternative ingredients with similar functions. For antioxidant, alternatives may include other approved ingredients in the same category. Consult product labels for specific formulations, and look for products compliant with your region's regulations.
Disclaimer
The information on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. While we strive for accuracy based on official government databases, cosmetic regulations change frequently. Always consult with a qualified professional or refer to the latest official regulatory documents for compliance. We are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided here.