Tocopheryl Acetate ((Alpha-tocopheryl Acetate or ATA), which is frequently encountered in dermatological products such as skincare products and dietary supplements, is a byproduct of vitamin E. It can be obtained synthetically, or from products of natural origin that are extracted like soybean, sunflower seed oil. The formula of Alpha-tocopheryl Acetate is C31H52O3.
Vitamin E is a vitamin that supports the natural balance of the immune system of the body and helps the renewal of the cells. It is also a vitamin that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in the daily diet. For this reason, it is likely possible to encounter Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate in many products these days.
Vitamin E can be found in the form of tocopheryl or tocotrienol in nature. It is known that both of these vitamin E forms also have alpha, beta, gamma, and delta forms.
Chemical Properties of Alpha-Tocopheryl Acetate
Alpha-tocopheryl Acetate is a fat-soluble liquid that dissolves at room temperature. It has three chiral centers and eight stereoisomers. It is obtained by the esterification reaction of acetic acid, which is an organic acid and one of the smallest carboxylic acids, and the chemical composition of alpha-tocopherol (AT). Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate doesn't boil at atmospheric pressure and starts to degrade at 240°C.
Alpha-tocopheryl Acetate Is More Ideal For a Long Shelf Life
Alpha-tocopheryl (AT) is the most active form of vitamin E in humans. However, due to its high stability, Alpha-tocopheryl Acetate better withstands environmental factors such as heat, air, and light. The Phenolic Hydroxyl group (phenols and phenolics) provides a less acidic product since it is blocked. Therefore, it is more ideal for use in products with a long shelf life.
What Is Tocopheryl Acetate Found In?
Tocopheryl Acetate can be found in cosmetic products, dietary supplements, and foods.
In Cosmetic Products
It is considered that Tocopheryl Acetate can be helpful to prevent the skin damage that was done by skin radicals, which were exposed to UV rays and can have an anti-inflammatory effect on the skin. It is also possible to find Tocopheryl Acetate in skincare products for its antioxidant feature.
In Dietary Supplements
Tocopheryl Acetate is used in multivitamins and E vitamin supplements for its high stability. When Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate is taken orally, it is converted to alpha-tocopherol in the intestine.
In Foods
It is found in foods in addition to dietary supplements. Tocopheryl Acetate can be obtained from the following foods:
• Green leafy vegetables such as broccoli and spinach
• Oils such as sunflower seed oil, wheat germ oil, maize oil
• Sunflower seed
• Almond, peanut, etc.
• Whole grains
• Fruits such as kiwi and mango
