Vitamin A Retinol
- CAS
- 68-26-8
- EC
- 200-683-7
- Sectors
- Personal Care & Cosmetics, Pharma & Healthcare, Nutraceuticals & Supplements
Vitamin A Retinol (CAS 68-26-8) is a fat-soluble vitamin supplied as a yellow-orange crystalline powder that is sensitive to light and air, and it is used in cosmetics for anti-aging and skin repair, in pharmaceuticals for eye health and immune support, and in food fortification. It is a yellow oily liquid or crystalline solid, density 0.95 g/cm³, melting point 62-64°C, boiling point 137-138°C at 0.0002 mmHg, refractive index 1.641. Soluble in fats and organics, insoluble in water; light-sensitive and oxidizes in air; essential micronutrient for vision and immune function.
Typical Properties
| Molecular formula | C20H30O |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 286.45 g/mol |
| Appearance | Yellow-Orange Powder |
| Form | crystalline |
| Color | yellow to orange |
| Melting point | 62-64 °C |
| Boiling point | 137-138 °C @ Press: 1 x 10-6 Torr |
| Flash point | -26 °C |
| pH | 6.5-7.5 (20°C, 100g/L in H2O) |
| GHS signal word | Danger · Irritant / harmful, Health hazard |
| HS code | 29362100 |
| Grades available | Cosmetic Grade |
Typical literature values for identification; lot-specific results are stated on the certificate of analysis (COA) and the safety data sheet (SDS) that accompany every delivery.
Vitamin A Retinol
Applications
Used in cosmetics for anti-aging and skin repair; in pharmaceuticals for eye health and immune support; in food fortification for nutritional enhancement; in animal feed for growth promotion; in chemical synthesis as precursor; in dermatology for acne treatment.
Safety & Risks
Harmful in high concentrations causing hypervitaminosis A with liver damage; irritates skin and eyes; potential reproductive toxicity and teratogenic effects. Avoid oxidizers and light; stable but oxidizes in air. Hazard not classified but use PPE; monitor for birth defects in excessive doses.
Packaging
Supplied in 1kg or 5kg amber glass bottles to protect from light, or 25kg aluminum drums for bulk, ensuring airtight seals.