In lab tests, retinyl palmitate protected skin cells from UV damage by reducing collagen breakdown, preventing cell death, and lowering inflammatory markers (IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α). It also boosted cell repair and regeneration. The research suggests it works through multiple pathways—fighting inflammation, supporting collagen production, and preventing damaged cells from dying.

Researchers used lab-grown skin cells exposed to UVB radiation, then treated them with retinyl palmitate. They measured collagen damage, cell death, inflammation levels, and analyzed gene expression and metabolic changes to understand how it works.

Funding not disclosed in abstract