Description: What is Riboflavin-5-Phosphate Sodium?
Riboflavin-5-Phosphate Sodium, also known as Sodium Riboflavin Phosphate, Flavin Mononucleotide (FMN) Sodium Salt, or simply Vitamin B2 Phosphate, is the phosphorylated, water-soluble derivative of vitamin B2 (riboflavin). While regular riboflavin has very limited water solubility, the phosphate salt form is freely soluble in water (≥50 g/100 mL), making it much easier to incorporate into serums, toners, and water-based creams.
In cosmetics, this ingredient is valued as a skin conditioning agent-it helps keep the skin soft, smooth, and healthy-looking. It provides essential nutritional support to skin cells while also functioning as an antioxidant. The bright yellow to orange-yellow color of the powder can also serve as a natural coloring agent in some formulations.
Biochemical & Physical Parameters
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| INCI Name | SODIUM RIBOFLAVIN PHOSPHATE |
| CAS Number | 130-40-5 |
| EC Number | 204-988-6 |
| Molecular Formula (anhydrous) | C₁₇H₂₀N₄NaO₉P |
| Molecular Weight (anhydrous) | 478.33 g/mol |
| Molecular Formula (dihydrate) | C₁₇H₂₀N₄NaO₉P·2H₂O |
| Molecular Weight (dihydrate) | 514.36 g/mol |
| Purity (riboflavin content) | 73.0–79.0% (on dried basis) |
| Appearance | Yellow to orange-yellow crystalline powder |
| Odor | Almost odorless |
| Taste | Slightly bitter |
| pH (1% solution) | 5.0–6.5 |
| Specific Rotation | [α]²⁰D = +37.0° to +42.0° (c=1.5, 5M HCl) |
| Melting Point | >300°C |
| Solubility in Water | Freely soluble (≥50 g/100 mL at 25°C) |
| Solubility in Ethanol | Practically insoluble |
| Hygroscopic | Yes |
| Light Sensitivity | Sensitive (degrades upon light exposure) |
| Moisture Content | ≤7.5% |
| Ash Content | <25.0% |
| Heavy Metals | ≤20 ppm |
| Storage Temperature | 2–8°C |
| Shelf Life | 36 months (unopened, proper storage) |
| Cosmetic Functions | SKIN CONDITIONING; Skin Protecting Agent |
| China Max Historical Usage (Leave-on) | 0.1% |
| EWG Safety Rating | ① (Low risk) |
How It Works
Here's a simple explanation of how Riboflavin-5-Phosphate Sodium (Vitamin B2) works when applied to the skin:
1. Fights Oxidative Stress and Protects from Photoaging
Once inside the skin, vitamin B2 helps activate the body's natural antioxidant system. It supports an enzyme called glutathione reductase, which recharges glutathione-the skin's main defender against free radicals. This helps protect skin cells from damage caused by UV rays and pollution [1].
A 2010 study further demonstrated that flavin mononucleotide (FMN), another name for this ingredient, can protect the skin from UVA-induced aging. The research showed that FMN significantly reduced the UVA-induced increase in matrix-metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) and skin fibroblast elastase (SFE), two enzymes that break down collagen and elastin, which are key to keeping skin firm and smooth. This suggests that Riboflavin-5-Phosphate Sodium can help prevent photoaging signs like sagging and wrinkles [2].
2. Helps Firm the Skin
When exposed to blue light, riboflavin-5-phosphate can create small crosslinks between collagen fibers. A 2021 study confirmed that this makes the skin tissue tighter and more elastic, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles [3].
3. Boosts Cellular Energy, Calms, and Repairs
The body converts riboflavin-5-phosphate into active coenzymes (FMN and FAD) that are essential for producing ATP-the energy that fuels all cell activities. Healthy energy levels allow skin cells to repair damage and renew themselves more effectively [4]. This process, supported by its antioxidant properties, also helps soothe irritated skin and supports the natural repair process, making it useful for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Benefits & Functional Advantages
1. Powerful Antioxidant Protection
Riboflavin-5-Phosphate Sodium neutralizes free radicals and helps prevent premature skin aging caused by oxidative stress. Supporting the glutathione reductase system, it helps protect skin cells from UV radiation and environmental pollutants. Studies have shown that at 0.1% concentration, it reduces UV-induced lipid peroxidation by 37% [2]. This antioxidant protection is the primary reason it is included in skincare products.
2. Improves Skin Elasticity and Reduces Wrinkles
Through its ability to promote collagen crosslinking when activated by blue light, riboflavin-5-phosphate helps improve skin firmness and elasticity. A 2021 study demonstrated that after photo-crosslinking treatment, skin became 2.8 times firmer (Young's modulus) and 3.5 times stronger (tensile strength), making it a valuable ingredient for anti-aging formulations targeting wrinkle reduction and skin tightening [3].
3. Enhances Skin Barrier Function and Hydration
As a skin conditioning agent, Riboflavin-5-Phosphate Sodium helps maintain a healthy skin barrier by supporting the metabolism of proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates essential for healthy skin. An impaired nutritional status can alter the structural integrity and biological function of skin, resulting in an abnormal skin barrier [4]. By providing essential nutrients to skin cells, it helps keep the skin soft, smooth, and well-hydrated.
4. Soothes Inflammation and Supports Repair
The ingredient exhibits soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for calming sensitive or irritated skin. It can help reduce redness and inflammation associated with acne or rosacea. Additionally, it supports cell regeneration and repair, promoting overall skin health and aiding in wound healing.
5. Promotes Healthy Hair and Nail Growth
Vitamin B2 is essential for maintaining healthy skin, nails, and hair growth. It provides essential nutritional support for cell proliferation and regeneration, which contributes to the normal growth of hair and nails.
6. Provides Natural Yellow Color
Due to its bright yellow to orange-yellow appearance, riboflavin-5-phosphate sodium can also serve as a natural coloring agent in cosmetic formulations, providing a visually appealing hue to products such as serums, creams, and lotions.
Applications
1. Skincare (0.05–0.2%)
- Anti-aging serums & creams – antioxidant protection [1][2], supports collagen crosslinking [3]
- Brightening & radiance treatments – improve skin tone, reduce dullness
- Soothing & calming formulations – reduces redness, calms irritated skin
- Barrier repair creams – support skin barrier function, enhance hydration [4]
- Sun care & after-sun products – provide photoprotection, reduce oxidative stress
2. Hair Care (0.05–0.1%)
- Scalp treatment serums – support healthy scalp conditions, promote hair growth
- Conditioners & hair masks – nourish, strengthen the hair shaft
- Hair growth tonics – provide essential nutrients for follicle health
3. Body Care (0.02–0.1%)
- Body lotions & creams – overall skin conditioning, improves texture
- Hand & foot creams – nourish, repair dry skin
4. Formulation Tips
- Solubility: Freely soluble in water; add directly to the water phase of formulations.
- pH Stability: Stable in pH range 4.0–8.0. Avoid highly alkaline conditions (pH > 8.5).
- Processing: Heat-stable under normal manufacturing conditions.
- Storage Sensitivity: Light-sensitive-degrades upon exposure to light. Finished formulations must be packaged in opaque or amber containers.
- Compatibility: Compatible with most cosmetic ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, vitamin E, and glycerin.
- China Regulatory Limit: Maximum 0.1% in leave-on products.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the typical lead time for commercial orders?
A: For standard 25 kg drums, lead time is typically 7–14 days after order confirmation and payment. Expedited shipping options (air freight, 3–5 days) are available for urgent orders at an additional cost. Sample orders (100–500 g) are processed within 2–3 days.
Q: How can I request samples, and what is the sample policy?
A: Free samples (up to 100 g) are available for qualified buyers. You only pay for the shipping cost. To request a sample, please contact our sales team with your company information and intended application. Samples are typically shipped within 2 business days via express courier (DHL, FedEx, or UPS).
Q: Do you offer smaller packaging sizes than the standard 25 kg drum?
A: Yes. We offer flexible packaging options for customers with lower volume requirements, including 1 kg, 5 kg, and 10 kg foil bags. These smaller packages are ideal for R&D trials, pilot batches, or small-batch production. Please contact us for pricing and availability.
Why Choose Us?
Your Professional Manufacturing & Sourcing Partner
We are more than a supplier - we are a comprehensive supply chain partner dedicated to high-quality ingredients, custom formulations, and finished products across multiple industries.
Professional Expertise
With years of experience in plant extracts, food additives, cosmetic raw materials, and nutritional ingredients, our team brings deep technical knowledge and market insight to every partnership.
01
Diverse Product Range
We offer a broad range of products, including food additives, plant extracts, fruit & vegetable powders, cosmetic actives, and functional food ingredients.
02
One-Stop Shop
Raw Materials: High-purity ingredients for food, beverage, supplement, and cosmetic applications.
Finished Products: In-house manufacturing of capsules, soft gels, gummies, liquid drops, and blended powders.
03
OEM/ODM/OBM Services
Label Design & Packaging: Custom branding tailored to your target market.
Formulation & R&D: Expert support to develop custom blends, proprietary formulas, and innovative products.
Global Logistics: Reliable shipping, documentation, and customs clearance support.
04
Quality Assurance
Strict adherence to GMP standards and full regulatory transparency. We stay current with global requirements, including FDA GRAS, EFSA, and other regional regulations, to ensure your products meet the highest safety and compliance standards.
05
Act Now
Ready to incorporate Riboflavin-5-Phosphate Sodium (Vitamin B2) Powder into your next skincare or haircare innovation?
Contact us today for:
- Certificate of Analysis (COA) and Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)
- Technical formulation support
- Custom packaging options
- Free samples for testing
Please contact us at ella.zhang@huilinbio-tech.com.
References
Hot Tags: riboflavin-5-phosphate sodium powder (vitamin b2), China, suppliers, manufacturers, factory, wholesale, buy, price, bulk, pure, natural, high quality, in stock, for sale, L Ascorbic Acid Powder Vitamin C, Vitamin Series, Pigment Powder, Vitamin B3 Niacinamide Powder, Vitamin H Biotin Powder
