Quick answer
An amino acid, which are fundamental building blocks of all proteins in the body; Helps protect skin from environmental aggressors; Helps skin retain moisture; A derivative of methionine Key benefits: Anti-Aging, Hydration.
Acetyl Methionine
Updated
N-acetylmethionine
Purpose
Works as a skin-conditioning agent and antioxidant.
Rating
GOOD
Category
Antioxidant, Humectant
INCI Purpose
SKIN CONDITIONING
Benefits
Alternative Names
At a Glance
An amino acid, which are fundamental building blocks of all proteins in the body
Helps protect skin from environmental aggressors
Helps skin retain moisture
A derivative of methionine
Article
Acetyl methionine is an amino acid that is made in part from another amino acid, methionine. It’s created when one of the amine hydrogens within methionine’s structure is exchanged for an acetyl group. In an acetyl group, one part of a molecule is replaced with another, in this case a blend of three hydrogen, two carbon, and one oxygen molecule. This changes how the whole molecule works, in this case for the better!
Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and are critical to health. When used in skin care, amino acids serve as humectants, helping the skin to retain moisture. Some amino acids, including methionine and acetyl methionine, are also antioxidants, helping skin to mitigate damage brought on by environmental stressors, like the sun and pollution. Their ability to help the skin hold on to moisture and their knack for helping to protect skin from environmental stressors also makes them notable anti-aging agents.
Amino acids work best when paired with other amino acids, natural moisturizing factors, and skin- restoring ingredients such as peptides.
Acetyl methionine is considered safe for skin since it is also safe when used as a direct food additive.
See: Amino Acids, Methionine, Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF)
References