Quick answer
Amino acid naturally present in the body, considered essential to human development; Offers antioxidant benefits when used as a skin care ingredient; Has hydrating properties; Derivatives of arginine can be used to create cosmetic surfactants; Proven track record of safety in personal care product formulas Key benefits: Hydration, Anti-Aging.
Arginine
Updated
L-Arginine
Purpose
Amino acid with antioxidant and hydration properties.
Rating
BEST
Category
Antioxidant, Humectant
INCI Purpose
ANTISTATIC, FRAGRANCE, HAIR CONDITIONING, SKIN CONDITIONING
Benefits
Alternative Names
Hair Profile
Functions
At a Glance
Amino acid naturally present in the body, considered essential to human development
Offers antioxidant benefits when used as a skin care ingredient
Has hydrating properties
Derivatives of arginine can be used to create cosmetic surfactants
Proven track record of safety in personal care product formulas
Article
Arginine is an amino acid naturally present in the body, considered essential to human development. As a skin care ingredient, it delivers antioxidant benefits and plays a role in repairing visible skin damage. Additionally, arginine’s hydration properties have been studied in depth. This essential amino acid plays a key role in skin’s natural production of replenishing substances such as proline and urea.
Arginine may be animal-derived or synthetic; both are equivalent in terms of benefits for skin, and Paula’s Choice uses the latter.
Researchers are currently exploring the use of cosmetic surfactants derived from arginine as a more “biocompatible” alternative to traditional forms.
In the realm of hair care, arginine has been shown to decrease damage from oxidative coloring or bleaching processes.
In 2012, the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel concluded that arginine is safe in the present practices of use and concentration (up to 18%) in cosmetics. It is also known as l-arginine.
References