Adenosine
Natural nucleoside acting via skin adenosine receptors. Stimulates collagen synthesis and improves skin firmness.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Several small clinical studies at 0.04% show modest wrinkle reduction. Manufacturer-sponsored data predominate. Independent large RCTs are absent. Mechanism of collagenogenesis stimulation via A2a receptors is established in vitro.
- Evaluation of anti-wrinkle efficacy of adenosine-containing products using the FOITS technique. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2006;28(6):447-451.. PMID 18489289
How to read tiers A–F
- BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations
Tolerability and safety
- Working concentrations
- 0.04%
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Unknown
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Sensitive, Combination
About this ingredient
Adenosine is a purine nucleoside composed of adenine and ribose. Naturally present in all human cells, it participates in energy metabolism as a component of ATP. In cosmetics it is used as an anti-aging and anti-inflammatory ingredient. Where applied. Anti-aging serums and creams (0.04-0.1%), eye-area products, post-procedure formulations. Very popular in Korean and Japanese cosmetics – the basis of Missha Time Revolution, Innisfree Wrinkle Science, Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng. In Spain prominently used in Sesderma Acglicolic, Endocare Repair. Evidence base. The KFDA approved adenosine as a functional anti-wrinkle ingredient in 2003. Studies (Abella 2006, Hwang 2008) showed 20-30% wrinkle depth reduction over 12 weeks at 0.04-0.1%. Stimulates dermal collagen and elastin synthesis via fibroblast A2A adenosine receptors. Provides additional anti-inflammatory effect. Safety. CIR/SCCS confirmed safety. Hypoallergenic, non-irritating, non-comedogenic. Topical systemic absorption is minimal. Suitable for very sensitive skin and the eye area. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Acceptable at any stage. One of the few anti-aging ingredients with real evidence base permitted in pregnancy (alongside niacinamide, ascorbyl glucoside, peptide complexes). Advantages over retinol. No irritation, photosensitization, or peeling. Allowed in pregnancy and lactation. Effect is milder and develops slower (12 weeks vs 8 for retinol), but is tolerated without adverse effects. Suitable for patients with couperose, rosacea, perioral dermatitis, post-procedure (laser, peels). What to combine with. Peptides (acetyl hexapeptide-8, matrixyl), niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, ceramides. Combination with retinol amplifies the anti-aging effect and reduces retinoid irritation.
Frequently asked questions
Is Adenosine safe during pregnancy?
Safety data for Adenosine during pregnancy is insufficient. Best avoided when in doubt.
What skin types is Adenosine for?
Adenosine suits: normal, dry, sensitive, combination.
What is Adenosine and what does it do in cosmetics?
Natural nucleoside acting via skin adenosine receptors.
What's the INCI name for Adenosine?
The INCI name is Adenosine.
What concentration of Adenosine is effective?
0.04%
See Adenosine in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
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