Alanine
Non-essential amino acid. Part of the skin's natural moisturizing factor (NMF), humectant.
Evidence by route
Topical application
NMF component. Safe, supports hydration.
How to read tiers A–F
- BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Oily, Combination, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Alanine is a non-essential α-amino acid with a methyl side chain. A natural component of proteins and of the skin's natural moisturizing factor (NMF). Synthesized in the body from pyruvate. Mechanism. Part of NMF – the hygroscopic mix of low-molecular-weight compounds in the stratum corneum that holds water in the epidermis. Alanine binds water through free hydroxyl and amino groups. Alanine accounts for about 5% of NMF. Where applied. Moisturizers and serums (0.1–1%), micellar waters, toners, creams for very dry and atopic skin. Often included in NMF amino acid blends with serine, glycine, proline, histidine. Brands: Sesderma Hidraderm Hyal, La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+, CeraVe Hydrating. Evidence base. Few direct RCTs with endpoints for alanine alone. The main clinical base is studies of NMF amino acid blends in atopic dermatitis and xerosis: barrier restoration, lower TEWL, less itch. Safety. CIR confirmed safety of amino acids in cosmetics. Hypoallergenic, non-irritating, non-comedogenic. Topical systemic absorption is minimal. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Acceptable at any stage on any area. Functional role. Weak humectant on its own; valuable within an NMF amino acid blend.
Frequently asked questions
Is Alanine safe during pregnancy?
Alanine is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Alanine for?
Alanine suits: normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive.
What is Alanine and what does it do in cosmetics?
Non-essential amino acid.
What's the INCI name for Alanine?
The INCI name is Alanine. It may also appear as: L-Alanine.
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Alanyl Glutamine, Algae Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Polysaccharides, Alteromonas Ferment Extract, Collagen Water, Histidine HCl, Lysine HCl, Prunus Domestica Seed Oil
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