Creatine
Natural compound synthesised by the body for muscle energy metabolism. Entered cosmetics from the anti-age segment: the manufacturer claims support for skin cell energy metabolism and an anti-age effect. Particularly common in German brands (Nivea Q10, anti-age line from Beiersdorf).
Evidence by route
Topical application
The manufacturer has published a few studies with positive effects on skin density and wrinkle appearance, but independent replications are absent. Not compared head-to-head with retinoids or vitamin C. Clinically meaningful effect is not established, though tolerability is good.
- Lenz H et al. J Invest Dermatol. 2005;124(2):443-52. PMID 15675966
How to read tiers A–F
- CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Creatine is a nitrogen-containing organic acid, a natural participant in cell energy metabolism. In muscle it's stored as phosphocreatine and donates the phosphate group to regenerate ATP during contraction. The sports industry knows creatine as one of the most studied ergogenic supplements. Mechanism in cosmetics. Manufacturers market topical creatine as 'energy for skin cells': they propose that the molecule penetrates keratinocytes and supports their mitochondrial energy metabolism. In practice, topical creatine penetration through the stratum corneum is limited – the molecule is water-soluble and charged. Where applied. Anti-aging creams and serums, especially from German manufacturers (Nivea Q10 Power, Eucerin Hyaluron-Filler), and in Beiersdorf lines with a 'cellular energy' marketing angle. In Spain these lines are widely available at Mercadona and Druni chains. Evidence base. Knott 2008 (internal Beiersdorf work): topical 0.5% creatine reduced eye-area wrinkle depth over 6 weeks. RCTs on large samples with independent replication – none. The claimed anti-aging effect remains largely a manufacturer-driven finding. Safety. CIR confirmed creatine safe in cosmetic use. Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic. Irritation rare. Systemic absorption through intact skin is low. Pregnancy and lactation – safe topically. Oral creatine supplements during pregnancy are used cautiously in sports medicine, but topical cosmetic concentrations aren't systemically meaningful. Best suited to: mature skin within multi-ingredient anti-aging formulas. Not first-line for anti-age – real wrinkle work is done by retinoids, acids, and fractional lasers.
Frequently asked questions
Is Creatine safe during pregnancy?
Creatine is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Creatine for?
Creatine suits: normal, dry, combination, sensitive.
What is Creatine and what does it do in cosmetics?
Natural compound synthesised by the body for muscle energy metabolism.
What's the INCI name for Creatine?
The INCI name is Creatine. It may also appear as: Creatine Monohydrate.
See Creatine 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.
Similar in action
Explore by category
Published: · updated: