Levulinic Acid
A plant-derived acid that works as a mild preservative and pH adjuster, often paired with sodium levulinate. Well tolerated. Sometimes listed as part of a fragrance because of its faint scent.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
Frequently asked questions
Is Levulinic Acid safe during pregnancy?
Levulinic Acid is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Levulinic Acid for?
Levulinic Acid suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Levulinic Acid and what does it do in cosmetics?
A plant-derived acid that works as a mild preservative and pH adjuster, often paired with sodium levulinate.
What's the INCI name for Levulinic Acid?
The INCI name is Levulinic Acid. It may also appear as: 4-Oxopentanoic Acid.
See Levulinic Acid 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 role in the formula
Other functional ingredients
Linalyl Acetate, Lithothamnion Calcareum Extract, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Magnesium Chloride, Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate, Sodium Myreth Sulfate, Anethole, Crambe Abyssinica Seed Oil
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