INCI: Acetyl Glucosamine
Amino sugar, a precursor of hyaluronic acid. Inhibits tyrosinase, so it lightens post-acne marks and melasma, especially when paired with niacinamide. Also supports skin HA synthesis.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
Double-blind RCTs with 2% NAG plus 4% niacinamide reduce visible hyperpigmentation significantly better than placebo over 8–10 weeks. Well tolerated, unlike hydroquinone.
N-Acetyl Glucosamine (NAG) is the acetylated form of the amino sugar glucosamine. A natural substrate for hyaluronic acid and dermal proteoglycan synthesis. In cosmetics used as a brightening, moisturizing, and anti-aging ingredient. Mechanism. Suppresses tyrosinase by inhibiting its glycosylation – reduces melanin production (Bissett 2007). Stimulates hyaluronic acid synthesis in fibroblasts – enhances deep skin hydration. Antioxidant effect. Where applied. Serums and creams for hyperpigmentation, melasma, post-acne marks, moisturizing serums, anti-aging products. Concentration 2–10%. Often combined with niacinamide – synergistically suppress melanogenesis (Bissett 2007). In Spain in Sesderma Acglicolic, Mesoestetic Whitening, Endocare C lines. Evidence base. Double-blind RCT Bissett 2007 (n=202) showed 30% melasma and post-inflammatory pigmentation reduction over 8 weeks with 2% NAG + 4% niacinamide. Less effective than hydroquinone 4% but without irritation and contact allergy. Safety. CIR confirmed safety up to 10%. Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, non-irritating, does not photosensitize. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. The drug of choice for gestational melasma along with niacinamide, ferulic acid, MAP, and SPF 50+. Unlike hydroquinone, permitted in pregnancy. Who it suits. Sensitive skin, melasma, post-acne pigmentation, photoaging, patients with hydroquinone intolerance. Often combined with vitamin C derivatives, niacinamide, retinol.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeSuitable for
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.
N-Acetyl Glucosamine is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
N-Acetyl Glucosamine suits: normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive.
Amino sugar, a precursor of hyaluronic acid.
The INCI name is Acetyl Glucosamine. It may also appear as: N-Acetyl Glucosamine, NAG, GlcNAc.
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