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Moumoujus

Ingredient directory

Butyric Acid

A short-chain fatty acid functioning as a postbiotic metabolite that modulates skin microbiome balance and inflammation. This naturally-occurring compound demonstrates multi-pathway activity through GPR43 receptor agonism and histone deacetylase inhibition to support barrier function and sebum regulation.

Directory entry · Individual source review pending

This profile is awaiting an individual source review. Treat its ratings, dose estimates and compatibility labels as provisional; they are not medical advice or proof of a finished product’s effects.

postbiotic anti-inflammatory barrier repair sebum regulation fragrance ingredient conditioning

Science

Mechanism of Action

Functions as a GPR43 (FFAR2) receptor agonist to downregulate pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and IL-8 while acting as a histone deacetylase inhibitor to promote cellular differentiation and barrier repair. Additionally activates PPAR-gamma pathways to stimulate adipogenesis and potentially enhance dermal volume.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 0.1–1%
Optimal

0.2%

Key findings

  1. 01 0.1% concentration increased skin thickness and improved elasticity/luminosity (Cosmetics & Toiletries 2016)
  2. 02 1.0% effectively reduced sebum production with anti-aging benefits (Cosmetics & Toiletries 2016)
  3. 03 0.2% ameliorated UVB-induced inflammation and reduced epidermal thickness in mouse models (Journal of Investigative Dermatology 2019)
  4. 04 Clinical trial showed 25% reduction in sebum production and improved barrier function in acne-prone individuals (Dermatology Research 2021)

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

Not typically used for marketing dusting due to formulation challenges including strong odor and potential irritancy requiring careful concentration management.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 4.5 – 7
0 7 14

Stability

Highly volatile compound with pKa 4.82, most stable at pH 5.0-6.0. Strong unpleasant odor often necessitates neutralization to sodium butyrate or esterification for consumer acceptability.

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • Strong bases
  • Aluminum and most metals
  • Aliphatic amines

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Sensitization risk Moderate

GHS-classified as corrosive skin irritant in undiluted form but FDA GRAS for food use and RIFM-approved for fragrance at low concentrations. Related esters reviewed by CIR as safe.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Moderate
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Promising postbiotic ingredient with demonstrated anti-inflammatory and sebum-regulating properties, though formulation complexity and odor issues may limit practical applications.

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