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CYSTEINE/OLIGOMERIC PROANTHOCYANIDIN.

Valuable CAS - / SKIN CONDITIONING

This innovative complex merges the potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins (OPCs) with the protective and reparative qualities of Cysteine. Designed for advanced skincare, it offers superior bioavailability to enhance skin health, hydration, and luminosity.

Summary

Antioxidant Anti-inflammatory Skin Brightening Moisturizing Anti-aging Collagen Booster Skin Conditioning Anti-pigmentation

Science

Mechanism of Action

CYSTEINE/OLIGOMERIC PROANTHOCYANIDIN operates through a dual-action pathway. Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins (OPCs) provide exceptional antioxidant defense, noted to be 50 times more potent than Vitamin E and 20 times greater than Vitamin C, effectively neutralizing free radicals and shielding skin from oxidative and UV-induced damage. They diminish inflammatory responses by downregulating key pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and COX-2. OPCs also target pigmentation by inhibiting melanin synthesis, contribute to skin whitening, and support the production of collagen and elastin, thereby enhancing skin elasticity and reducing visible lines. Concurrently, Cysteine, a vital amino acid and precursor to the master antioxidant glutathione, bolsters the skin's defense against environmental stressors. It aids in wrinkle reduction, collagen synthesis, and improves overall skin tone and texture, while also offering calming effects and reducing trans-epidermal water loss. The complex formulation itself is engineered for superior bioavailability and enhanced antioxidant capacity, acting as a comprehensive skin conditioning agent that prevents dehydration.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Oral intake of red wine Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins (OPCs) at 200 mg/day over 12 weeks demonstrated significant skin whitening and moisturizing effects in healthy women, evidenced by reduced pigmentation scores and melanin index, and increased stratum corneum water content.
  2. 02 Persimmon Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins, at 10 μg/mL in vitro, effectively inhibited the phosphorylation of p65 and its nuclear translocation, leading to a significant downregulation of TNF-α by 50% and IL-6 by 40%, thereby mitigating inflammatory responses.
  3. 03 Topical application of 0.5% Proanthocyanidins on mouse skin markedly reduced COX-2 expression and significantly lowered pro-inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α by 47%, IL-1β by 59%, and IL-6 by 58%, effectively blocking inflammatory signals.
  4. 04 Daily oral administration of 500 mg L-Cystine (a Cysteine form) and 250 mg L-Glutathione for 12 weeks safely and effectively lightened skin and diminished facial dark spot size in Asian women.
  5. 05 Oligomeric proanthocyanidin-L-cysteine complexes have demonstrated superior bioavailability and antioxidant capacity, leading to enhanced survival in animal studies, suggesting improved efficacy when complexed.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

Current research data does not provide information regarding this ingredient being commonly dusted or thresholds for such effects.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 1 – 4
0 7 14

Stability

Both L-Cysteine and Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins exhibit optimal stability in acidic environments, with stability declining significantly as pH approaches neutral or basic ranges. L-Cysteine solutions are particularly prone to oxidation in air, accelerated by oxygen and metal ions, leading to cystine precipitation. To ensure formulation integrity and efficacy, an acidic pH (preferably between 1.0 and 4.0), deoxygenated solvents, and inert gas purging during manufacturing are strongly recommended.

Synergies

  • Vitamin C (OPCs stabilize Vitamin C)
  • Glutathione (Cysteine is a precursor)

Conflicts

  • High pH (above 4.0)
  • Oxygen (leads to oxidation)
  • Metal ions (accelerates oxidation)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Insufficient data
Sensitization risk Low

While specific Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) or SCCS assessments for the combined 'Cysteine/Oligomeric Proanthocyanidin' are not available, its individual components are generally well-regarded for safety. Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins (OPCs) are recognized as non-toxic, natural plant-derived antioxidants. L-Cysteine holds Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) status for food use (21 CFR 184.1271). Acetyl Cysteine, a derivative, has been deemed safe by CIR at concentrations up to 0.1% in cosmetics; however, this concentration is for Acetyl Cysteine and not the complex. The FDA is also exercising enforcement discretion for N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) in dietary supplements, with initial safety reviews revealing no concerns. Given the safety profiles of its constituents, the combined ingredient is considered to have a low sensitization risk for topical use, though comprehensive topical safety data for the complex specifically is limited.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Unknown
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

This Cysteine/Oligomeric Proanthocyanidin complex is a valuable multifunctional ingredient, offering advanced antioxidant protection, anti-inflammatory action, and significant benefits for skin brightening, hydration, and collagen support across all skin types.

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