Science
Mechanism of Action
Eriodictyol operates by directly neutralizing intracellular Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), thereby mitigating oxidative stress induced by factors like UVA exposure. It enhances the skin's natural antioxidant defense system by boosting enzymes such as catalase and glutathione peroxidase. Its anti-inflammatory action stems from its ability to suppress key inflammatory cytokines, including IL-4 and IL-6, and by inhibiting the MAPK signaling pathway. For photoaging prevention, Eriodictyol down-regulates Matrix Metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1), an enzyme that degrades collagen, while simultaneously up-regulating Tissue Inhibitory Metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP-1) and collagen-I (COL-1) production. Furthermore, it demonstrates antimicrobial and antibiofilm capabilities against common skin pathogens.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Medium confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 In vitro studies demonstrate that Eriodictyol, at concentrations ranging from 5-20 µM, effectively reduces UVA-induced Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) generation and oxidative damage. It transcriptionally up-regulates collagen-I and TIMP-1, while down-regulating MMP-1, indicating significant anti-photoaging potential and protection against photodamage via inhibition of the MAPK pathway.
- 02 At 5-80 µM concentrations, Eriodictyol has been shown to enhance skin cell viability, promote elasticity, and increase resilience in human dermal fibroblasts by safeguarding them from H2O2-induced oxidative damage through strengthened antioxidant machinery (in vitro).
- 03 Eriodictyol exhibits notable antibacterial activity against skin pathogens and prevents biofilm formation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa at minimal inhibitory concentrations between 0.025-0.2 mg/mL, concurrently reducing inflammatory markers like IL-6 and superoxide in keratinocytes (in vitro).
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
There is no current data suggesting Eriodictyol is commonly associated with ingredient dusting in cosmetic formulations.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Eriodictyol exhibits poor water solubility, with reported values of <0.1 mg/mL or 0.07 mg/mL at 20 °C, though it is slightly soluble in boiling water. It is soluble in organic solvents such as methanol, hot ethanol, ether, glacial acetic acid, dilute alkali, and DMSO (up to 125 mg/mL). Effective solubilization strategies are necessary for its inclusion in water-based cosmetic formulations. It is a solid at room temperature and should be stored under an inert gas, such as nitrogen, to maintain stability. Moisture contamination can significantly impair its solubility in DMSO.
Safety
Safety Profile
Eriodictyol has not been directly reviewed by CIR or SCCS. While the raw chemical's GHS classification indicates potential for skin, eye, and respiratory irritation, some research suggests it is non-toxic and non-irritating at functional concentrations within cosmetic formulations, including sunscreens. The FDA lists (+/-)-Eriodictyol as a Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) flavoring agent for food use.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Eriodictyol is a valuable flavonoid offering significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and photoaging protection, making it a promising ingredient for comprehensive skin health and resilience.
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References
Sources