Science
Mechanism of Action
As a highly lipophilic prostaglandin analogue, Ethyl Travoprostamide penetrates cells via prostaglandin transporters (PGT) to bind with G-protein coupled prostaglandin receptors (GPCRs). This activation initiates secondary signaling pathways, leading to downstream physiological effects, notably the promotion of hair growth, leveraging an observed side effect from glaucoma treatments.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Medium confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 Commercial eyelash growth serums have been found to contain Ethyl Tafluprostamide (an analogue of Ethyl Travoprostamide) within a concentration range of 0.0018% to 0.0176%.
- 02 Concentrations from 0.012% to 0.2% have been noted in products targeting eyelashes, eyebrows, or scalp hair, often referring to the analogue Ethyl Tafluprostamide.
- 03 Cosmetic manufacturers have sought approval for a maximum concentration of 0.018% for Ethyl Travoprostamide (also referred to as Ethyl Tafluprostamide) in cosmetic applications.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
Ethyl Travoprostamide is a potent pharmacological agent, active at minute concentrations, with documented effects at levels as low as 0.0018%. Due to significant safety concerns, including potential reproductive/developmental toxicity, any inclusion, especially at very low concentrations or at the deemed unsafe threshold of 0.018%, raises questions about its true purpose beyond mere marketing claims. Its use is critically reviewed by regulatory bodies.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Highly lipophilic with a reported water solubility of 0.09 mg/L at 25°C and a high octanol/water partition coefficient (log Kow; 5.03). Specific stability data for the raw ingredient is limited, though some product stability tests have been noted for formulations containing analogues.
Safety
Safety Profile
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel is currently assessing the safety of Ethyl Tafluprostamide (an analogue often equated). The SCCS concluded in February 2022 that safe use concentrations could not be determined due to insufficient toxicological data. A preliminary SCCS opinion in June 2025 further stated that Ethyl Travoprostamide cannot be considered safe for use up to 0.018% in eyelash and eyebrow products, citing potent pharmacological activity and an inability to exclude potential adverse reproductive/developmental toxicity, especially concerning young women. The FDA classifies products that promote eyelash growth as drugs, not cosmetics.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Due to its potent pharmacological activity and significant safety concerns, including potential reproductive/developmental toxicity and a lack of data to establish safe use concentrations, Ethyl Travoprostamide cannot be considered safe for cosmetic use by major regulatory bodies.
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References
Sources