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Moumoujus

KETOGLUTARIC ACID.

Valuable CAS 328-50-7 / DEODORANT

Ketoglutaric Acid, also known as Alpha-KG, is a vital cellular metabolite that powers key energy cycles within the skin. It delivers multifaceted benefits, notably reducing the appearance of wrinkles, enhancing skin firmness, and significantly boosting hydration and barrier function.

Summary

Anti-aging Antioxidant Hydrating Skin barrier support Collagen boosting Firming Wrinkle reduction Skin gloss enhancement Natural moisturizing factor (NMF)

Science

Mechanism of Action

As a crucial intermediate in the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, Alpha-ketoglutaric acid is fundamental to cellular energy production and metabolic processes. Its antioxidant capacity stems from direct interaction with hydrogen peroxide and reduction of reactive oxygen species. In the skin, Alpha-KG activates cell proliferation and up-regulates epidermal gene expression for filaggrin (FLG), serine palmitoyltransferase (SPT), and involucrin (IVL), thereby strengthening the skin barrier and promoting hydration. Furthermore, it is integral to amino acid synthesis, stimulates procollagen production, and enhances prolidase activity, all critical for robust collagen synthesis and stability by serving as a cosubstrate for prolyl-4-hydroxylase. It is also recognized as a natural moisturizing factor (NMF).

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 1–1%
Optimal

1%

Key findings

  1. 01 A 1% concentration demonstrated an immediate 23.64% reduction in overall wrinkle/fine lines (Day 0). By Day 7, it achieved a 15.23% reduction in outer corner wrinkles and a 25.68% reduction in nasolabial groove wrinkles. Extended use to Day 56 showed a 25.42% reduction in crow's feet, a 41.40% increase in skin firmness, and a 28.67% increase in skin gloss.
  2. 02 A 1% concentration was observed to reduce the appearance of wrinkles over 12 weeks. In vitro, it stimulated procollagen production and enhanced prolidase activity in human dermal fibroblasts, and in vivo, it decreased UVB-induced wrinkle formation in hairless mice.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 3.5 – 7
0 7 14

Stability

Avoid temperatures exceeding 60°C to maintain stability.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Sensitization risk Unknown

No specific safety assessment from CIR or SCCS is available. While recognized by the FDA for food use or as an additive with limited toxicity information, no specific cosmetic status or restrictions have been identified. EWG Skin Deep indicates a 'low_moderate' concern for multiple, additive exposure sources but notes it is 'not expected to be potentially toxic or harmful' by Environment Canada.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
No Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Unknown
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Ketoglutaric Acid is a valuable multi-functional ingredient demonstrating significant anti-aging efficacy, including wrinkle reduction, improved firmness, and enhanced skin hydration, supported by its role in cellular metabolism and collagen synthesis.

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