Science
Mechanism of Action
Myricitrin functions as a powerful antioxidant by directly neutralizing free radicals, thereby reducing oxidative stress and contributing to the delay of skin aging and protection against UV-induced damage. It exerts anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting key inflammatory mediators such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO), while also modulating critical signaling pathways like NF-κB, which helps in alleviating sensitive skin and reducing inflammation. Furthermore, Myricitrin offers photoprotection through the inhibition of matrix metalloproteinases, enzymes responsible for collagen breakdown, which may reduce wrinkle formation and enhance skin elasticity. It accelerates wound healing by promoting tissue repair, augmenting re-epithelialization, and increasing the density of fibroblasts and blood capillaries. Additionally, it provides anti-itch activity by stabilizing mast cells, decreasing histamine levels, and modulating central itch pathways.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Medium confidence20%
Key findings
- 01 In an animal model (wounded rats), topical application led to the formation of a large area of scarring at the wound enclosure and stratified squamous epithelium without papillae, suggesting suboptimal healing.
- 02 In the same animal model (wounded rats), topical application demonstrated superior efficacy, achieving 98.76% wound closure. This concentration was associated with reduced scarring, enhanced re-epithelialization, increased fibroblast and blood capillary density, and a significant decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α) and macrophage CD68 levels.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The provided data does not suggest that Myricitrin is commonly 'dusted' or used at sub-efficacious percentages in cosmetic formulations.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Myricitrin maintains stability when stored at 4°C and protected from light. In solvent, it remains stable for 6 months at -80°C and 1 month at -20°C (when protected from light). Myricetin nanofibers exhibit superior thermostability and photostability, preventing degradation due to light and temperature.
Synergies
- Hyaluronic Acid (for enhanced hydration in face creams)
- Vitamin E (for amplified antioxidant effects in face creams)
- Licorice Extract (for synergistic soothing in sensitive/inflammatory skin serums)
- Vitamin C (for boosted brightening in whitening serums)
- Tranexamic Acid (for enhanced whitening effects)
- Salicylic Acid (for comprehensive anti-acne solutions)
- Tea Tree Oil (for complementary anti-acne benefits)
Conflicts
- Water (poor solubility, limiting aqueous formulations)
- Certain organic solvents (methanol, ethanol, DMSO) used for dissolution, as they may cause irritant dermatitis
- Specific metal ions (e.g., Fe2+/Fe3+-EDTA) combined with hydrogen peroxide (potential pro-oxidant activity)
- Cyanide (can favor autoxidation, leading to superoxide production)
Safety
Safety Profile
Myricitrin (as its aglycone myricetin) is recognized by the FDA as a flavoring agent or adjuvant in food (FEMA Number 4491, GRAS Number 24), suggesting a general safety profile in this context. However, under specific laboratory conditions, such as the presence of cyanide or certain metal ions (Fe2+/Fe3+-EDTA) and hydrogen peroxide, myricetin may exhibit pro-oxidant activity, potentially leading to reactive oxygen species production and DNA degradation. Notably, *in vitro* studies demonstrated extensive protection with serum albumin, and at higher concentrations, DNA damage was observed to decrease. Myricetin nanofibers have also shown reduced cytotoxicity in HaCaT keratinocytes compared to raw myricetin.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Myricitrin is a valuable ingredient for precision skincare, offering broad-spectrum antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and reparative benefits, particularly effective at higher concentrations for skin regeneration and protection, despite limited human clinical data.
Related
Similar Ingredients
Finding similar ingredients…