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Moumoujus

WHEAT GERM ACID.

Questionable CAS 68938-32-9 / CLEANSING, SKIN CONDITIONING, SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

Wheat Germ Acid, often derived from wheat germ oil, is a skin conditioning agent known for its hydrating, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps reinforce the skin barrier and supports skin repair, contributing to a more radiant complexion.

Summary

skin conditioning skin protecting

Science

Mechanism of Action

Its fatty acids form a protective skin barrier, reducing water loss and retaining moisture. Rich in Vitamin E and B-complex vitamins, it acts as a potent antioxidant, neutralizing free radicals and supporting skin elasticity and repair.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Wheat Germ Glycerides were not dermal irritants or sensitizers in HRIPTs at 0.5%.
  2. 02 2% Wheat Germ Glycerides showed no adverse reactions in lipstick in-use studies.
  3. 03 Wheat Germ Oil suppressed pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α) by over 90% in an in vitro study at 100 µg/mL.
  4. 04 Topical wheat germ oil significantly improves skin hydration and reduces roughness within four weeks.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

Information on common dusting practices or specific dusting thresholds for Wheat Germ Acid is not available in the provided research data.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Wheat germ oil is prone to rancidity, requiring antioxidants in formulations for stability. Optimal pH for associated enzymes like lipase is 7.0-8.0, but this doesn't directly apply to the fatty acid component.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Max tested
0.2%
Sensitization risk Moderate

The CIR Expert Panel deems Wheat Germ Glycerides safe with restrictions, up to 0.2% in leave-on facial products. Consumers with wheat allergies should exercise caution. Wheat germ oil has potential irritancy and high comedogenicity ratings.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
No Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Moderate
Comedogenicity High

Our Assessment

Verdict

Questionable

Despite beneficial hydrating and antioxidant properties, the high comedogenicity associated with wheat germ oil makes this ingredient questionable, especially for blemish-prone skin.

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