What is Cinnamoylhydroxamic Acid?
Cinnamoylhydroxamic Acid, also known as CHA, is an organic compound derived from Cinnamic Acid, a naturally occurring substance found in a variety of plants, including cinnamon. This compound is a hydroxamic acid, a class of compounds known for their antioxidant properties. The chemical structure of Cinnamoylhydroxamic Acid consists of a cinnamoyl group (a type of aromatic compound) attached to a hydroxamic acid group.
The use of Cinnamoylhydroxamic Acid in cosmetics is a relatively recent development. It was discovered that this compound has several beneficial properties for skin care, leading to its inclusion in a variety of cosmetic products. The process of making Cinnamoylhydroxamic Acid involves the reaction of Cinnamic Acid with hydroxylamine, resulting in the formation of the desired compound.
While there are other ingredients with similar antioxidant and skin-protecting properties, such as Vitamin C and E, Cinnamoylhydroxamic Acid stands out due to its additional chelating ability. This means it can bind to metal ions, preventing them from contributing to oxidative stress and skin damage. This makes it a multifunctional ingredient, offering more benefits than some of its counterparts.
Cinnamoylhydroxamic Acid is typically used in a variety of skin care products, including moisturizers and serums. Its antioxidant, chelating, and skin-protecting properties make it a valuable addition to these products, helping to protect the skin from environmental stressors and maintain its health and appearance.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Cinnamoylhydroxamic Acid:
Antioxidant
As an antioxidant, Cinnamoylhydroxamic Acid plays a crucial role in protecting the skin from harmful free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause damage to the skin cells, leading to premature aging and other skin issues. By neutralizing these free radicals, Cinnamoylhydroxamic Acid helps to maintain the health and vitality of the skin, keeping it looking youthful and radiant.
Chelating
Cinnamoylhydroxamic Acid also serves as a chelating agent. In simple terms, this means it has the ability to bind with metal ions, preventing them from contributing to chemical reactions that could be harmful to the skin. This is particularly beneficial in skincare products as it enhances their stability and effectiveness, ensuring that you get the most out of your skincare routine.
Skin Protecting
Another key function of Cinnamoylhydroxamic Acid is its skin-protecting properties. It forms a protective barrier on the skin’s surface, shielding it from environmental stressors such as pollution, UV rays, and harsh weather conditions. This helps to prevent skin damage and maintain its overall health and appearance.
Please note that these benefits are exclusively based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Cinnamoylhydroxamic Acid. There may be other benefits and uses that go beyond the scope of these official functions, but these are the primary ways in which this ingredient contributes to skincare.
Safety Profile
Cinnamoylhydroxamic Acid is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. However, like any other cosmetic ingredient, its safety and suitability largely depend on its concentration and the way it is used in a product. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics, but it’s always recommended to follow the usage instructions provided by the manufacturer.
As for its allergenic potential, Cinnamoylhydroxamic Acid is not known to be a common allergen. However, individual reactions can vary, and some people may experience sensitivity or allergic reactions to any ingredient. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to do a patch test before using a new product widely.
Potential side effects of topical application of Cinnamoylhydroxamic Acid may include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Swelling
- Burning sensation
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – There is currently insufficient data on the safety of topical use of Cinnamoylhydroxamic Acid during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Therefore, it’s recommended to consult a healthcare professional before using products containing this ingredient during these periods.
Adverse reactions to Cinnamoylhydroxamic Acid are not common, but they can occur, especially in people with sensitive skin. As mentioned earlier, a patch test is recommended before widespread usage.
This ingredient analysis has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator. The analysis was conducted by a TiS-appointed industry consultant, using sources including the CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA), and other various publicly available sources.
