What is Formononetin?
Formononetin, also known as 7-hydroxy-3-(4-methoxyphenyl)-4-benzopyrone, is a naturally occurring compound found in a variety of plants, including red clover, soy, and many others. It belongs to the class of organic compounds known as isoflavones, which are characterized by a 3-phenylchromen-4-one skeleton. This compound is recognized for its antioxidant, skin conditioning, and skin protecting properties, making it a valuable ingredient in the cosmetic industry.
The use of Formononetin in cosmetics can be traced back to its traditional use in herbal medicine. The plants that contain Formononetin have been used for centuries in different cultures for their various health benefits. Over time, the cosmetic industry recognized the potential of this compound and started incorporating it into various products.
Formononetin is extracted from the plants through a process known as solvent extraction. The plant material is soaked in a solvent, which dissolves the Formononetin, allowing it to be separated from the plant material. The solvent is then evaporated, leaving behind the pure Formononetin.
While there are other isoflavones used in cosmetics, such as genistein and daidzein, Formononetin stands out due to its methoxy group. This chemical structure allows it to exhibit stronger antioxidant activity compared to its counterparts. However, like other isoflavones, Formononetin also has the ability to mimic estrogen, which can have beneficial effects on the skin, such as improving elasticity and reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
Formononetin is typically used in a variety of cosmetic products, including moisturizers, serums, and anti-aging creams. Its antioxidant properties help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, while its skin conditioning properties help to keep the skin soft and smooth. Furthermore, its ability to mimic estrogen can help to improve the appearance of aging skin.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Formononetin:
Antioxidant Properties
Formononetin, as an antioxidant, plays a crucial role in protecting the skin from harmful free radicals. These 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, Formononetin helps to maintain the health and vitality of the skin, keeping it looking youthful and radiant.
Skin Conditioning
Another key benefit of Formononetin is its skin conditioning properties. As a skin conditioner, it works to enhance the appearance and feel of the skin. It helps to keep the skin hydrated, soft, and smooth by maintaining the skin’s natural moisture balance. This makes it an excellent ingredient for products aimed at improving skin texture and reducing dryness.
Skin Protecting
Formononetin also serves as a skin protectant. This means it creates a barrier on the skin’s surface, protecting it from environmental stressors such as UV rays, pollution, and harsh weather conditions. This protective layer helps to prevent damage and keep the skin healthy and resilient.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Formononetin. There may be other potential benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond these official functions. However, these additional benefits are not officially recognized and therefore, are not discussed in this article.
Safety Profile
Formononetin, also known as 7-hydroxy-3-(4-methoxyphenyl)-4-benzopyrone, is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic products. However, like any ingredient, it may not be suitable for everyone and there is always a potential for allergic reactions.
While Formononetin is generally well-tolerated, potential side effects of topical application may include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Skin irritation
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – There is currently insufficient data on the safety of topical use of Formononetin during pregnancy or breastfeeding. As such, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
Adverse reactions to Formononetin are not common, but as with any new skincare product, it is recommended to perform a patch test before widespread usage to ensure there is no adverse reaction.
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), as well as other various publicly available sources.
