What is Hydroxylated Fullerenes?
Hydroxylated Fullerenes, also known as fullerenols, are a type of fullerene derivative. Fullerenes are a class of carbon molecules that are shaped like a hollow sphere, ellipsoid, tube, or many other shapes. These molecules are named after Richard Buckminster Fuller, a renowned architect known for the design of geodesic domes, which resemble the structure of fullerenes. Hydroxylated Fullerenes are created by adding hydroxyl groups (-OH) to the carbon atoms in the fullerene molecule.
The use of Hydroxylated Fullerenes in cosmetic products is a relatively recent development. Fullerenes were first discovered in 1985 by a team of scientists led by Harold Kroto, Richard Smalley, and Robert Curl, who were awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for their discovery. The hydroxylation process was later developed to increase the solubility of fullerenes in water, making them more suitable for various applications, including cosmetics.
The production of Hydroxylated Fullerenes involves the reaction of fullerene molecules with a hydroxylating agent in a suitable solvent. This process results in the addition of hydroxyl groups to the fullerene molecule, increasing its polarity and solubility in water.
Compared to other antimicrobial and skin conditioning ingredients, Hydroxylated Fullerenes offer a unique set of properties. Their spherical structure allows them to trap free radicals, making them effective antioxidants. Moreover, their ability to absorb and disperse light makes them useful in sun protection products.
Hydroxylated Fullerenes are typically used in a variety of cosmetic products due to their antimicrobial and skin conditioning properties. These include moisturizers, serums, sunscreens, and anti-aging products. Their unique properties make them a valuable ingredient in the formulation of these products, contributing to their effectiveness and overall performance.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Hydroxylated Fullerenes:
Antimicrobial Properties
One of the primary benefits of Hydroxylated Fullerenes is its antimicrobial properties. In the context of cosmetics, this means that it can help to protect your skin from harmful microorganisms. These could be bacteria, viruses, or fungi that can cause skin infections or exacerbate skin conditions. By including Hydroxylated Fullerenes in a product, manufacturers are able to offer an added layer of protection for your skin.
Skin Conditioning
Another key function of Hydroxylated Fullerenes is its ability to condition the skin. In layman’s terms, this means that it helps to make your skin feel smoother, softer, and more supple. It achieves this by helping to maintain the skin’s natural moisture balance, preventing dryness and flakiness. This makes Hydroxylated Fullerenes a valuable ingredient in products such as moisturizers, lotions, and serums.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized functions of Hydroxylated Fullerenes. There may be other potential benefits and uses that go beyond these functions, but these would require further research and are not officially recognized at this time.
Safety Profile
Hydroxylated Fullerenes 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 may cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
Some potential side effects of topical application of Hydroxylated Fullerenes include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Skin irritation
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – There is currently insufficient data on the safety of Hydroxylated Fullerenes for topical use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. As such, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before using products containing this ingredient.
While adverse reactions to Hydroxylated Fullerenes are not common, it is always 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.
