What is Niacinamide Thioctate?
Niacinamide Thioctate, also known as 3-Pyridinecarboxamide 1,2-dithiolane-3-pentanoate, is a unique cosmetic ingredient that has gained popularity in the beauty industry due to its antioxidant and skin conditioning properties. This compound is a derivative of Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) and Thioctic Acid (Alpha Lipoic Acid), both of which are well-known for their beneficial effects on the skin.
The use of Niacinamide Thioctate in cosmetic products can be traced back to the continuous research and development efforts in the field of dermatology and cosmetology. The compound is synthesized through a complex chemical process that involves the reaction of Niacinamide and Thioctic Acid under controlled conditions.
While Niacinamide Thioctate shares some similarities with other skin conditioning agents and antioxidants, it stands out due to its unique chemical structure. Unlike other ingredients that only contain either Niacinamide or Thioctic Acid, Niacinamide Thioctate combines the benefits of both, providing a dual-action effect on the skin.
This ingredient is typically used in a variety of skincare products, including moisturizers and serums. Its antioxidant properties help protect the skin from harmful free radicals, while its skin conditioning effect helps improve the texture and appearance of the skin. As such, Niacinamide Thioctate is a valuable addition to any skincare routine, contributing to healthier, more radiant skin.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Niacinamide Thioctate:
Antioxidant Properties
Niacinamide Thioctate is officially recognized as an antioxidant. In the context of cosmetics, this means that it can help protect your skin from damage caused by harmful free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage the cells in your skin, leading to premature aging and other skin issues. By neutralizing these free radicals, Niacinamide Thioctate can help maintain the health and vitality of your skin.
Skin Conditioning
Another official function of Niacinamide Thioctate is skin conditioning. This means that it helps to make the skin feel smoother, softer, and more supple. It achieves this by enhancing the skin’s barrier function, which helps to lock in moisture and keep out irritants. This can lead to an improvement in the overall texture and appearance of the skin, making it look healthier and more radiant.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Niacinamide Thioctate. There may be other benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond these functions. However, these additional benefits are not officially recognized and therefore, are not covered in this article.
Safety Profile
Niacinamide Thioctate, also known as 3-Pyridinecarboxamide 1,2-dithiolane-3-pentanoate, is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic products. However, like any other ingredient, it may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with sensitive skin.
While Niacinamide Thioctate is known for its antioxidant and skin conditioning properties, it may cause some potential side effects upon topical application. These may include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Skin irritation
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – there is currently a lack of data regarding the safety of topical usage of Niacinamide Thioctate during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
Adverse reactions to Niacinamide Thioctate are not common, but it is always recommended to perform a patch test before widespread usage to ensure there is no allergic 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 whose sources include 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.
