What is Tangeritin?
Tangeritin, also known as 5,6,7,8-Tetramethoxy-2-(4-Methoxyphenyl)-4-Benzopyrone, is a naturally occurring compound found in the peels of citrus fruits, particularly tangerines. This compound belongs to a class of chemicals known as polymethoxyflavones, which are recognized for their potent antioxidant properties.
The use of Tangeritin in cosmetics can be traced back to its discovery in the early 20th century when scientists began to explore the potential benefits of natural compounds in skincare. Over the years, it has gained popularity due to its antioxidant and skin conditioning properties, making it a common ingredient in a variety of cosmetic products.
The production of Tangeritin for cosmetic use involves extracting the compound from tangerine peels through a process of distillation. This process ensures the purity of Tangeritin, allowing it to deliver its full benefits when applied to the skin.
While Tangeritin shares similarities with other citrus-derived ingredients, such as hesperidin and naringin, it stands out due to its unique chemical structure. This structure allows Tangeritin to be more easily absorbed by the skin, enhancing its effectiveness as a skin conditioner and antioxidant.
Tangeritin is typically used in a variety of skincare products, including moisturizers and serums. 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. As a result, products containing Tangeritin can help to improve the overall health and appearance of the skin.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Tangeritin:
Antioxidant Properties
Tangeritin, with its antioxidant properties, plays a crucial role in skincare products. Antioxidants are substances that help protect our skin from free radicals – harmful molecules that can cause damage to our skin cells. This damage can lead to premature aging, wrinkles, and dull skin. By neutralizing these free radicals, Tangeritin helps to maintain the health and vitality of our skin, keeping it looking youthful and radiant.
Skin Conditioning
Another official function of Tangeritin is skin conditioning. This means that it helps to make the skin feel smoother, softer, and more supple. It achieves this by enhancing the appearance and texture of the skin, reducing roughness, cracking, and irritation. Whether it’s in a lotion, cream, or serum, Tangeritin can help to improve your skin’s overall condition, leaving it feeling nourished and well-cared for.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Tangeritin. There may be other benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond these official functions. However, as consumers, it’s essential to be aware of the proven benefits and not be misled by unsupported claims.
Safety Profile
Tangeritin, also known as 5,6,7,8-Tetramethoxy-2-(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 all skin types and there is always a potential for allergic reactions.
Some potential side effects of topical application of Tangeritin 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 Tangeritin during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before using products containing this ingredient.
While adverse reactions to Tangeritin are not common, it is always recommended to conduct a patch test before using any new product. Apply a small amount of the product to a patch of skin on your inner forearm. Wait 24 hours to see if there is any reaction before applying the product to a larger area.
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.
