What is Thiolactic Acid?
Thiolactic Acid, also known as 2-Mercaptopropionic acid, is a type of organic compound that is commonly used in the cosmetic industry. It is a colorless liquid that has a strong, unpleasant odor. This compound is part of the carboxylic acid family and is characterized by its sulfhydryl and carboxyl groups. It is derived from lactic acid, which is a natural substance that is found in various fruits and milk.
The use of Thiolactic Acid in cosmetics dates back to the early 20th century. It was initially used in hair care products due to its ability to break down the disulfide bonds in hair, allowing it to be reshaped. Over time, its use has expanded to include a variety of other cosmetic products.
Thiolactic Acid is synthesized through the reaction of lactic acid with hydrogen sulfide. This process results in the formation of Thiolactic Acid and water. The resulting compound is then purified and prepared for use in cosmetic products.
Thiolactic Acid is often compared to other ingredients that serve similar functions, such as thioglycolic acid. Both of these compounds are used as depilatories and for hair waving or straightening. However, Thiolactic Acid is generally considered to be less irritating and more gentle on the skin, making it a preferred choice for many cosmetic products.
Thiolactic Acid is typically used in a variety of cosmetic products, including hair care products, skin care products, and fragrances. In hair care products, it is used for its ability to break down the disulfide bonds in hair, allowing it to be reshaped. In skin care products, it is used for its antioxidant properties, which can help to protect the skin from damage. In fragrances, it is used for its strong, distinctive odor.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Thiolactic Acid:
Antioxidant
Thiolactic Acid, also known as 2-Mercaptopropionic acid, serves as an antioxidant in cosmetic products. This means it helps to protect your skin from the damaging effects of free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause harm to your skin cells. By neutralizing these free radicals, Thiolactic Acid can help to maintain the health and vitality of your skin, keeping it looking younger for longer.
Depilatory
Another key function of Thiolactic Acid is its use as a depilatory agent. In simpler terms, it aids in the removal of unwanted hair. When used in hair removal products, Thiolactic Acid works by breaking down the protein structure of the hair, making it easier to remove. This can result in smoother, hair-free skin.
Fragrance
Thiolactic Acid is also used as a fragrance ingredient in cosmetics. It can help to enhance the overall scent of a product, making your skincare routine a more enjoyable experience. However, it’s important to note that the scent of a product doesn’t necessarily reflect its effectiveness, and Thiolactic Acid’s primary benefits go beyond just providing a pleasant smell.
Hair Waving Or Straightening
One of the more unique functions of Thiolactic Acid is its use in hair waving or straightening products. It works by breaking the disulfide bonds in the hair’s keratin structure, allowing it to be reshaped into a straighter or wavier form. Once the hair is set in its new shape, the bonds re-form, helping to maintain the new style.
Reducing
Thiolactic Acid also serves as a reducing agent in cosmetics. This means it helps to remove oxygen from other substances, which can be beneficial in a variety of skincare applications. For example, it can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines by promoting a more even skin tone and texture.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Thiolactic Acid. There may be other benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond the scope of these official functions.
Safety Profile
Thiolactic Acid, also known as 2-Mercaptopropionic acid, is not a banned or heavily regulated ingredient in cosmetics. However, it is important to note that its concentration levels in products should be carefully monitored to ensure safety and efficacy.
As an antioxidant, depilatory, fragrance, hair waving or straightening, and reducing agent, Thiolactic Acid is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics. However, like any cosmetic ingredient, it has the potential to cause allergic reactions in some individuals. It is always recommended to conduct a patch test before using any new product containing this ingredient.
Potential side effects of topical application of Thiolactic Acid may include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Burning sensation
- Skin irritation
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – While there is no specific data suggesting that Thiolactic Acid is harmful during pregnancy or breastfeeding, there is also a lack of extensive research on this topic. Therefore, it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using any new cosmetic product during these periods.
Adverse reactions to Thiolactic Acid are not common, but they can occur. As mentioned earlier, it is always advisable to conduct a patch test before using any new product containing this ingredient to ensure that you do not have an 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.
