What is Thiomorpholinone?
Thiomorpholinone, also known as Thiomorpholin-3-one, is a chemical compound that is used in the cosmetic industry for its antioxidant and skin conditioning properties. This ingredient is derived from Thiomorpholine, a heterocyclic organic compound, which undergoes oxidation to form Thiomorpholinone. The chemical structure of Thiomorpholinone includes a morpholine ring, which is a six-membered ring containing four carbon atoms, one nitrogen atom, and one sulfur atom.
The use of Thiomorpholinone in cosmetics is relatively recent, with the ingredient gaining popularity due to its antioxidant properties. Antioxidants are crucial in skincare products as they help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, unstable molecules that can damage the structural integrity of the skin. Thiomorpholinone’s skin conditioning properties also make it a valuable addition to cosmetic formulations, helping to keep the skin hydrated and healthy.
The production of Thiomorpholinone involves the oxidation of Thiomorpholine. This process involves the use of an oxidizing agent, which reacts with Thiomorpholine to form Thiomorpholinone. The exact process can vary depending on the specific requirements of the cosmetic formulation.
Thiomorpholinone is often compared to other antioxidant and skin conditioning ingredients used in cosmetics, such as Vitamin E and Hyaluronic Acid. However, unlike these ingredients, Thiomorpholinone is not naturally occurring and must be synthesized in a laboratory. This does not necessarily make it less effective, but it is a point of difference that is worth noting.
Thiomorpholinone is typically used in a variety of cosmetic products, including moisturizers and serums. Its antioxidant properties make it particularly beneficial in anti-aging products, where it can help to protect the skin from damage and promote a more youthful appearance. Its skin conditioning properties also make it a valuable addition to products designed to hydrate and nourish the skin.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Thiomorpholinone:
Antioxidant Properties
Thiomorpholinone is officially recognized as an antioxidant in cosmetic products. In layman’s terms, this means it helps to protect your skin from damage caused by harmful molecules known as free radicals. These free radicals are often a result of environmental factors such as pollution, UV rays, and even stress. By neutralizing these free radicals, Thiomorpholinone helps to maintain the health and vitality of your skin, preventing premature aging and promoting a more youthful appearance.
Skin Conditioning
Another official function of Thiomorpholinone is its role as a skin conditioner. This means it helps to keep your skin soft, smooth, and hydrated. It achieves this by enhancing the water-holding and absorbing capacity of the skin, thereby preventing dryness and flakiness. Regular use of products containing Thiomorpholinone can result in a more supple, well-nourished complexion.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Thiomorpholinone. There may be other benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond the scope of these official functions. However, as consumers, it’s crucial to base our understanding and expectations on verified information to avoid being misled by brands and manufacturers.
Safety Profile
Thiomorpholinone, also known as Thiomorpholin-3-one, is not a banned or regulated ingredient in the cosmetics industry. However, like any other ingredient, its safety and suitability largely depend on its concentration and the way it is used in a product.
As an antioxidant and skin conditioning agent, Thiomorpholinone is generally considered safe for topical application. However, it’s always recommended to do a patch test before using any new product, as individual skin reactions can vary.
While Thiomorpholinone is not known to be a common allergen, some 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 usage of Thiomorpholinone during pregnancy or breastfeeding. As such, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
Adverse reactions to Thiomorpholinone are not common, but as with any cosmetic ingredient, they can occur. It’s always best to patch test a new product before widespread usage to ensure there’s 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.
