Amino Acids
The building blocks of proteins and a key part of the skin's own moisturising factor; in skincare they hydrate and condition.
arginine, glycine, serine, proline, alanine, lysine, histidine, threonine, glutamic acid, collagen amino acids, oat amino acids
Dry & dehydrated skin · Barrier support · Ageing skin
What it does
Amino acids are the small molecules that link together to make peptides and proteins such as collagen, elastin and keratin. They are also the largest part of the skin's natural moisturising factor, the water-binding mix in its outer layer. In skincare they work mainly as hydrators and conditioners, helping skin feel smoother, softer and more supple. They often appear in groups, as in Valmont's Moisturising Booster, or within a signature complex such as Augustinus Bader's TFC8.
How it works
Amino acids in a cream don't turn into new collagen; your body builds that from the inside. What they do on the surface is attract and hold water, replacing what cleansing, age and dry air deplete. Some are chosen for particular jobs: arginine, for instance, also helps balance a formula's pH. They are the raw material for peptides, and they occur naturally on the skin, where sweat carries lactic and amino acids into the acid mantle.
MG says
Eighth Day's The Regenerative Serum builds on Peptide-Rich Plasma, a blend of amino acids with bio-engineered peptides and growth factors. It is a mainstay of my own routine, and we use it in many of our studio treatments to calm, hydrate and fortify the complexion and leave it looking renewed.
Cautions
Amino acids are among the best-tolerated skincare ingredients and suit most skin types, including sensitive skin. As with any new product, patch test first if your skin is reactive.
