Fullerenes (Fullersomes)
Football-shaped carbon molecules used in a few high-tech formulas as antioxidants; 'fullersome' is a trade term.
fullerenes, fullersomes, buckminsterfullerene, C60, carbon 60
Ageing skin
What it does
Fullerenes are football-shaped molecules made of 60 carbon atoms, used in a small number of high-tech formulas as an antioxidant. 'Fullersome' is a trade term rather than an ingredient name: on labels the active appears as fullerenes.
How it works
A single fullerene molecule is about one nanometre across, much smaller than a liposome, but there is little evidence that it carries other ingredients deeper into the skin. Its interest for skincare lies in its structure: the carbon cage can mop up many free radicals, which is why fullerenes are described as antioxidants. Most of the research is laboratory-based, and they are used at very low levels.
MG says
Fullerenes are a niche ingredient rather than an essential one, and SkincareEdit doesn't currently stock a formula that contains them. For well-studied antioxidant protection, a vitamin C serum layered under SPF each morning does the heavy lifting, with vitamin E, ferulic acid or niacinamide alongside.
Cautions
Research on fullerenes in skincare is limited and mostly laboratory-based, and regulators continue to review the safety of nano-sized ingredients. If you prefer to avoid nanomaterials, check labels for fullerenes.
Regional notes
United Kingdom: In the UK and EU, ingredients used as nanomaterials must be followed by “(nano)” in the ingredient list.
