L-argenine ●
TL;DR. This ingredient primarily functions as a pH adjuster and neutralizing agent, especially in formulas using acidic actives or gelling polymers. It can also support skin and hair conditioning because it is a naturally occurring amino acid.
What does L-argenine do in a cosmetic formula?
This ingredient primarily functions as a pH adjuster and neutralizing agent, especially in formulas using acidic actives or gelling polymers. It can also support skin and hair conditioning because it is a naturally occurring amino acid.
Is L-argenine clean?
From a clean-beauty perspective, this ingredient is generally well tolerated, low on allergen concerns, and not a common restricted-list issue. At higher levels, its alkalinity can influence skin feel or formula irritation potential by shifting pH upward.
Is L-argenine sustainable?
This material is commonly produced by fermentation from plant-derived sugars, although petrochemical routes can also exist depending on supplier. It is readily biodegradable and is not associated with persistence or bioaccumulation concerns.
Is L-argenine COSMOS-approved?
It is generally compatible with COSMOS-natural and COSMOS-organic standards when made by accepted natural fermentation or approved processing routes. It fits Green Chemistry expectations well because it can come from renewable feedstocks, is biodegradable, and performs at low use levels.
How does L-argenine work chemically?
The molecule is a basic, zwitterionic amino acid with a strongly alkaline guanidinium side chain, so it can raise formula pH and form salts with acidic ingredients. Typical use levels are often around 0.1% to 2%, with higher amounts used mainly when neutralization or amino-acid positioning is central to the formula.
Last updated 2026-05-14