Acetyl Glutamine

Good

Humectant

Acetyl Glutamine at a glance

  • Derivative of glutamine, the most abundant amino acid in the body
  • Classified as a skin-conditioning agent with research backing its ability to enhance moisture retention
  • Proven to improve skin’s barrier
  • May help extends skin’s healthspan as it supports related pathways (more research is needed)

Acetyl Glutamine description

Acetyl glutamine is classified as a skin-conditioning agent with research backing its ability to enhance skin’s moisture retention levels and barrier health. There’s also a study indicating that acetyl glutamine has further potential to extends skin’s healthspan as it supports key pathways to maintaining a youthful appearance. While it looks promising, we’d like to see more research to validate these findings. Chemically speaking, acetyl glutamine is the amide formed from the reaction of acetic acid chloride and glutamine. Glutamine is the most abundant amino acid in the body (as a skin care ingredient, this can be produced synthetically). Acetyl glutamine is typically supplied as part of a blend that contains other anti-aging ingredients. Manufacturers recommend using it in concentrations between 1–3%. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel deemed acetyl glutamine safe in their 2017 report where they surveyed 8 products containing in up to 1% concentration.

Acetyl Glutamine references

  • Personal Care Products Council InfoBase, Accessed December 2022, ePublication
  • Asian Journal of Beauty Cosmetology, 2018, pages 579-589
  • International Journal of Toxicology, 2017, pages 17S-56S

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.