Glucosamine

Best

Antioxidant

Glucosamine at a glance

  • Multi-purpose antioxidant that plays a role in fading skin discolorations
  • Also known to offer skin-calming properties
  • A precursor of hyaluronic acid (meaning it helps skin make its own HA naturally)
  • Commercially derived from crustacean shells

Glucosamine description

Glucosamine is a skin-identical, hydration-restoring modified glucose (type of sugar) with one hydroxyl (OH) group substituted with an amine, making it an aminomonosaccharide. It offers a multitude of benefits for skin, including moisture retention and refining rough texture, which helps promote a more even skin tone. It has an excellent safety profile, as last assessed by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel in 2022. For cosmetics, derivatives of glucosamine tend to be used more often than the original form due to greater stability, bioavailability, and ease of formulation. Examples include plant-derived glucosamine HCI (the hydrochloride form) or acetyl glucosamine, which pairs well with niacinamide for further improvement in the appearance of dark spots and uneven tone. Use levels of glucosamine and derivatives in cosmetics ranges from 0.5–5%. Getting a bit more science-y, despite glucosamine’s smaller molecular size, it has poor transdermal absorption because of its polarity and hydrosolubility. As such, formulation techniques to improve delivery are essential for skin permeation of this amino acid sugar.

Glucosamine references

  • International Journal of Molecular Sciences, June 2023, pages 1–22
  • Cosmetic Ingredient Review, July 2022, pages 1-25
  • Antioxidants, August 2021, pages 1–24
  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, December 2006, pages 309–315

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.