N-Acetyl Glucosamine (NAG)
A natural amino sugar that supports skin hydration, promotes even skin tone, and enhances barrier function for a healthier, smoother complexion.
N-Acetyl Glucosamine (NAG) is an amino sugar derived from chitin, commonly used in skincare for its hydrating, brightening, and skin barrier-supporting properties. NAG is a precursor to hyaluronic acid, and it supports healthy skin hydration by helping the skin retain moisture more effectively.
It also helps to promote an even skin tone by inhibiting the synthesis of melanin, making it a valuable ingredient in formulations targeting hyperpigmentation and dark spots. NAG is gentle and well-tolerated, making it suitable for sensitive skin types.
Due to its mild nature, NAG can be used in a wide range of products, including serums, moisturizers, masks, and cleansers.
FEATURES
- Skin hydration – helps improve skin moisture retention for a plump and hydrated appearance.
- Even skin tone – helps to reduce hyperpigmentation and dark spots by inhibiting melanin synthesis.
- Supports skin barrier – promotes skin barrier function, improving overall skin health and resilience.
- Gentle and safe – suitable for sensitive skin and often used in calming and soothing formulations.
BEST FOR
- Brightening serums
- Anti-aging creams
- Hyperpigmentation treatments
- Hydrating masks
- Moisturizers
- Skin barrier repair products
FORMULATION GUIDELINES
| INCI | N-Acetyl Glucosamine |
|---|---|
| Type | Amino sugar, humectant, skin-conditioning agent |
| Solubility | Water soluble |
| Use Rate | 1.0–5.0% typical. 2.0–4.0% is often used for brightening effects and moisture retention. |
| Best Phase | Water phase (dissolve fully before emulsifying or mixing) |
| pH Compatibility | Works best in pH range 4.5–6.0 for optimal stability and skin compatibility. |
| Temperature Tolerance | Stable under normal processing conditions. Add below 40°C to preserve activity. |
| Pro Tip | N-Acetyl Glucosamine can be combined with other brightening agents like alpha-arbutin or niacinamide for enhanced results. When formulating with other actives, consider the pH to ensure stability and efficacy. Ensure that NAG is completely dissolved before mixing into your base to avoid any graininess in the final product. |
| Appearance | White to off-white powder |
| Stability Notes | Stable in a wide range of formulations, but pH should be monitored to ensure optimal efficacy. Avoid exposure to high temperatures. |
| Storage | Store in a cool, dry place, away from light and moisture to preserve stability. |
Related Products
Powerful antioxidant that helps protect formulas and support brighter-looking, more even tone skin. Commonly used to boost vitamin C systems and improve oxidative stability.
Lightweight, fast-absorbing carrier oil with a dry feel. Great for face oils, body oils, cleansing oils, and emulsions where you want slip without heaviness.
A stable vitamin C derivative that supports brighter-looking skin, helps fade the look of dark spots, and provides antioxidant support with better formulation stability than pure ascorbic acid.
Classic humectant that pulls water into the skin and improves softness. Essential for hydrating serums, lotions, cleansers, and almost every water-based formula.
A liquid sugar alcohol used as a humectant, moisturizer, and thickener in personal care products, providing hydration and improving texture.
A natural compound derived from raspberries, known for its antioxidant properties, promoting skin brightening, and helping improve the appearance of cellulite.
Out of stock
Pearlising and opacifying agent that gives shampoos and body washes that creamy, glossy “pearl” look. Also supports a richer texture and premium appearance.
A naturally derived ingredient used to adjust the pH of cosmetic formulations, enhance stability, and improve the effectiveness of preservatives.
A naturally derived humectant and skin-conditioning agent that helps improve the skin’s moisture retention, enhance formulation stability, and boost skin hydration.
Juicy berry-forward fragrance with a smooth vanilla-musk finish. Great for soaps, lotions, body oils, and home scenting when used within IFRA limits.
Stable ester form of kojic acid that provides the same brightening benefits with improved stability, especially in anhydrous or oil-based formulations.
A mild, sulfate-free surfactant that provides gentle cleansing while maintaining skin hydration and enhancing the sensory profile of personal care formulations.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.