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Comprehensive Cosmetic Industry Ingredient Guide

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Ingredient
3Imidazol4ylacrylicacidUrocanicacidanditsethylester

3-Imidazol-4-ylacrylic acid (Urocanic acid) and its ethyl ester

Summary

3-Imidazol-4-ylacrylic acid, also known as Urocanic acid, and its ethyl ester are cosmetic ingredients commonly used in skincare products. Urocanic acid is a natural component of the skin's outermost layer and has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Its ethyl ester form is often used as a skin conditioning agent and emollient. These ingredients are generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and have been extensively studied for their efficacy and safety.

INCI Name and Common References

3-Imidazol-4-ylacrylic acid (Urocanic acid) and its ethyl ester Common terms/nicknames: None

Function

Urocanic acid and its ethyl ester are used in cosmetic formulations as a skin conditioning agent and a UV absorber. They help to improve the texture and appearance of the skin, while also protecting it from the harmful effects of UV radiation. Additionally, urocanic acid has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful in formulations designed to soothe and calm irritated skin.

Science

Urocanic acid and its ethyl ester are both molecules that contain an imidazole ring and a carboxylic acid group. The imidazole ring has a nitrogen atom that can act as a hydrogen bond acceptor, while the carboxylic acid group can act as a hydrogen bond donor. These properties allow urocanic acid and its ethyl ester to interact with other molecules through hydrogen bonding. In the context of skincare, urocanic acid is known to play a role in regulating the immune response of the skin. It is produced by keratinocytes in response to UV radiation and can act as a suppressor of the immune system, helping to prevent excessive inflammation and damage to the skin. Urocanic acid and its ethyl ester may also have antioxidant properties, which can help to protect the skin from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals. Overall, the physical properties of urocanic acid and its ethyl ester allow them to interact with other molecules in the skin and play a role in regulating the immune response and protecting against oxidative stress.

Benefits

1. Urocanic acid and its ethyl ester have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in reducing redness and irritation in the skin. 2. These ingredients have also been found to have antioxidant properties, which can help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. 3. Urocanic acid and its ethyl ester have been shown to improve the skin's barrier function, helping to keep moisture in and irritants out. 4. These ingredients may also have a brightening effect on the skin, helping to even out skin tone and reduce the appearance of dark spots. 5. Urocanic acid and its ethyl ester have been found to have antimicrobial properties, which can help to prevent acne and other skin infections.

Negatives

3-Imidazol-4-ylacrylic acid (Urocanic acid) and its ethyl ester are commonly used in the cosmetic industry as a skin conditioning agent and UV absorber. While these ingredients are generally considered safe for use, there are some potential side effects, sensitivities, and interactions that should be taken into consideration. One potential side effect of urocanic acid and its ethyl ester is skin irritation. This can occur in individuals with sensitive skin or those who are allergic to the ingredient. Symptoms of skin irritation may include redness, itching, and swelling. Another potential sensitivity to these ingredients is photosensitivity. Urocanic acid and its ethyl ester are known to absorb UV radiation, which can cause a reaction in some individuals. This can result in a rash or other skin irritation when exposed to sunlight. There are also potential interactions with other ingredients that should be considered. For example, urocanic acid and its ethyl ester may interact with other UV absorbers or sunscreen ingredients, which can affect their efficacy. Additionally, these ingredients may interact with other skin conditioning agents or preservatives, which can impact their stability or effectiveness. Overall, while urocanic acid and its ethyl ester are generally considered safe for use in cosmetics, it is important to be aware of potential side effects, sensitivities, and interactions. Individuals with sensitive skin or those who are prone to allergic reactions should exercise caution when using products containing these ingredients, and it is always a good idea to consult with a dermatologist or other healthcare professional before using any new skincare products.

Source

Urocanic acid is a naturally occurring amino acid derivative that is found in the skin of humans and other animals. It is derived from histidine, an essential amino acid that is found in many foods. The ethyl ester of urocanic acid is a synthetic compound that is derived from urocanic acid. It is commonly used in the cosmetic industry as a UV absorber and skin conditioning agent. The processing pathway for urocanic acid involves the conversion of histidine to urocanic acid through a series of enzymatic reactions. The ethyl ester of urocanic acid is synthesized by reacting urocanic acid with ethanol in the presence of a catalyst. Both urocanic acid and its ethyl ester are then purified and used in various applications.

Safety

According to the Environmental Working Group's Skin Deep database, 3-Imidazol-4-ylacrylic acid (Urocanic acid) and its ethyl ester have not been rated for safety. However, other sources suggest that these compounds may have potential health hazards. For example, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has classified Urocanic acid as a skin sensitizer, meaning it can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Additionally, the National Library of Medicine's Hazardous Substances Data Bank notes that Urocanic acid may be harmful if ingested or inhaled, and can cause skin and eye irritation. Overall, while more research is needed to fully understand the safety of these compounds, it is important to handle them with caution and follow appropriate safety protocols.

Sustainability

3-Imidazol-4-ylacrylic acid (Urocanic acid) and its ethyl ester are chemical compounds that are primarily used in the cosmetic industry as a UV-absorbing agent. While these ingredients are not known to have any significant environmental impact, their production and sourcing practices can have ethical implications. The production of 3-Imidazol-4-ylacrylic acid (Urocanic acid) and its ethyl ester involves the use of various chemicals and solvents, which can have negative environmental impacts if not properly managed. However, there is limited information available on the specific production processes used for these compounds. In terms of ethical sourcing practices, it is important to consider the potential use of animal testing in the development and testing of cosmetic products that contain these ingredients. While there is no evidence to suggest that 3-Imidazol-4-ylacrylic acid (Urocanic acid) and its ethyl ester are tested on animals, it is possible that they may be used in products that have been tested on animals. Additionally, it is important to consider the potential impact of these ingredients on human health. While there is no evidence to suggest that 3-Imidazol-4-ylacrylic acid (Urocanic acid) and its ethyl ester are harmful to human health, it is important to ensure that they are used in safe concentrations and in products that have been thoroughly tested for safety. Overall, while 3-Imidazol-4-ylacrylic acid (Urocanic acid) and its ethyl ester are not known to have significant environmental impacts, it is important to consider their ethical sourcing practices and potential impact on human health. As with all cosmetic ingredients, it is important to use these compounds in a responsible and sustainable manner.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Urocanic acid and its ethyl ester have important functions in the human body, including regulating the immune system and protecting against UV radiation. While there are some potential negative effects associated with high levels of Urocanic acid, it is generally considered safe for consumption. Sources of Urocanic acid include animal products and some plants, while its ethyl ester can be found in some cosmetic products. Sustainability of Urocanic acid production is not well studied, but it is important to consider the environmental impact of any ingredient used in large quantities. Overall, Urocanic acid and its ethyl ester have potential health benefits and are safe for consumption in moderation.

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