In the previous article, we discussed the mechanism of action of ergothioneine as a supplement and its alternative options.
In fact, as an important ingredient in skincare products, ergothioneine also offers significant benefits for our skin. Today, we will provide an overview of the benefits of ergothioneine for our skin.
Ergothioneine (EGT) is a naturally occurring sulfur-containing amino acid derivative found in mushrooms, grains, and certain animal tissues. Its unique chemical structure and biological functions make it highly beneficial for skin care.
Antioxidant effects – Anti-inflammatory effects – Photoprotective effects – Promotion of collagen synthesis – Moisturizing and barrier repair – Comprehensive anti-aging effects
Ergothioneine provides comprehensive anti-aging, moisturizing, and repair benefits for the skin through its unique antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, photoprotective, and collagen-promoting mechanisms.
When it comes to selecting skincare products, the criteria are generally more lenient than for supplements.
When selecting skincare products with ergothioneine as the main ingredient, adhere to three standards: purity, source, and concentration.
In terms of purity, a concentration exceeding 99% is sufficient for cosmetics. This is because our epidermis has direct transport proteins, resulting in high absorption rates.
The OCTN-1 transport protein is located in the basal layer of the epidermis.
Regarding source, it is the same as for supplements: mushroom-derived is preferable to chemically synthesized. Here’s a little insider tip: in experiments, researchers actually feed cells and mice mushroom extracts.
Regarding concentration, the minimum effective concentration is 0.05%–0.1%, but for high-performance needs such as anti-photoaging and post-aesthetic surgery care, an ideal concentration of 0.2%–1% is required.
This is because anti-aging and photoaging occur in the dermis. On one hand, the skin thickness in the dermis is deeper than the epidermis and superficial dermis where the effective concentration is achieved; on the other hand, the dermis has lower levels of its own transport proteins compared to the epidermis, so higher concentrations are required.
For cosmetics using ergothioneine as an auxiliary ingredient, the following synergistic formulations are recommended based on different needs (provided that ergothioneine is listed before thickeners in the ingredient list):
1、Anti-aging combination: Ergothioneine + NAD+ (niacinamide-related components, enhancing cellular energy) + Boswellia (stimulating collagen).
These three ingredients form a regenerative fortress around collagen regeneration, providing protection, energy, and reconstruction.
Ergothioneine neutralizes free radicals, reducing oxidative stress’s inhibitory effect on collagen synthesis. NAD+ provides energy for collagen synthesis, while boswellic acid stimulates collagen regeneration more efficiently in a low-oxidative stress environment.
2、Brightening combination: Ergothioneine + Tranexamic Acid (inhibits melanin) + Glycyrrhizin (licorice extract, anti-inflammatory and melanin-inhibiting).
These three ingredients work together in four stages of the melanin formation pathway.
Ergothioneine reduces oxidative stress, lowering the overall drive for melanin formation. Tranexamic acid inhibits inflammation from reaching melanin-forming cells, while Glycyrrhizin further inhibits tyrosinase activity, reducing melanin precursors.
Except for the final melanin transport stage, they can act on three fronts, effectively blocking melanin formation.
3、Repair or post-aesthetic medical care maintenance: Ergothioneine + Ectoin (amino acid derivative, cell protection) + Centella Asiatica Extract (anti-scarring).
For daily repair of sensitive skin, ergothioneine + ectoin enhance epidermal defense, reducing external stimuli; while Centella Asiatica Extract alleviates redness and flaking, repairing the skin barrier.
Whether as a dietary supplement or skincare ingredient, ergothioneine is an excellent choice. If you require ergothioneine-related products, please contact us. Tianming Pharmaceutical will provide you with the most suitable supplement solution to safeguard your health!
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