Common Name(s): L-alanine,2-aminopropanoic acid
CAS Number: 56-41-7
DESCRIPTION
What It Does: Provides nmf-type humectant moisture retention and skin conditioning.
Why It's Used: Simple, well-tolerated nmf amino acid humectant for skin conditioning formulations.
How It Works: Small methyl side chain contributes to protein hydrophobic core but as free amino acid provides direct humectant activity via amino and carboxyl groups. converted to pyruvate for cellular atp production via gluconeogenesis.
Typically Found In: Nmf moisturizers,skin conditioning products
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Primary Category: Active ingredient โ amino acid
Secondary Functions: Nmf component,cellular energy
Application Areas:
Facial Skincare
Body Care
Hair Care
Beard Care
Color Cosmetics (Makeup)
Dietary/Oral Supplements
Typical Concentration Range: 0.5%โ5%
SOURCING & ETHICS
Vegan Status: Yes โ plant-derived or synthetic
Halal Status: Yes
Source Notes: Fermentation-derived or synthetic. natural skin component.
SKIN COMPATIBILITY
Irritancy Rating: 1/5 โ very low
Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 โ non-comedogenic
Sensitivity Concerns: Non-irritating; endogenous skin molecule.
Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes
SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY
Safety Profile: Excellent safety profile. natural skin nmf component. ewg score: 1.
Works Well With: Hyaluronic acid,ceramides,peptides,other amino acids
Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities
SCIENTIFIC NOTE
Free alanine is among the most abundant amino acids in the stratum corneum nmf, where it contributes to the aqueous phase hydration that keeps the stratum corneum flexible and functional.
Last Verified: Cosing database,cir safety assessment
Primary Sources: 2026-03-12