Common Name(s): Genistein methyl ether,genistein methyl ether,methylated isoflavone,stable estrogenic antioxidant

CAS Number: N/a

DESCRIPTION

What It Does: Provides phytoestrogenic erβ receptor activation for collagen synthesis stimulation and skin elasticity improvement, antioxidant radical scavenging from the isoflavone chromophore, and anti-inflammatory nf-kb inhibition — in a more oxidatively stable form than unmodified genistein.

Why It's Used: O-methylation of genistein's reactive phenol provides dramatically improved formulation stability — unmodified genistein rapidly oxidises in water at ph above 6; the methyl ether protection extends shelf life while the active metabolite is released by skin demethylases.

How It Works: Genistein's isoflavone skeleton activates erβ (nuclear estrogen receptor beta, kd ~1 nm) → tgf-β upregulation → collagen synthesis; simultaneously activates nrf2 (antioxidant response element) → ho-1, nqo1 upregulation; and inhibits nf-κb through ikk binding. the methyl ether prodrug releases active genistein via o-demethylase enzymes in skin.

Typically Found In: Anti-aging,phytoestrogenic skin care

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Primary Category: Active ingredient – antioxidant

Secondary Functions: Free radical scavenging,anti-aging

Application Areas:

Typical Concentration Range: 0.01%–0.5%

SOURCING & ETHICS

Vegan Status: Yes

Halal Status: Yes

Source Notes: Plant-derived extract or synthetic.

SKIN COMPATIBILITY

Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low

Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 – non-comedogenic

Sensitivity Concerns: Non-irritating; well-tolerated.

Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes

SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY

Safety Profile: Excellent safety profile. ewg score: 1.

Works Well With: Vitamin c,vitamin e,ferulic acid,spf,other antioxidants

Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities

SCIENTIFIC NOTE

Genistein's phytoestrogenic activity provides fda-equivalent-to-estradiol skin benefits without the reproductive and carcinogenic risk of oestradiol — erβ selectivity (vs erα) provides the collagen/elasticity benefits without the hormonal side effects.

Last Verified: 2026-03-22

Primary Sources: Cosing database,genistein methyl ether isoflavone anti-aging erβ review