INCI Name
Arginine
Functions
4 Roles
Sustainability
8/10
Category
ph adjusters
What It Does
Arginine is a semi-essential amino acid that serves as a highly effective pH adjuster in cosmetic formulations, capable of neutralizing acidic ingredients while simultaneously providing skin conditioning benefits. Unlike simple alkaline pH adjusters, arginine enhances skin hydration through its humectant properties and supports the skin's natural moisture barrier. Formulators favor arginine because it offers a gentler alternative to traditional bases like sodium hydroxide, while also contributing to improved skin feel and potential anti-aging benefits through its role in collagen synthesis.
Technical Properties
pH Range
10.5-12.0
Optimal working range
Ionic Charge
cationic
Molecular charge type
Viscosity Effect
neutral
Impact on formula thickness
Molecular Profile
Molecular Weight
174.20
g/mol
LogP
-4.20
Partition coefficient (lipophilicity)
H-Bond Donors
4
Hydrogen bond donor count
H-Bond Acceptors
4
Hydrogen bond acceptor count
Polar Surface Area
128.0
Angstroms squared
Ingredient Compatibility
Known Interactions
DHA undergoes Maillard browning with free amino acids on skin to produce melanoidins (the tan). Free amino acids IN THE FORMULA (aloe vera juice, hydrolyzed proteins, peptide complexes, amino acid blends) react with DHA pre-application, degrading the active and accelerating off-smell development over shelf life. Remove the amino-acid source, switch to glycerin/propanediol/sodium PCA for hydration, or use encapsulated DHA if the amino-acid ingredient is brand-critical.
Sustainability Profile
Sustainability Score
Biodegradability
readily biodegradable
Source
fermentation
Feedstock
plant-based sugars or synthetic production
Related Ingredients
Similar ph adjusters to explore
Quick Reference
- Full INCI Name
- Arginine
- Common Name
- L-Arginine
- CAS Number
- 74-79-3
- Category
- ph adjusters