Calcium Beta-Hydroxy Beta-Methylbutyrate (HMB (Calcium Beta-Hydroxy Beta-Methylbutyrate)) - conditioning, skin protectant

INCI Name

Calcium Beta-Hydroxy...

Functions

2 Roles

Sustainability

6/10

What It Does

Calcium Beta-Hydroxy Beta-Methylbutyrate (HMB) is the calcium salt of beta-hydroxy beta-methylbutyric acid, a naturally occurring metabolite of the essential amino acid leucine produced in small amounts by the human body. In cosmetic formulations, it is primarily used as an active ingredient targeting skin firmness and elasticity, as it is believed to support collagen synthesis and help reduce the appearance of fine lines by stimulating fibroblast activity. Formulators choose it for its dual role as both a skin-conditioning active and a source of bioavailable calcium ions, which play a role in keratinocyte differentiation and skin barrier function.

Improves slip and manageability

Reduces static and frizz

Adds shine and smoothness

Protects from mechanical damage

Technical Properties

Ionic Charge

anionic

Molecular charge type

Viscosity Effect

neutral

Impact on formula thickness

Foaming Ability

none

Lather generation

Ingredient Compatibility

Known Interactions

IRONUse CautionAbsorption Competition

Calcium inhibits both heme and non-heme iron absorption by 50-60% when taken together. These minerals compete for the same absorption pathways. Separate by at least 2 hours or formulate for different serving times.

ZINCNoteAbsorption Competition

High-dose Calcium (>600mg) can reduce Zinc absorption by 30-50%. Consider separating doses or using chelated zinc (zinc bisglycinate) for better absorption.

MAGNESIUMNoteAbsorption Competition

Calcium and Magnesium compete for absorption at high doses. While they can be combined at moderate levels, high-dose formulations should separate them or use chelated forms.

CITRIC ACIDNotePrecipitation

High Calcium + Citric Acid can form calcium citrate precipitate in beverages, causing cloudiness or sedimentation. Manageable with proper formulation (sequestrants, pH control), but test stability.

Compatibility analysis powered by OpenMix — open-source formulation science

Sustainability Profile

Sustainability Score

6/10

Biodegradability

readily biodegradable

Source

synthetic

Feedstock

Synthesized from leucine metabolites or via chemical synthesis from alpha-ketoisocaproic acid; leucine itself is typically derived from fermentation or plant protein hydrolysis