actives

Chromium Picolinate

Cromo Picolinato

conditioning

INCI Name

Chromium Picolinate

Functions

1 Roles

Sustainability

4/10

Category

actives

What It Does

Chromium Picolinate is a coordination complex of trivalent chromium (Cr³⁺) bound to three molecules of picolinic acid, a naturally occurring metabolite of tryptophan. In cosmetic and topical formulations, it is primarily explored for its potential role in supporting skin metabolism and glucose utilization at the cellular level, leveraging chromium's known involvement in insulin signaling pathways. Formulators occasionally incorporate it into targeted body-contouring or slimming cosmetic products, though its topical bioavailability and efficacy remain subjects of ongoing scientific discussion.

Improves slip and manageability
Reduces static and frizz
Adds shine and smoothness
Protects from mechanical damage

Technical Properties

Ionic Charge

nonionic

Molecular charge type

Viscosity Effect

neutral

Impact on formula thickness

Foaming Ability

none

Lather generation

Ingredient Compatibility

Works Well With

water-based formulationshumectantsnonionic surfactantsvitamins and water-soluble actives

Avoid Combining

strong oxidizing agentsstrong reducing agentshigh pH alkaline systems
Compatibility analysis powered by OpenMix — open-source formulation science

Sustainability Profile

Sustainability Score

4/10

Biodegradability

inherently biodegradable

Source

synthetic

Feedstock

Chromium(III) salts combined with picolinic acid (a niacin metabolite), produced via chemical synthesis

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