Spotlight on Ingredient: Arginine
May 8, 2022
Arginine is a powerful, duo action, anti-aging amino acid. It helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and works inside the skin to keep it plump by restoring hydration from within.
Arginine is first an antioxidant. It works as an antioxidant by neutralizing free radical damage on the skin. Arginine has been shown to have antioxidant activity. Antioxidants work by neutralizing free radicals, the unstable molecules that contribute to the formation of premature wrinkles and fine lines on the skin. Free radicals damage important cellular components, such as the cell membrane, DNA, and cellular proteins like collagen. Damaged collagen is a major factor that contributes to the appearance of aged skin. Therefore, by using products containing arginine, the skin would benefit and be better protected from free radicals.
Another function of arginine in skincare products is to increase skin hydration by acting as a humectant.
A humectant acts by pulling water into the skin from the environment and trapping it in the skin. Studies also suggest that arginine may be involved in the synthesis of components of the skin’s Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF), such as ceramides, cholesterol, urea, and glycosaminoglycans. Together with the naturally-occurring lipids in the skin, NMF components work to keep the skin’s surface intact, supple, and hydrated.
One study evaluated the effects of topical 2.5% arginine hydrochloride ointment on transepidermal water loss or water loss from the surface layers of the skin. The results of this study indicated that topical arginine increased urea content and improved skin hydration. It is important to remember that one study doesn’t indicate a causational link but this is an interesting potential benefit of arginine.
At Vivre SkinLabs, we combine a powerful dose of Arginine with our proprietary SEXFuse Technology in both the Radiante Tissu skin prep pads and the Correct and Control Skin prep pads, making these pads a powerhouse multitasker.
