Humectant

Glutamine

Conditionally essential amino acid — the most common free amino acid in blood plasma and muscles. Fuel for keratinocytes and fibroblasts, precursor of glutamic acid and proline. In cosmetics, it moisturizes, supports barrier function, and collagen synthesis.

conditionally essential amino acidfuel for cellscomponent of NMFcollagen synthesis
✓ Safe
Comedogenic Rating
0/5
Irritation Potential
0/5

What is it?

L-Glutamine (INCI: Glutamine) — a dipeptide amino acid with an amino group on the side chain. Molecular weight ~146 Da. Well soluble in water. In the body: primary fuel for rapidly dividing cells (keratinocytes, fibroblasts, immune cells). Metabolism: Glutamine → Glutamate → α-ketoglutarate (Krebs cycle) → energy. Precursor: for proline (→ collagen), for glutathione (→ antioxidant protection). In the skin: component of NMF, present in collagen. Functions in cosmetics: moisturizer, cellular fuel, stimulation of regeneration.

Recovery products after procedures, moisturizing complexes with amino acids, anti-aging formulas, products for weakened and tired skin.

Key Benefits

Cellular fuel — support for keratinocytes and fibroblasts
Glutamine is the main source of energy for rapidly dividing cells — keratinocytes and fibroblasts. Under stress (UV, chemical peels, mechanical damage), cells require more glutamine for regeneration. Topical application: provides "fuel" directly to skin cells → accelerated recovery and renewal. Especially effective in post-procedure products.
Precursor of proline and collagen
Glutamine → (via glutamate) → proline — a key amino acid of collagen (~12% of all amino acids). Without sufficient proline, the synthesis of new collagen slows down. Topical application of glutamine in combination with peptides and vitamin C: provides substrate for the synthesis of new collagen by fibroblasts. Synergy with palmitoyl pentapeptide-4 and copper tripeptide-1.
Precursor of glutathione — antioxidant protection
Glutamine → cysteine + glycine + glutamate → Glutathione (GSH) — the most powerful intracellular antioxidant. With sufficient levels of glutamine, cells maintain optimal levels of GSH → protection from ROS, UV damage, and oxidative stress. Especially relevant for skin showing signs of oxidative aging.

Suitable for

weakened skinskin after proceduresmature skin

Main Actions

✓ cellular fuel for keratinocytes✓ precursor of proline and collagen✓ support for glutathione synthesis
Glutamine vs Glutamic Acid — not the same

Glutamine (glutamine): amino group on the side chain (-CONH₂), neutral, conditionally essential, primary fuel for cells. Glutamic Acid (glutamic acid): carboxyl group (-COOH), acidic, replaceable, component of NMF and glutathione. In cosmetics INCI: 'Glutamine' = L-Glutamine, 'Glutamic Acid' = L-Glutamic Acid. Both are present in NMF and amino acid complexes — different roles, but complement each other.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Glutamine do for skin?
Recovery products after procedures, moisturizing complexes with amino acids, anti-aging formulas, products for weakened and tired skin.
Who should use Glutamine?
Glutamine is suitable for: weakened skin, skin after procedures, mature skin.
Are there any warnings about Glutamine?
Glutamine (glutamine): amino group on the side chain (-CONH₂), neutral, conditionally essential, primary fuel for cells. Glutamic Acid (glutamic acid): carboxyl group (-COOH), acidic, replaceable, component of NMF and glutathione. In cosmetics INCI: 'Glutamine' = L-Glutamine, 'Gl

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