Humectant

Lysine

Essential amino acid - essential for the synthesis of collagen and hydroxylysine. Participates in the cross-linking of collagen fibers, determining the strength and elasticity of the skin. In cosmetics, it moisturizes as an NMF component and supports the synthesis of connective tissue.

essential amino acidcollagen synthesiscollagen cross-linkingNMF component

✓ Safe

Comedogenic Rating

0/5

Irritation Potential

0/5

What is it?

L-Lysine (INCI: Lysine) - an essential polar amino acid with an ε-amino group. Obtained from food (meat, fish, eggs, legumes, quinoa). Molecular weight ~146 Da. Well soluble in water. In the body: hydroxylated by the enzyme lysyl hydroxylase (requires vitamin C as a cofactor) → hydroxylysine is formed. Hydroxylysine is key in the "cross-linking" of collagen fibers through pyridinoline bonds → strength of the dermis. In the skin: part of NMF, ~4% of the amino acids in collagen. Functions in cosmetics: moisturizer + stimulation of collagen synthesis and cross-linking.

Anti-aging products supporting collagen synthesis, moisturizing complexes with NMF amino acids, products for improving skin elasticity, comprehensive care for mature skin.

Key Benefits

✦

Support for collagen synthesis and cross-linking

Lysine - a necessary precursor of hydroxylysine: without it, the formation of pyridinoline "cross-links" between collagen fibers is impossible. These cross-links determine the mechanical strength of the dermis. In the absence of lysine or vitamin C (cofactor of lysyl hydroxylase): collagen is synthesized but "unstable" - as in scurvy. Topical application: provides a building block for the synthesis of new collagen fibers in fibroblasts.

◈

Moisturizing and support of NMF

Lysine - a hygroscopic charged amino acid (cationic at physiological pH) in the composition of NMF. Two amino groups increase hygroscopicity: effectively attracts water molecules. In combination with other NMF components (serine, sodium PCA, hyaluronic acid): recreates the natural moisturizing factor of the skin, reduces TEWL, and improves hydration.

✧

Antioxidant potential and protection against glycation

The ε-amino group of lysine - reactive: can "trap" reactive carbonyl compounds (glycation products AGE) through the Maillard reaction. This protects collagen from glycation damage, which is one of the mechanisms of dermal aging (yellowish tint, stiffness, loss of elasticity). The role of lysine in anti-glycation: building block + "trap" for AGE precursors.

Suitable for

mature skinflaccid skindehydrated skin

Main Actions

✓ support for collagen synthesis and cross-linking✓ hygroscopic moisturizing✓ protection of collagen from glycation

Lysine and vitamin C - an inseparable pair

Lysyl hydroxylase (the enzyme converting lysine → hydroxylysine) requires ascorbic acid (vitamin C) as a cofactor. This explains why vitamin C deficiency → scurvy (collagen breakdown): even if lysine is present, it cannot be hydroxylated without vitamin C. In formulas: synergy of lysine + vitamin C + palmitoyl peptides - a powerful collagen-stimulating complex. INCI: "Lysine" or "L-Lysine HCl" (hydrochloride - a more stable form).

CategoryHumectants

Check if this ingredient works for your skin — analyze your full product formula for free.

Analyze your product