Humectant

Tyrosine

Amino acid at the crossroads — tyrosine is a substrate for tyrosinase, the enzyme for melanin synthesis. It is part of the skin's NMF, but in the context of cosmetics, it is most interesting as a key link in the mechanism of hyperpigmentation and the action of brightening agents.

NMFTyrosinaseMelaninPigmentation

✓ Safe

Comedogenic Rating

0/5

Irritation Potential

0/5

What is it?

Tyrosine (тирозин, Tyr) — conditionally essential aromatic amino acid. In INCI: Tyrosine. It is a direct substrate for tyrosinase (the key enzyme of melanogenesis) — converted to DOPA → dopaquinone → melanin. It is part of the skin's NMF. It is also a precursor of thyroid hormones and catecholamines.

NMF-moisturizer in complex amino acid formulas. In the context of pigmentation — understanding the role of tyrosine explains why tyrosinase inhibitors (vitamin C, arbutin, kojic acid) are effective in hyperpigmentation: they block this very step.

Key Benefits

✦

Moisturization through NMF pool

Tyrosine is part of the natural amino acid pool of the skin's NMF and retains moisture. As a component of Amino Acid Complex — it complements the moisturizing profile of formulas.

◈

Central role in melanogenesis

Tyrosine → DOPA (action of tyrosinase) → dopaquinone → eumelanin/pheomelanin. This is the first and key regulated step of pigmentation — that is why tyrosinase inhibitors are the most effective approach to depigmentation.

✧

Building block of structural proteins

Tyrosine is part of collagen, elastin, and keratin. The phenolic hydroxyl group participates in cross-linking dismutin-peroxidase reactions — stabilizes the extracellular matrix.

Suitable for

For all skin typesFor dehydrated skin

Main Actions

✓ NMF-moisturization✓ Substrate for tyrosinase✓ Building block of proteins

Tyrosine in tanning products

Some products position tyrosine as a "tanning accelerator." Scientific data on the topical application of tyrosine to enhance tanning is limited and controversial. Do not confuse with tyramine or fake tan components.

CategoryHumectants

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