An acetylated form of the amino acid cysteine, used as an antioxidant and skin-conditioning ingredient.
What it is
Acetyl cysteine is N-acetyl-L-cysteine, a derivative of the sulphur-containing amino acid cysteine in which the amino group carries an acetyl group. CosIng lists it as an antioxidant and skin-conditioning ingredient.
Where it is used
Found in a small number of products.
Limits of interpretation
The INCI list shows which ingredients are present, not how much of each. Above 1%, ingredients are listed in descending order of weight; below 1% the order is free.
The label does not show the concentration actually used.
Functions
- Antioxidant
- Inhibiting reactions promoted by oxygen, thus avoiding oxidation and rancidity.
- Skin conditioning
- Maintaining the skin in good condition.
EU regulation
This ingredient is not listed in the annexes of Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 in the CosIng data.