Creatine – Skin-Conditioning and Anti-Ageing Cosmetic Ingredient

What Is Creatine?

Creatine is a naturally occurring nitrogen-containing organic acid produced in the human body from amino acids, primarily in the kidneys and liver. It is transported through the blood and is predominantly stored in skeletal muscle.

Creatine is also naturally present in human skin, where creatine kinase (CK) systems and creatine transporters are involved in cellular energy metabolism.

Creatine in Skin Care

Research by scientists at Beiersdorf Research and Development investigated creatine as a potential topical cosmetic ingredient for ageing skin. The research focused on the relationship between cellular energy metabolism, mitochondrial function and oxidative stress.

Studies reported that externally applied creatine was taken up by keratinocytes and increased creatine kinase activity and mitochondrial function in human epidermal cells. The research also indicated protection against oxidative and UV-induced stress under the conditions studied.

These findings support the use of creatine as a cosmetic active ingredient in formulations targeting the appearance of premature skin ageing and skin damage.

Cosmetic Applications

Creatine can therefore be considered for anti-ageing and skin-conditioning formulations, particularly products designed to support the skin's natural energy metabolism and help protect cells from environmental stress.

The reported research findings should be distinguished from therapeutic claims and considered in the context of the specific formulation, concentration and supporting evidence.

Ingredient Information

INCI Name: Creatine
Chemical Name: Glycine, N-(Aminoiminomethyl)-N-Methyl-

References

Dweck, Anthony. Handbook of Cosmetic Ingredients: - their use, safety and toxicology (Dweck Books 5).