active

Arginine(1)

INCI: ARGININE
CAS 74-79-3
Nitric oxide precursor; improves microcirculation, nutrient delivery, wound healing, and barrier restoration. Ion-pair formulations with glutamic acid enhance percutaneous absorption.
Limited Data
Insufficient safety data available. Consider enriching this ingredient.
Details

Description

Nitric oxide precursor; improves microcirculation, nutrient delivery, wound healing, and barrier restoration. Ion-pair formulations with glutamic acid enhance percutaneous absorption.

Purpose

Function

Nitric oxide precursor; improves microcirculation, nutrient delivery, wound healing, and barrier restoration. Ion-pair formulations with glutamic acid enhance percutaneous absorption.
Profile

Properties

Silicone
Silicone free
Compliance

Regulatory Status

EU
Permitted
Safety
EXCELLENT
US
Permitted
Absorptionlow
Sensitizationnone
MoSadequate
NOAEL3318 mg/kg
ConcernNone
Flags
eu_children_restrictedfda_food_additivejecfa_safe
Verdict

L-Arginine is the sole precursor for nitric oxide synthesis in skin with GRAS status from FDA and CIR safety confirmation. Ion-pair formulations demonstrate superior wound healing, barrier restoration, and elasticity improvement with no safety concerns at typical use levels.

US Note

Classified GRAS by FDA as a direct food additive. CIR Expert Panel found safe as used in cosmetics.

Assessment

Ratings

Comedogenic0/5
LowHigh
Irritancy0/5
LowHigh
Reference

Identifiers

CAS Number
74-79-3
INCI
ARGININE
Category
active
Updated
Apr 2, 2026