N-Acetyl L-Cysteine (NAC) is an acetylated derivative of the amino acid L-Cysteine. It is a sulfur-containing compound with a reactive thiol (-SH) group, which gives it strong reducing and antioxidant properties. NAC is associated with glutathione metabolism and is widely recognized for its antioxidant properties. For cosmetic products, it is best marketed as an antioxidant and skin-conditioning raw material. N-Acetyl L-Cysteine (NAC) Powder is a water-soluble amino acid derivative valued in cosmetic formulations for its antioxidant and skin-conditioning properties. It is suitable for brightening, anti-aging, antioxidant, clarifying, hair-care and scalp-care formulations.
Product Name: N-Acetyl L-Cysteine (NAC) Powder
INCI Name: Acetyl Cysteine
Chemical Name: N-Acetyl-L-cysteine
CAS No.: 616-91-1
Molecular Formula: C₅H₉NO₃S
Molecular Weight: 163.19 g/mol
Appearance: White to off-white crystalline powder
Solubility: Soluble in water
Function: Antioxidant / Skin-conditioning ingredient
Cosmetic & Skincare Uses
Application / Benefits / Function
Antioxidant Serums: Helps protect against oxidative stress
Brightening Products: Supports brighter, more even-looking skin
Anti-Aging Formulations: Helps support antioxidant protection against environmental stressors
Skin Conditioning: Helps maintain healthy-looking, conditioned skin
Clarifying Formulations: Suitable for products designed for oily or blemish-prone skin
Hair Care: Can be incorporated into antioxidant and conditioning hair products
Scalp Care: Suitable for scalp-conditioning formulations
Amino Acid Complexes: Can be combined with other amino acids in cosmetic formulations
How to Use in Cosmetics
NAC is water-soluble, so it is generally incorporated into the water phase of a formulation. A practical development range is approximately 0.1–2%, depending on the product and desired application.
For example, at 1%, use 10 g NAC per 1 kg of finished product.
One formulation consideration is its sulfur-containing thiol group. NAC can develop a sulfur-like odor, particularly in water-based formulations, and oxidation may affect stability or color. Compatibility and stability testing of the finished formula are recommended.
N-Acetyl L-Cysteine (NAC) Powder
