N-Acetyl Glucosamine
(NAG)
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N-acetyl glucosamine is considered to be a “skin identical ingredient”, meaning
it’s found in our skin in the spaces between the cells, and it is used to
maintain skin’s barrier abilities and reduce dryness. Studies have shown that
NAG can increase collagen production, increase moisture content of the skin,
increase elasticity of the skin, increase exfoliation, and increase the speed of
wound healing.
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NAG has been shown to reduce hyperpigmentation and can be combined with
Niacinamide to further increase its ability to reduce hyperpigmentation.
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A similar study using Niacinamide and NAG on women 35 to 60 showed an increase
in the production of hyaluronic acid, a water binding polymer found in the skin,
which resulted in improved hydration. This increase resulted in a reduction of
appearance of fine lines, particularly around the eye area, and an increase in
the elasticity of skin.
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In vitro studies have shown that NAG can induce changes and increase
proliferation of skin’s fibroblasts, which can lead to increased healing of
wounds. It can also lead to increased collagen expression and proliferation of keratinocytes.
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N-Acetyl Glucosamine is an amino sugar that has skin exfoliating properties
similar to alpha and beta hydroxyl acids without the irriation. NAG can
normalize the exfoliation of the stratum corneum, so it can be a good
replacement for acid based exfoliation ingredients that might annoy sensitive or
rosacea prone skin.
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High concentrations of NAG - as high as 10% - have not shown noticeable
irritation of the skin. It is soluble at up to 25%, although only solutions
below 10% will remain clear and colorless.
Key attributes:
- Increases hyaluronic acid production in the skin
- Repairs and treat sun damage
- Reduces the appearance of wrinkles
- Accelerates wound healing
- Reduces trans-epidermal water loss
- Improves skin tone
- Improves barrier function
- Reduces hyperpigmentation
- Improves skin hydration
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