Characteristics
- INCI
- Adenosine
- CAS
-
58-61-7
This is the substance number in the Chemical Abstracts Service registry. The CAS number uniquely identifies a substance regardless of language, trade name, or synonyms.
- EC
-
200-389-9
This is the substance number in the European chemical identification system (EC number), used in European regulatory databases including ECHA/CosIng.
- IUPAC
- 6-Amino-9-Beta-D-Ribofuranosyl-9H-Purine
- Functions
- skin conditioning
Who it's for
Skin Type
▲ Dry
▲ Oily
▲ Combination
▲ Normal
▲ Sensitive
▲ Acne-Prone
Face Concern
▲ Anti-Aging
▲ Barrier Repair
▲ Soothing
▲ Firming
Hair Concern
▲ Fine Hair
▲ Hair Loss
▲ Scalp Health
Application Area
▲ Face
▲ Hair
▲ Scalp
Description
Adenosine is an important little compound in our body that has a vital cell-signalling role. Research on smearing it on our face is also promising and shows so far a couple of things:
- It can help withwound healing
- It’s a good anti-inflammatory agent
- It might even help with skin’s own collagen production and improve skin firmness and elasticity
- It helps with barrier repair and protection
- It might be even useful for the hair helping with hair thickness and hair growth
Frequently Asked Questions about Adenosine
What does adenosine do in skincare?
Adenosine is used in skincare mainly for its skin-soothing and anti-wrinkle effects. It is thought to support the skin’s energy processes and may help improve the look of fine lines and elasticity over time. It is commonly included in creams and serums, especially in products marketed for aging skin.
Is adenosine good for wrinkles?
Yes, adenosine is often used in anti-aging products because it can help smooth the appearance of wrinkles and improve skin texture. Its effects are generally modest and gradual rather than dramatic. It works best as part of a broader routine that also includes sunscreen and moisturizers.
Can adenosine help with hair growth?
Adenosine is sometimes used in hair products because some studies suggest it may support hair thickness and reduce hair loss in certain people. The evidence is more limited than for some other hair-loss ingredients, so results can vary. It is usually found in scalp tonics or shampoos rather than in leave-on skincare products.
Is adenosine the same as the caffeine-related adenosine in the body?
No, the adenosine used in cosmetics is the same molecule found in the body, but it is being used topically for skin or hair care rather than for its biological role in the brain or heart. It is also different from compounds like ATP or ADP, which are other adenosine-containing molecules involved in energy metabolism. Cosmetic adenosine should not be confused with medical adenosine used in hospital settings.
Is adenosine safe to use on skin?
Adenosine is generally considered safe and well tolerated in cosmetics. It is not known for being a common irritant and is often included in formulas for sensitive or aging skin. As with any ingredient, a product’s full formula matters, so the other ingredients may be more likely to cause irritation than adenosine itself.
Evidence & Research on Adenosine
Scientific publications & sources
5
-
1
Journal of Investigative Dermatology, (2012) 132, 526–546, Purinergic Signaling in Healthy and Diseased Skin
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2
International Journal of Cosmetic Science, Volume 28 (6) – Dec 1, 2006, Evaluation of anti‐wrinkle efficacy of adenosine‐containing products using the FOITS technique
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3
J Invest Dermatol 119: 1034-1040 (2002)., P2X purinergic receptor antagonist accelerates skin barrier repair and prevents epidermal hyperplasia induced by skin barrier disruption.
-
4
J Invest Dermatol, 129: S67 (2009)., Adenosine is effective on hair diameter and hair density of male pattern hair loss in Caucasian
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5
Int J Cosmet Sci. 2006 Dec; 28(6): 447-51., Evaluation of anti-wrinkle efficacy of adenosine-containing products using the FOITS technique.Find in PubMed
Products with Adenosine (9 620 total)
Hair
Face Care
Body Care
Decorative Cosmetics
Hands & Nails
Most often found in Missha products (207 items)
