What Is Sodium Zinc Histidine Dithiooctanamide?
Sodium Zinc Histidine Dithiooctanamide is a lab-crafted compound that joins the amino acid histidine with zinc and a sulfur-rich octanamide backbone. The result is a water-soluble powder that slips easily into modern skin care formulas. It was first explored by cosmetic chemists in the early 2000s while they searched for stable zinc complexes that could fight surface oxidation without leaving a white cast. By bonding zinc to histidine and shielding it with sulfur groups, researchers created a molecule that holds its antioxidant power longer than plain zinc salts.
The ingredient is produced through a multi-step synthesis. Histidine is first modified with an octanoyl chloride to form an amide. Zinc ions are then introduced in the presence of sulfur donors, creating a small ring that locks the metal in place. Finally, sodium is added to improve water dispersibility and control pH. The finished raw material looks like a fine ivory powder that dissolves into clear solutions.
You will most often see Sodium Zinc Histidine Dithiooctanamide in leave-on products where prolonged protection is key: light serums, daily moisturizers, anti-aging creams, sheet masks and overnight repair treatments. Formulators choose it when they want zinc’s calming touch without the heaviness of zinc oxide.
Sodium Zinc Histidine Dithiooctanamide’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient plays one main role in skin care formulas.
Antioxidant: It scavenges surface free radicals that form when skin meets sunlight, pollution or stress. By limiting this oxidative damage, the molecule helps keep skin tone even while supporting a smoother firmer look. Because the zinc is tightly chelated, the antioxidant effect stays active for longer periods, allowing products to claim all-day environmental defense.
Who Can Use Sodium Zinc Histidine Dithiooctanamide
This antioxidant is generally kind to all skin types. Dry and mature skin appreciate its protective support, while oily or acne-prone skin benefits from the lightweight, non-pore-clogging nature of the molecule. Sensitive skin often tolerates it well thanks to its low salt content, though anyone with a known zinc or sulfur allergy should proceed with caution.
The compound is produced entirely through synthetic steps with no animal-derived reagents, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
Topical zinc complexes like this one are not known to pose problems for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when used at common cosmetic levels. This is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should run their routine by a qualified healthcare provider to be safe.
Sodium Zinc Histidine Dithiooctanamide does not cause photosensitivity. In fact, its free-radical quenching ability can complement daily sunscreen use by adding an extra layer of environmental defense.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Sodium Zinc Histidine Dithiooctanamide vary from person to person. The effects below are possible but uncommon when the ingredient is formulated and used as intended.
- Mild stinging or burning on very compromised skin
- Transient redness or warmth after application
- Contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to zinc or sulfur compounds
- Dry patches if paired with overly strong exfoliating acids
- Eye irritation if the product migrates into the eye area
If any persistent discomfort or rash develops stop using the product and consult a medical professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0–1
Sodium Zinc Histidine Dithiooctanamide is highly water soluble and does not leave an oily or occlusive film on the skin. Its molecular size is small enough to rinse or absorb cleanly yet not so large that it sits on the surface and traps debris. The zinc-histidine complex also has mild sebum-balancing properties that discourage pore congestion. For these reasons formulators consider it virtually non-comedogenic, landing between 0 and 1 on the standard scale.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
As with all ingredients overall formula matters: heavy emollients paired with this antioxidant could still clog pores, so check the full ingredient list rather than judging a product by one component.
Summary
Sodium Zinc Histidine Dithiooctanamide is first and foremost an antioxidant that neutralizes surface free radicals produced by sunlight, pollution and everyday stress. By locking zinc inside a histidine-sulfur ring the molecule keeps its metal ion stable and active, giving long-lasting protection against oxidative damage and helping skin maintain an even tone and smoother feel.
Despite its solid science it remains a niche addition seen mostly in newer serums and moisturizers that market extended environmental defense. Its gentle profile, vegan origin and low comedogenicity make it an attractive option for brands looking to stand out.
Current safety data show it is well tolerated across skin types with only rare irritation in those sensitive to zinc or sulfur. Still every skin is unique so patch testing a new product is wise before full-face use.