What Is Aminolevulinic Acid Phosphate?
Aminolevulinic Acid Phosphate is the phosphate salt of 5-aminolevulinic acid, a small water-soluble molecule classed as a pentanoic acid derivative. By attaching a phosphate group to the parent compound, chemists improve its stability in water-based formulas and make it easier to incorporate into topical products. The raw material is typically synthesized in a lab through controlled fermentation or chemical synthesis of 5-aminolevulinic acid, followed by a phosphorylation step that uses food-grade phosphoric acid. This controlled process ensures purity, batch consistency and suitability for cosmetic use.
Interest in aminolevulinic acid started in medical research, where the compound’s light-responsive properties were explored. As formulators looked for new ways to boost skin hydration without heavy oils, the phosphate form of the molecule attracted attention thanks to its ability to bind water and remain stable in a wide pH range. It gradually made its way into the cosmetic world in the early 2000s when brands began adding it to sheet masks and gel creams marketed for intensive moisture care. Today you can find Aminolevulinic Acid Phosphate in hydrating serums, leave-on masks, anti-aging lotions focusing on plumpness, and after-sun gels that aim to replenish moisture.
Aminolevulinic Acid Phosphate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In cosmetics this ingredient serves one primary purpose that delivers clear benefits for the skin.
Humectant: Aminolevulinic Acid Phosphate attracts and holds water molecules, helping the formula draw moisture from the environment and the deeper layers of the skin to the surface. This boosts immediate skin hydration, supports a smoother texture, and can make fine lines caused by dryness look less noticeable. Because it is lightweight and water-compatible, it layers well under other products without leaving a heavy or greasy feel, making it suitable for all skin types including oily or combination skin.
Who Can Use Aminolevulinic Acid Phosphate
This humectant is considered suitable for most skin types, including dry, normal, combination and oily skin, because it adds water without adding oil or occlusive weight. Even sensitive skin generally tolerates it well thanks to its low molecular weight and neutral charge, though anyone with a known sensitivity to amino acid derivatives should stay alert to possible irritation.
Aminolevulinic Acid Phosphate is produced through microbial fermentation or synthetic chemistry that does not involve animal derivatives, so it is appropriate for vegans and vegetarians.
The ingredient has no known hormonal activity and is not absorbed into the bloodstream in significant amounts, so current data suggest it is safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. This is not medical advice and pregnant or nursing individuals should show any product containing it to their healthcare provider before use to be safe.
The phosphate form lacks the light-activated properties seen in the medical version of aminolevulinic acid, so it is not considered photosensitising. Standard daytime sun protection is still recommended whenever you use skincare, but there is no extra photo caution required with this ingredient.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Aminolevulinic Acid Phosphate differ from person to person. The following points list potential issues that could occur, though most users will not experience them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Mild stinging or tingling especially on very dry or compromised skin barriers
- Temporary redness that usually subsides within minutes as the product dries down
- Localised irritation if combined with high levels of exfoliating acids or retinoids in the same routine
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to the molecule or other formula components
- Rare transient discoloration (slight yellowing) of the product on skin when exposed to very high heat during storage which can signal degradation
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5 (non-comedogenic)
Aminolevulinic Acid Phosphate is a small water-soluble molecule with no oil content, waxes or film-forming properties that could block pores. It quickly dissolves in the aqueous phase of a formula and evaporates or is absorbed along with water, leaving no residue that could trap sebum or dead skin cells. For these reasons it is very unlikely to contribute to blackheads, whiteheads or cystic breakouts.
Because of its 0 rating, the ingredient is generally suitable for acne-prone or congestion-prone skin.
Only extremely high concentrations combined with heavy occlusives might alter this picture, but in real-world skincare levels it remains a safe choice for clear-skin routines.
Summary
Aminolevulinic Acid Phosphate is used in cosmetics as a humectant. It binds water through hydrogen bonding, pulls that water into the upper layers of the skin and holds it there long enough to improve softness and reduce the appearance of fine dry lines. Its phosphate group keeps it stable and easy to formulate across a range of pH settings.
While glycerin and hyaluronic acid dominate the hydration space, this ingredient is slowly gaining attention in sheet masks, ampoules and lightweight gels aimed at consumers who want fresh hydration without tackiness.
Current research and post-market experience show it to be low risk for irritation, photosensitivity or systemic absorption when used as directed. As with any new skincare product, performing a patch test before full-face use is a smart precaution.