What Is Aminosuberic Acid?
Aminosuberic Acid, also written as (S)-2-aminooctanedioic acid, is a non essential amino acid that can be produced through controlled laboratory fermentation or by step-wise chemical synthesis. It does not usually come straight from plants or animals but is built from smaller carbon units that are linked and then refined until they reach cosmetic grade purity. The molecule has eight carbon atoms with both amino and carboxylic acid groups, giving it a gentle acidity and a natural ability to hold water.
Chemists first noted Aminosuberic Acid while studying modified proteins in the mid 1900s. Its skin care story began later when formulators looked for mild, plant-free softening agents that would not feel greasy. Because Aminosuberic Acid blends smoothly with water and oil phases, it soon found a place in lotions and creams focused on lightweight hydration.
Today you will most often spot it in daily moisturizers, soothing serums, sheet masks, leave-on conditioners, anti aging creams and after-sun gels. Its small size lets it slip easily into both clear and creamy formulas, helping them glide over the skin without a heavy residue.
Aminosuberic Acid’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
When you see Aminosuberic Acid on an ingredient list it is there mainly as an emollient. As an emollient it fills the tiny gaps on the skin surface so rough patches feel smoother almost right away. It also helps bind a light film of moisture to the skin, improving softness and flexibility and making the overall formula feel silkier during application.
Who Can Use Aminosuberic Acid
Aminosuberic Acid’s light, non greasy feel makes it suitable for nearly every skin type. Dry and mature skin benefit from the added softness, while combination and oily skin enjoy the quick-absorbing finish that does not leave a heavy film. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well because it is not acidic enough to disturb the natural barrier, though anyone with a known allergy to amino acids should stay cautious.
The ingredient is produced by lab fermentation or chemical synthesis, not taken from animals, so both vegans and vegetarians can use products that list Aminosuberic Acid with confidence.
No research points to risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women at the concentrations found in cosmetics, yet this is not medical advice. Expectant or nursing mothers should let their doctor review any new skincare routine just to be safe.
Aminosuberic Acid does not trigger photosensitivity, so it can be worn during the day without raising sun-related concerns. As with any new addition to a routine, how well it performs also depends on the overall formula and a person’s unique skin condition.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects can vary from person to person. The points below outline potential reactions, but most users will not experience these issues when the ingredient is used correctly in a well-formulated product.
- Mild redness or warmth right after application
- Temporary itching or tingling on very sensitive skin
- Rare contact allergy leading to small bumps or a rash
- In extremely oil-rich routines a slight chance of clogged pores
If you notice any of these reactions stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0-1 out of 5
Aminosuberic Acid is a small water soluble amino acid that creates a weightless moisture film instead of an oily layer, so it is unlikely to clog pores. Its absence of heavy lipids keeps the comedogenic risk extremely low, securing a spot at the very bottom of the scale.
Well suited for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
If the ingredient appears alongside rich butters or thick oils, the finished product could still feel heavy so checking the full formula is wise.
Summary
Aminosuberic Acid serves mainly as an emollient, smoothing rough patches and subtly binding moisture thanks to its amino and carboxylic groups. Its compact structure lets it fill tiny surface gaps, boosting softness without greasiness.
While not a headline ingredient, its lightweight feel is earning quiet popularity in modern moisturizers, serums and after-sun gels.
Safety data point to a very low irritation risk and no known long term concerns, yet performing a quick patch test whenever you introduce a product containing Aminosuberic Acid remains the safest approach.