Manganese Pyridylmethylaminoethyl Pyridinyltriazacyclododecane Hcl: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: July 1, 2025
Share:
Inside this article:

We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Manganese Pyridylmethylaminoethyl Pyridinyltriazacyclododecane Hcl?

Manganese Pyridylmethylaminoethyl Pyridinyltriazacyclododecane HCl is a lab-crafted complex built around manganese, a trace mineral known for its stabilizing qualities. Chemists link manganese to a ring-shaped molecule that contains nitrogen and two pyridine groups, then finish the structure with hydrochloride to keep it water-friendly. The ingredient does not come from plants or animals; it is produced by reacting purified manganese salts with the organic ring in controlled reactors, followed by careful filtration and drying steps to get a high-purity powder.

The compound first drew interest from researchers looking for gentler ways to protect products against unwanted microbes. Its ability to stay active in both water-based and light oil systems made it a useful alternative to older preservatives that sometimes irritated skin. Over the past decade, formulators have adopted it in leave-on and rinse-off products where a low-dose, broad-spectrum antimicrobial is needed.

You will most often see Manganese Pyridylmethylaminoethyl Pyridinyltriazacyclododecane HCl in face masks, lightweight moisturizers, anti-aging serums, refreshing mists and specialty treatments aimed at keeping formulas fresh without relying on traditional parabens or formaldehyde releasers.

Manganese Pyridylmethylaminoethyl Pyridinyltriazacyclododecane Hcl’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient serves a single but important purpose in cosmetics.

As an antimicrobial, it helps curb the growth of bacteria, mold and yeast inside the product so the formula stays safe and effective for its full shelf life. By keeping contamination in check, it allows brands to reduce the overall level of preservatives, which can make the final product gentler on skin while still meeting strict safety standards.

Who Can Use Manganese Pyridylmethylaminoethyl Pyridinyltriazacyclododecane Hcl

This preservative is generally suitable for all skin types including oily, combination, normal and dry skin because it is used at very low levels and has a mild profile. Sensitive skin users often tolerate it well, though those with a history of preservative allergies should stay alert for any signs of irritation.

The molecule is made entirely in the lab from mineral and petrochemical feedstocks, so it contains no animal-derived components. That makes it appropriate for vegans and vegetarians.

Current safety assessments have not flagged special risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used as directed in finished cosmetics. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should discuss all personal care products with a healthcare professional to be extra safe.

Manganese Pyridylmethylaminoethyl Pyridinyltriazacyclododecane HCl does not make skin more prone to sunburn, so it is considered non-photosensitizing. It is also odorless and colorless in formulations, so it will not affect fragrance or tint.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Manganese Pyridylmethylaminoethyl Pyridinyltriazacyclododecane HCl can vary from person to person. The issues listed below are possible but not common. When the ingredient is used correctly in a well-formulated product most people experience no problems.

Transient stinging or burning on freshly shaved or compromised skin

Redness or mild irritation in individuals with preservative sensitivities

Rare allergic contact dermatitis presenting as itching or rash

Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes

If any of these effects occur stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)

This manganese complex is highly water soluble, used at fractions of a percent and leaves no oily or waxy film on the skin. It does not clog pores or interfere with sebum flow, so the chance of it triggering comedones is virtually nil.

Suitable for acne-prone skin.

Because it functions strictly as an in-formula antimicrobial, it is usually paired with lightweight textures often marketed to breakout-prone users, which further reduces pore-clogging concerns.

Summary

Manganese Pyridylmethylaminoethyl Pyridinyltriazacyclododecane HCl is a lab-made preservative that keeps bacteria, yeast and mold out of cosmetic formulas by releasing trace levels of manganese that disrupt microbial metabolism. Its water friendliness lets it patrol both water and light oil phases so brands can use fewer or gentler preservative helpers.

You will not find it in every product on the shelf; it remains a niche option favored by indie and clean-leaning lines that want an alternative to parabens or formaldehyde releasers. Those who do use it appreciate its mildness, colorless nature and negligible scent.

Current safety reviews classify it as low risk at the small amounts found in skincare and haircare. Still, everyone’s skin is unique so patch testing a new product is always a smart move before full-face use.

Was this article helpful?
More from Glooshi:
ADVERTISEMENT
Get all our top headlines in beauty.
Delivered right to your inbox each week. Zero spam, all goodness, opt-out at anytime.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Get the latest beauty news, top product recommendations & brand-exclusive discount codes direct to your inbox.
Send good feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Send bad feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Search