What Is Nordihydroguaiaretic Acid?
Nordihydroguaiaretic Acid (often shortened to NDGA) is a plant-derived antioxidant found naturally in the creosote bush, a hardy shrub that thrives in the deserts of North and South America. Chemically, it is a type of polyphenol known for having two catechol rings, a structure that helps it neutralize free radicals before they can harm skin-supporting molecules like collagen and lipids.
NDGA was first studied in the 1940s as a food preservative thanks to its strong ability to slow down oxidation. Over time, researchers noticed that the same protective action could be valuable in skin care, and by the late 1990s formulators began adding purified NDGA to cosmetic products to help keep both the product and the skin in better condition.
Commercially, most NDGA used in cosmetics is produced by solvent extraction of creosote bush leaves and stems followed by purification steps that remove impurities and standardize potency. Some suppliers also offer a lab-synthesized version that matches the natural molecule but avoids seasonal harvest limits.
You are most likely to see NDGA in antioxidant serums, anti-aging creams, daily moisturizers, restorative masks and after-sun treatments. It is often paired with vitamins C and E or botanical oils to create a broad defense system against environmental stressors.
Nordihydroguaiaretic Acid’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
NDGA brings one key benefit to skin care formulas:
Antioxidant: By scavenging free radicals, NDGA helps reduce the oxidative stress that can lead to dull tone, fine lines and a weakened skin barrier. In a product, this not only supports healthier looking skin but also helps stabilize other sensitive ingredients, extending the shelf life and performance of the formula.
Who Can Use Nordihydroguaiaretic Acid
NDGA is considered gentle enough for most skin types, including dry, normal, combination and oily skin, because it does not add extra oil or strip existing moisture. Sensitive skin can usually tolerate it as the molecule is small and non-irritating, though anyone with a known allergy to the creosote bush family should be cautious.
The ingredient is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Commercial NDGA is either extracted from the creosote bush or synthesized in a lab, so animal-derived materials are not involved in its sourcing or production.
There is little specific research on topical NDGA use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Current data suggest it stays near the skin surface when applied in cosmetic amounts, making systemic absorption minimal, but this is not medical advice. Pregnant or nursing individuals should show any product containing NDGA to their physician before adding it to a routine just to be safe.
NDGA does not increase photosensitivity. In fact, as an antioxidant it may help defend against some free-radical damage triggered by UV light, although it does not replace sunscreen and daily SPF use is still necessary.
Because NDGA is non-volatile and fragrance-free it rarely conflicts with other common skincare actives, so it can be layered with ingredients such as retinol or niacinamide without issue.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical NDGA vary from person to person. The effects listed below are possible but uncommon when the ingredient is used at cosmetic concentrations and manufactured correctly.
- Mild redness or warmth right after application
- Transient stinging on very compromised or freshly exfoliated skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to creosote bush derivatives
- Rare skin dryness if the formula lacks counterbalancing hydrators
If you notice any of these issues, stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)
NDGA is a lightweight polyphenol with no oily or waxy residues that could block pores. It is typically used at very low percentages and sits on the skin surface without forming a film that traps sebum or dead cells. For these reasons formulators regard it as non-comedogenic.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
Because NDGA is often paired with richer emollients, check the overall formula rather than judging by this single ingredient alone.
Summary
Nordihydroguaiaretic Acid is valued in skincare as a potent antioxidant that shields the skin’s proteins, lipids and other delicate molecules from free-radical damage while also helping stabilize the product itself. It accomplishes this by donating electrons from its two catechol rings, neutralizing reactive oxygen species before they can degrade collagen or sensitive actives.
Although NDGA has been studied for decades its use in cosmetics is still relatively niche compared to staples like vitamins C or E, showing up mainly in higher-end serums or specialized after-sun formulas. Those who do try it often appreciate its lightweight feel and compatibility with other actives.
Current data indicate NDGA is safe for topical use at cosmetic levels with minimal risk of irritation or sensitization for most skin types. As with any new product it is wise to perform a simple patch test first to rule out personal sensitivities.