What Is Prasterone?
Prasterone is the cosmetic name for dehydroepiandrosterone, a small molecule that belongs to the steroid family. In nature it is made in the human body as a precursor to certain skin friendly hormones. For commercial use it is usually produced from plant sources like wild yam or soy. Makers extract a substance called diosgenin from the plant then run it through a series of simple chemical steps that convert it into prasterone of high purity.
The ingredient was first isolated in the 1950s and soon became a focus of research because of its role in youthful looking skin. By the 1990s laboratories had begun adding prasterone to test creams to see whether it could help dryness and loss of firmness linked to aging. Positive results led formulators to include it in regular cosmetic lines sold today.
Prasterone can be found in leave-on products such as anti aging creams, rich moisturizers, night serums, body lotions, eye treatments, sheet masks and occasionally scalp or hand treatments where extra conditioning is desired.
Prasterone’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
When placed on the skin prasterone serves one key purpose that makes it valuable to formulators.
Skin Conditioning: Prasterone supports the skin’s natural moisture balance helping it feel softer and look smoother. It can improve the appearance of fine surface lines caused by dryness and give a more supple texture overall. Because it is compatible with the skin’s own lipids it blends well with creams and can enhance the comfortable after-feel of a product.
Who Can Use Prasterone
Prasterone is generally suitable for normal, dry and mature skin types because of its moisture boosting action. Oily or acne-prone skin can also use it in lightweight formulas but very blemish-prone users may prefer to patch test first since richer textures can sometimes feel heavy.
The ingredient itself is sourced from plants like wild yam or soy so products using plant-derived prasterone are acceptable for vegetarians and vegans. Check labels to confirm the source as a small number of medical versions may use animal-derived raw material.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should speak with their doctor before adding any new skincare that contains a hormone precursor such as prasterone. This article is not medical advice and professional guidance is the safest route.
Prasterone does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and does not reduce the need for daily sunscreen. It also blends well with common actives like vitamin C or peptides without known conflicts.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical prasterone differ from person to person. The effects listed below are possible but not expected for most users when the product is formulated and used correctly.
• Mild redness or warmth at the application site
• Temporary itching or tingling
• Light swelling in very sensitive skin
• Breakouts in users prone to clogged pores when using a heavy cream base
If any of these effects occur discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5 Prasterone itself is a small lightweight molecule that does not sit on the surface like heavy oils, so it has very little tendency to clog pores. Any breakouts reported are usually linked to the cream or balm that carries it rather than the ingredient on its own. For that reason it scores a low 1 out of 5 and is generally fine for skin that breaks out easily. Keep an eye on the overall formula since thick butters or waxes can raise the clogging risk.
Summary
Prasterone conditions skin by supporting its natural moisture barrier which helps reduce dryness and softens the look of fine lines. It does this by blending with skin lipids and improving water retention, giving a smoother more supple feel.
While not as famous as retinol or vitamin C, prasterone has a steady following in niche anti aging creams and body lotions where extra moisture and firmness are desired. Its plant-derived origin also appeals to users seeking vegan friendly options.
The ingredient is considered safe for most people when used in standard cosmetic levels and has a very low record of irritation. As with any new skincare product it is wise to perform a small patch test first to make sure your skin stays happy.