Article last updated: October 15, 2024
10-Hydroxydecanoic acid, often referred to as 10-HDA, is a naturally occurring fatty acid primarily sourced from royal jelly, a secretion produced by honeybees. Chemically, it is known as 10-hydroxydecanoic acid, and it belongs to the family of hydroxy fatty acids. This ingredient has garnered attention in the cosmetic industry for its skin conditioning properties, making it a popular choice in various skincare formulations.
The history of 10-Hydroxydecanoic acid in cosmetics is relatively recent, although its source, royal jelly, has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and skincare. Royal jelly has long been prized for its purported health benefits, and it wasn’t until modern scientific methods allowed for the isolation and identification of its individual components that 10-HDA was recognized for its unique properties. Researchers discovered that this specific fatty acid could offer significant benefits for skin health, leading to its incorporation into cosmetic products.
The production of 10-Hydroxydecanoic acid involves the extraction of royal jelly from honeybee colonies, followed by a series of purification processes to isolate the 10-HDA. This typically involves solvent extraction and chromatography techniques to ensure a high purity of the final product. The isolated 10-HDA is then formulated into various skincare products, where it functions primarily as a skin conditioning agent, helping to maintain the skin’s moisture balance and overall health.
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized cosmetic benefits and uses of 10-Hydroxydecanoic Acid:
10-Hydroxydecanoic Acid is primarily known for its skin conditioning properties. This means it helps to maintain the skin in good condition by improving its appearance and texture. When included in cosmetic formulations, this ingredient works to keep the skin soft, smooth, and hydrated. It can be particularly beneficial in products designed for dry or rough skin, as it aids in restoring suppleness and elasticity.
Note: the listed benefits above are exclusively based on the officially recognized and defined functions of the ingredient, as documented by the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI).
10-Hydroxydecanoic acid is generally considered safe for topical application in cosmetic products. However, as with any ingredient, there are potential side effects and considerations to keep in mind.
Regarding individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding, data and research on the topical usage of 10-Hydroxydecanoic acid during pregnancy are lacking. Therefore, it is advisable for pregnant or breastfeeding women to consult a healthcare professional for further advice before using products containing this ingredient.
Side effects and adverse reactions to 10-Hydroxydecanoic acid are relatively uncommon. However, to minimize the risk of an adverse reaction, it is recommended to conduct a patch test before widespread usage.
In terms of comedogenicity, 10-Hydroxydecanoic acid has a rating of 1 on a scale of 0 to 5, where 0 is totally non-comedogenic and 5 is highly comedogenic. This low rating means it is unlikely to clog pores, making it generally suitable for people prone to acne, blemishes, or breakouts.
