What it is
Carnitine is a low-molecular-weight, water-soluble compound related to amino acids that occurs naturally in the body and in many foods. In topical formulations it is used as a skin-conditioning ingredient and is sometimes included for its proposed role in supporting lipid handling in skin. It is highly water-soluble and is typically incorporated into the aqueous phase of emulsions.
Safety & warnings
Carnitine is generally regarded as well tolerated on skin at the levels used in cosmetics and is not a recognized fragrance allergen or comedogenic oil.
Origin & sourcing
Carnitine used in cosmetics is generally produced by synthesis or fermentation rather than extracted from plants or animals.
Questions everyone asks
What does carnitine do in a sunscreen?
It acts as a skin-conditioning agent and humectant, contributing to the overall feel of the formula rather than to UV protection.
Is carnitine the same as L-carnitine?
Cosmetic carnitine is commonly the L-form, often labeled L-carnitine; the INCI name carnitine refers to the same general compound.