What it is
Creatinine is a low-molecular-weight compound that occurs naturally in the body as a metabolic byproduct and is produced synthetically for cosmetic use. In skincare formulas it functions as a skin-conditioning ingredient. It is typically used at low levels as part of a supporting ingredient blend.
Safety & warnings
Creatinine is generally well tolerated as a cosmetic conditioning ingredient at the levels used in skincare.
Origin & sourcing
Manufactured synthetically for cosmetic use; the same molecule also occurs naturally as a normal metabolic byproduct in the body.
Questions everyone asks
What is creatinine in skincare?
It is a small organic molecule used as a skin-conditioning agent, distinct from its role as a natural metabolic byproduct in the body.
Is cosmetic creatinine natural or synthetic?
The grade used in cosmetics is produced synthetically, though the identical molecule also occurs naturally in the body.