What it is
Tetrahydropiperine is a hydrogenated form of piperine, the alkaloid responsible for the pungency of black pepper. In cosmetics it is used at low concentrations as a skin-conditioning ingredient, and it has been studied for its ability to interact with the skin. It appears as a minor functional ingredient in some treatment skincare and sunscreen formulations.
Safety & warnings
Pepper-derived compounds can be irritating or warming to the skin, so this ingredient is used at low levels; sensitive individuals may experience tingling or irritation, and patch testing is reasonable for reactive skin.
Origin & sourcing
Derived from piperine, which is obtained from black pepper, and then hydrogenated; the supplied material is a semi-synthetic derivative of the natural alkaloid.
Questions everyone asks
What is tetrahydropiperine made from?
It is a hydrogenated derivative of piperine, the pungent alkaloid found in black pepper.
What is its role in skincare?
It is used at low levels as a skin-conditioning ingredient.