Ingredient glossary
N-Acetyl Glucosamine
INCI: N-Acetyl Glucosamine · Also: NAG
Worth paying for
Does N-Acetyl Glucosamine clash with what you already use? Check it →Strong results with strong evidence behind them. This is one genuinely worth having in a formula.
What it does
- brightening
- barrier support
- hydration
strong evidenceDouble blind split face and full face trials using two percent NAG alone or with four percent niacinamide show significant reductions in hyperpigmented spot area and more even melanin distribution with added hydration and fine line improvement.
On a label: usually effective at 2%.
Who it's for, and who should skip it
Tends to suit
- pigmentation
- postinflammatory hyperpigmentation
- photoaged
- dry
- sensitive
Approach with care
No specific group flagged to avoid it.
- Clogs poresLow
- Irritation riskLow
Plays well with
- niacinamide
- vitamin c
- ceramides
This, for every label you own
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Educational information about a cosmetic ingredient, not medical advice.