Ingredient glossary

Phytic Acid

INCI: Phytic Acid

Promising, not proven

Early signs are interesting, but the proof is not in yet. Worth watching, not worth a premium.

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What it does

  • brightening
  • mild exfoliation
  • antioxidant

emerging evidenceFormulation and early clinical data describe phytic acid as a mild AHA alternative that brightens and refines skin with less irritation than stronger acids.

On a label: works best above 1%.

Who it's for, and who should skip it

Tends to suit

  • pigmentation
  • dullness
  • sensitive

Approach with care

No specific group flagged to avoid it.

  • Clogs poresLow
  • Irritation riskLow
  • pH-dependentIts effect depends on the product's pH

Plays well with

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Educational information about a cosmetic ingredient, not medical advice.