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Identity Profile: Erythrulose
Commonly known as:
L-erythrulose, S-1,3,4-trihydroxybutan-2-one, L-glycero-tetrulose, glycerotetrulose, tetrulose, erythrulose.
I.N.C.I. list name:
Erythrulose.
Extraction process:
Aerobic fermentation of the Gluconobacter bacteria followed by several stages of purification (biotransformation).
Source:
Sugar cane.
Botanical name:
Poaceae.
Family:
Saccharum officinarum.
Part of the plant extracted:
Stems.
Provenance, origin:
/
Chemical characteristics:
Natural ketonic sugar (tetrose); Molar mass: 120.104 g/mol; Soluble in water; Insoluble in oil; Recommended pH: between 2.0 and 5.0; Density: 1.39 g/cm3.
Characteristics:
True solution, emulsion, suspension.
Dosage required in cosmetic products:
Found in concentrations between 1 and 5%.
Function:
Tanning agent.
Properties:
Self-tanning, moisturising.
Benefits:
All skin types.
Details
Properties
Self-tanning: Achieving a natural tan by forming high molecular weight, brown-coloured polymers (melanoidins) on the skin through the conversion of erythrulose with the free primary or secondary amino groups of keratin (Maillard reaction) in the upper layers of the epidermis;
Moisturiser: Retaining water molecules within the epidermis to keep the skin hydrated and supple.
Applications
Facial and Body Care (serums/lotions/foams/self-tanning sprays, sun creams, day creams, body lotions);
Makeups (foundations, CC creams).
Method of Preservation
Store in a dry place, protected from sunlight, heat and humidity, and at a temperature between 2 and 8°C.
Contraindications, Usage Precautions
Erythrulose is considered safe for cosmetic use according to the literature.
Find out more
Erythrulose is a type of ketonic sugar naturally found in red fruits. In self-tanning cosmetic products, it is typically combined with DHA, another self-tanning agent, to mitigate the drawbacks of DHA, namely uneven and streaky tanning with an orange hue, as well as intense dryness. Moreover, the colouring reaction of erythrulose with the skin is slow and gentle, allowing for a more natural, long-lasting, and even tan, without streaks. As a reducing sugar, erythrulose also helps to keep the skin hydrated by retaining moisture.
