INCI page

CARNITINE

Last update on Jan 21, 2026

Carnitine, also known as L-Carnitine, is a naturally occurring quaternary ammonium compound that plays a role in fatty acid metabolism. In cosmetics, it functions as a skin and hair conditioning agent, humectant, and antistatic component. It helps improve skin moisture, supports lipid barrier function, and reduces static in hair products. This water-soluble ingredient is incorporated in moisturizers, serums, shampoos, conditioners, scalp treatments, and anti-aging formulations. It is used for its potential to enhance energy metabolism in skin cells and provide mild hydrating benefits.

CAS Number: 541-15-1Chem/IUPAC Name: 1-Propanaminium, 3-carboxy-2-hydroxy-N,N,N-trimethyl-, inner salt (R)-EINECS/ELINCS No: 208-768-0COSING REF No: 74832

Products with CARNITINE

See all products
With samples available

capauxein™ g2 biofunctional

by Ashland

INCI: HYDROLYZED CORN PROTEIN | ADENOSINE | MAGNESIUM ASCORBYL PHOSPHATE | CARNITINE | GLYCERIN | AQUA
  • Sustainable option
See the product

SLIM EC3®

by Inabata

INCI: CAMELLIA OLEIFERA SEED OIL /HYDROGENATED CAMELLIA OLEIFERA SEED OIL ESTERS | CARNITINE | ESCULIN | GLYCERYL CAPRYLATE/CAPRATE | GLYCERIN
  • Sustainable option
See the product

What is CARNITINE used for?

  • Skin conditioning: Maintains skin in good condition and supports hydration. Frequently used in creams, serums, and lotions for improved softness and barrier support.
  • Hair conditioning: Conditions hair, reduces static, and improves manageability. Common in shampoos, conditioners, and scalp activators for smoother, healthier-looking hair.
  • Antistatic / Humectant: Helps control static electricity and attracts moisture. Ideal for hair care products and formulations targeting dry or static-prone skin/hair.

Origin

Carnitine is naturally produced in the human body from lysine and methionine or obtained from dietary sources like meat. For cosmetic use, it is typically manufactured synthetically or via fermentation processes to yield high-purity L-Carnitine. Commercial grades are often derived from renewable precursors but are processed industrially for consistency and stability in formulations.

What does CARNITINE do in a formulation?

ANTISTATIC|
MOISTURISING|
HUMECTANT|
HAIR CONDITIONING|
SKIN CONDITIONING|
HAIR FIXING

Safety Profile

Carnitine is considered safe for cosmetic use, with a low hazard rating from EWG (typically 1) and no significant concerns for irritation, sensitization, or toxicity at typical concentrations (0.1-5%). It is well-tolerated across skin types, including sensitive, with minimal absorption and no notable comedogenicity. Rare sensitivities may occur; patch testing is advised. The EU COSING database approves it for skin conditioning, hair conditioning, antistatic, cleansing, foam boosting, surfactant, and viscosity controlling functions in rinse-off and leave-on products.

CARNITINE alternatives

CARNITINE technical profile

PropertyValues
Boiling PointDecomposes (>200°C)
Melting Point197-212°C
pHNeutral
SolubilityHighly soluble in water
ViscosityLow