Antioxidant

Carnitine

Reviewed by Kate · Last updated 18 Aug 2026

Naturally occurring amino acid

What Is Carnitine?

Naturally occurring amino acid. Research into how this amino acid affects skin when applied topically is limited, though a few studies indicate it can be an antioxidant.

Clinical Evidence & References

Published Research

How widely it's used

0.2%
of skincare products contain this ingredient — placing it in the top 50% of most-used ingredients.
Most common in: Treatments Cleansers Moisturisers

Regulatory information

Standardised cosmetic-ingredient identifiers used by regulators.

Show identifiers
INCI Name
CARNITINE
INN Name
carnitine
EC Number
208-768-0
Function
Antistatic, Cleansing, Foam Boosting, Hair Conditioning, Skin Conditioning, Surfactant, Viscosity Controlling

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