Glucosamine
INCI: Glucosamine HCI
Reviewed by Daisy · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Glucosamine HCI, acetyl glucosamine
Multi-purpose antioxidant that plays a role in fading skin discolourations Also known to offer skin-calming properties
EWG Safety Score
What Is Glucosamine?
Glucosamine is a skin-identical, hydration-restoring modified glucose (type of sugar) with one hydroxyl (OH) group substituted with an amine, making it an aminomonosaccharide. It offers a multitude of benefits for skin, including moisture retention and refining rough texture, which helps promote a more even skin tone.
It has an excellent safety profile, as last assessed by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel in 2022.
For cosmetics, derivatives of glucosamine tend to be used more often than the original form due to greater stability, bioavailability, and ease of formulation. Examples include plant-derived glucosamine HCI (the hydrochloride form) or acetyl glucosamine, which pairs well with niacinamide for further improvement in the appearance of dark spots and uneven tone. Use levels of glucosamine and derivatives in cosmetics ranges from 0.5–5%.
Getting a bit more science-y, despite glucosamine’s smaller molecular size, it has poor transdermal absorption because of its polarity and hydrosolubility. As such, formulation techniques to improve delivery are essential for skin permeation of this amino acid sugar.
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Ginsenoside Rg6
A plant-derived compound that helps protect skin from oxidative stress
Ginsenoside Rh4
A plant-derived compound with antioxidant and skin-conditioning properties
Gleditsia Triacanthos Seed Extract
From the honey locust plant
Glucose Oxidase
Enzyme that helps stabilise formulas and prevent degradation
Glucosyl Resveratrol
A stabilised form of resveratrol that works as an antioxidant to help protect skin from environmental stress
Glucosylrutin
A flavonoid antioxidant that helps protect skin from oxidative stress and UV-induced damage
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