EWG Safety Score
What Is Glycine?
Glycine is an amino acid that helps the body create proteins. Chemically, it is considered the simplest amino acid and is found in many peptides. The body produces its own glycine, but it also can be consumed as part of a person’s diet.
Applied topically, glycine (as with all amino acids) is a skin replenishing and hydrating ingredient, meaning it helps skin retain moisture for a more youthful look and feel.
Benefits for Your Skin
Clinical Evidence & References
How widely it's used
Regulatory information
Standardised cosmetic-ingredient identifiers used by regulators.
Show identifiers
- INCI Name
- GLYCINE
- INN Name
- glycine
- EC Number
- 200-272-2
- Pharmacopoeia Name
- glycinum
- Function
- Antistatic, Buffering, Hair Conditioning, Skin Conditioning
From the Clinic
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These appear on ingredients lists under different names but are the same substance. Glycine is the common form.
Related Ingredients
Hydroxyproline
A nonessential amino acid Critical component of collagen
Glycerine
Is a skin-restoring ingredient, meaning it is found naturally in skin Functions as a humectant, helping skin retain moisture
Glycerol
Is a skin-restoring ingredient, meaning it is found naturally in skin Functions as a humectant, helping skin retain moisture
Glyceryl Acrylate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer
A synthetic polymer that helps formulations maintain texture whilst supporting skin hydration
Glycine Soja Seed Water
A plant-derived humectant that draws moisture into the skin
Glycogen
A complex sugar known as a polysaccharide | Offers water-binding properties so is a humectant
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