Kinetin

Kinetin is a type of cytokinin, or plant hormone, that helps regulate cell division and other important functions within the plant. Kinetin can be found naturally in certain plant byproducts, such as coconut water.

Studies have found that kinetin is useful for skin, too. For example, it has antioxidant protective abilities, fighting off oxidative stress. Research also suggests that topical kinetin can inhibit cell senescence – the process in which certain inflamed, zombie-like cells "tell" surrounding healthy cells to stop dividing, which is one of the core biomarkers of skin ageing. Additional studies have shown that kinetin may improve the skin barrier function, thus improving skin hydration and reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL).

Perhaps most interesting is recent research indicating that certain kinetin derivatives actually have photoprotective abilities against both UVA and UVB rays, meaning they might become important additives in topical preparation designed to defend skin against sun damage. It's an exciting area of research we'll continue to follow as more information becomes available.

Note: Research has shown that kinetin applied to skin does not interact with or otherwise influence human hormones.