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Catalog Number | CI-OT-0062 |
Product Name | Hydroxyethylpiperazine Ethane Sulfonic Acid |
CAS | 7365-45-9 |
Structure | |
Synonyms | 4-(2-Hydroxyethyl)piperazin-1-ylethanesulphonic acid;HEPES |
IUPAC Name | 2-[4-(2-hydroxyethyl)piperazin-1-yl]ethanesulfonic acid |
Molecular Weight | 238.31 g/mol |
Molecular Formula | C8H18N2O4S |
InChI | InChI=1S/C8H18N2O4S/c11-7-5-9-1-3-10(4-2-9)6-8-15(12,13)14/h11H,1-8H2,(H,12,13,14) |
InChI Key | JKMHFZQWWAIEOD-UHFFFAOYSA-N |
Boiling Point | 408 °C |
Melting Point | 234-238 °C |
Purity | 95% |
Density | 1.07 g/mL |
Appearance | Solid |
Highest Usage In Residency Products | 0.1 |
Isomeric SMILES | C1CN(CCN1CCO)CCS(=O)(=O)O |
Hydroxyethylpiperazine Ethane Sulfonic Acid, commonly known as HEPES, serves as an effective exfoliating agent due to its structural similarity to alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). Although not a traditional hydroxy acid, it softens keratin and facilitates the removal of dead skin cells by breaking down the bonds between keratinocytes. This process helps to enhance the skin's texture, achieve a more unified tone, and provide a noticeable whitening effect by gently removing melanin-containing cells. Additionally, HEPES plays a key role as a buffering agent, maintaining the formula's pH balance and increasing the efficacy of other active ingredients by improving their adsorption. Its stabilizing properties also safeguard active ingredients and the skin from UV and visible light exposure by absorbing and reflecting harmful radiation. With its excellent solubility, heat resistance, and stability against oxidative reactions, alongside its minimal penetration through the epidermis, HEPES is well-suited for use in exfoliating, sun-care, and skin-lightening products.
What is Hydroxyethylpiperazine Ethane Sulfonic Acid and what does it do?
Hydroxyethylpiperazine Ethane Sulfonic Acid, also known as HEPES, is an organosulfur acid. It has a structure and function similar to alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), which enables it to act as an exfoliating agent, breaking bonds between keratinocytes and helping to remove old, dull, and dead cells from the skin surface. This action can lead to a smoother and lighter skin texture, while also enhancing the absorption of other active ingredients in skincare formulations.
How does HEPES affect skin tone and texture?
HEPES gently removes pigmented cells, including those containing melanin, from the skin's epidermal layer. This action can result in a significant skin-whitening effect, smoothing the surface, softening the skin texture, and unifying the overall tone. By promoting the removal of dead skin cells, it contributes to a more even and refined appearance.
Can HEPES be used in combination with other skincare ingredients?
Yes, HEPES not only acts as an exfoliating agent but also serves as a buffering agent. This means it helps maintain a stable pH level in formulations, which can enhance the stability and effectiveness of other active ingredients. It offers protective benefits by stabilizing ingredients and partially reflecting harmful UV and visible light, thus protecting both the active ingredients and the skin.
Is Hydroxyethylpiperazine Ethane Sulfonic Acid safe for use on all skin types?
HEPES is generally considered safe for use on various skin types due to its mild and specific exfoliating action. It has good membrane impermeability, meaning it does not penetrate deeply into the skin, limiting its action to the surface layers. However, as with any skincare product, it is advisable to conduct a patch test before widespread use, especially for individuals with sensitive skin.
In what types of skincare products can HEPES be found?
Due to its properties, HEPES is a suitable ingredient for exfoliating, sun-care, and skin-lightening formulations. It is water-soluble, heat-resistant, and stable against oxidation-reduction reactions and UV exposure, making it an excellent addition to products that aim to brighten the skin, protect against environmental stressors, and enhance skin texture.