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Levulinic Acid

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Catalog Number CI-SC-1263
Product Name Levulinic Acid
CAS 123-76-2
Structure
Synonyms 4-Keto-n-valericacid
IUPAC Name 4-oxopentanoic acid
Molecular Weight 116.11 g/mol
Molecular Formula C5H8O3
InChI InChI=1S/C5H8O3/c1-4(6)2-3-5(7)8/h2-3H2,1H3,(H,7,8)
InChI Key JOOXCMJARBKPKM-UHFFFAOYSA-N
Boiling Point 245-246 °C
Melting Point 30-33 °C
Purity 95%
Density 1.13 g/mL
Solubility Soluble in water
Appearance Solid
Highest Usage In Residency Products 0.05
Isomeric SMILES CC(=O)CCC(=O)O
Product Overview

Levulinic acid, derived from sources such as rice, corn starch, or sugarcane bagasse, serves as a versatile component in various formulations. It functions as a penetration enhancer, emulsion stabilizer, and natural preservative, making it invaluable in improving product efficacy. By increasing the lipid fluidity of the skin's dermal barrier, it facilitates the absorption of other ingredients, thus enhancing the overall effectiveness of the formulation. Moreover, due to its antibacterial and bacteriostatic properties, levulinic acid and its salt form, sodium levulinate, are widely utilized as preservatives and skin conditioning agents.

Custom Q&A

What is Levulinic Acid, and what are its primary uses in cosmetic formulations?

Levulinic Acid is a natural compound derived from sources like rice, corn starch, or sugarcane bagasse. It primarily serves as a penetration enhancer, emulsion stabilizer, and natural preservative in cosmetic formulations. By increasing the lipid fluidity of the dermal barrier, it facilitates the absorption of other ingredients, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the cosmetic formula.

How does Levulinic Acid function as a penetration enhancer?

Levulinic Acid increases the lipid fluidity of the skin's dermal barrier, which assists in allowing other ingredients in a formulation to penetrate more effectively. This improved penetration can result in better efficacy of the active ingredients within a product.

In what way does Levulinic Acid contribute to the preservation of cosmetic products?

Due to its antibacterial and bacteriostatic properties, Levulinic Acid, along with its salt Sodium Levulinate, is utilized as a preservative in cosmetic products. It helps prevent the growth of bacteria, thereby extending the shelf life of the products and ensuring their safety for consumer use.

Why is Levulinic Acid considered an effective emulsion stabilizer?

Levulinic Acid acts as an emulsion stabilizer by helping maintain the consistency and stability of a formulation, ensuring that the ingredients remain evenly distributed throughout the product. This property is crucial for the performance and feel of emulsions in cosmetic products.

Can Levulinic Acid be used in formulations targeted at sensitive skin?

Yes, Levulinic Acid can be included in formulations designed for sensitive skin due to its natural origin and dual function as a penetration enhancer and preservative. However, like any ingredient, formulations should be thoroughly tested to ensure compatibility and safety for the intended skin type.

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