Arginine(400 Ppm)
Arginine is a semi-essential amino acid (adults can synthesize it, but infants cannot) and one of the primary building blocks of hair keratin and skin collagen. It is classified as a natural moisturizing factor and carries a positive charge (cationic), making it substantive to skin and hair surfaces, which are more negatively charged. Its positive charge also allows it to form complexes with AHAs, creating a time-release AHA effect and reducing associated irritation. CosIng lists its functions as antistatic, hair conditioning, masking, and skin conditioning.
Arginine acts as a skin hydrator and film former due to its natural moisturizing factor status and positive charge. It may help speed up wound healing. When combined with AHAs, it can moderate their irritation potential through a time-release complexing mechanism.
