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Nuria Seguí/Stocksy United

Learning about the products we put on our bodies has become as important as what we put into our bodies.

Skin is our largest organ, and its role is to protect against bacteria, chemicals, fungi, and the environment. In a way, our skin acts as our shell, and since the beginning of time, humankind has valued the aesthetics of our skin as much as its function.

Adenosine, or adenosine triphosphate (ATP), occurs naturally in the body. ATP is made of adenosine attached to ribose sugar molecules and is known as the energy molecule. It’s one of four energy molecules that make up DNA and RNA.

Adenosine is important in the biochemical process. Until recently, it has only been used for medical purposes. It’s relatively new in the skin care field and promises a more youthful complexion.

Read on to learn more about adenosine and its effect on skin care and cosmetics.

Adenosine’s function is to provide energy to living cells. In skin care products, it stimulates collagen, promoting tissue repair along with improved firming and elasticity.

Skin has three layers:

  • The epidermis: This is the most superficial layer. It acts as a protector against external factors.
  • The dermis: This is the second layer. It’s directly bonded to the epidermis, housing blood vessels, nerve fibers, and receptors. The dermis is the foundation of skin strength and elasticity due to collagen and elastin.
  • The subcutis: This is the third and deepest layer. It acts as an energy reserve and cushion.

Skin aging is a complex biological process. It’s affected by genetics and the following:

  • the quality and quantity of collagen and elastin
  • lifestyle factors, such as sun exposure, pollution, sleeping positions, diet, and general health

Adenosine used in skin care products stimulates collagen at the dermis level. When applied topically, it activates properties improving the structure of the skin.

Adenosine by itself doesn’t always permeate the skin to be of benefit. But there are ongoing studies to determine what other ingredients are needed to promote skin absorption.

When it does permeate the skin, research has found adenosine to be effective. A 2018 study found significant improvement to the appearance of wrinkles and overall moisture content when middle-aged women added adenosine to their skin care routine.

Additionally, adenosine has been shown to improve wound healing in mice due to its ability to increase vascular and cellular response in injured tissue.

According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), adenosine isn’t toxic to humans or the environment. It has a rating of 1 on the EWG’s Skin Deep ranking system.

In a 2018 study, participants applied cream containing adenosine twice a day for 8 weeks. No adverse effects were found.

Adenosine has also been praised for its healing properties. A 2019 study found adenosine beneficial for tissue damage and significantly increased the rate of wound healing.

It’s worth noting, though, that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t regulate cosmeceuticals, and there hasn’t been much research on adenosine performed on humans. Still, risk profiles have indicated that it’s safe for use.

Whether you have oily, dry, sensitive or combination skin, adenosine is beneficial.

According to available research, it has no adverse effects and doesn’t irritate the skin unless the individual has an allergy to adenosine.

Remember that when trying any skin care product, it’s important to test out the product on a small area of the skin. If you don’t notice any signs of an allergic reaction, such as itching or redness, then you’re likely safe to apply it more widely.

While adenosine has been deemed safe with no adverse effects it’s essential to follow the instructions and guidelines on a product’s label.

Most individuals should be able to apply products with adenosine daily.

Adenosine occurs naturally in the body and is referred to as the energy molecule.

Its use in skin care products is relatively new. Studies have shown significant improvements in the restoration, moisture, and decrease of wrinkles due to its collagen-enhancing effects.

Adenosine is thought to be safe for daily use. However, it’s important to always follow your skin care product’s guidelines for use. Remember that the FDA doesn’t regulate cosmeceuticals.

Overall, adenosine appears to be safe and effective and may contribute to a healthy glow.