Nordihydroguaiaretic Acid
What Nordihydroguaiaretic Acid is & what it does
Nordihydroguaiaretic Acid, also called NDGA, is a plant-derived lignan originally isolated from the creosote bush. In cosmetic formulas it is used mainly as an antioxidant that helps protect oils and other ingredients from oxidation. A notable point is that its use is limited and regulated in some regions, so it usually appears only at low levels as a formula stabilizer rather than as an active.
Is Nordihydroguaiaretic Acid safe in skincare?
Nordihydroguaiaretic Acid, or NDGA, is used at low levels in cosmetics mainly to protect formulas from oxidation, and at those levels it is generally considered acceptable. Its use is limited and regulated in some regions, so it usually appears only in small amounts as a stabilizer. As with any ingredient, follow the product's usage directions.
What does Nordihydroguaiaretic Acid do in skincare?
In cosmetic formulas Nordihydroguaiaretic Acid works mainly as an antioxidant that helps keep oils and other ingredients from oxidizing and going off. It is typically a formula stabilizer rather than an active treatment. This helps the product stay fresh during its shelf life.
Is Nordihydroguaiaretic Acid natural or synthetic?
Nordihydroguaiaretic Acid is a plant-derived lignan originally isolated from the creosote bush, though cosmetic-grade material may also be produced synthetically. In either case it is the same defined compound used at low levels. Because it is not animal-derived, it is typically suitable for vegan formulas.
Sunscreens with Nordihydroguaiaretic Acid
We rate 24 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:
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Hava Zingboim Purify & Protect Mineral SPF 50
95/100
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Bionike Defence Sun Mattifying Face Cream
94/100
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Bionike AKNET ACTEEN SUN Cream-gel SPF 50+
87/100
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Bionike Defence Sun Crema Viso Mat SPF 50+ Bionike
87/100
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Bionike Aknet Acteen Sun - Cream-Gel 50+
86/100
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Dr Dennis Gross Dark Spot Sun Defense Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF50
83/100
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Clinique City Block Sheer Oil-free Daily Face Protector Broad Spectrum SPF 25 Primer
82/100
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Dr Dennis Gross Instant Radiance Sun Defense Sunscreen Broad Spectrum Spf 40
82/100
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Dermadoctor DD Cream Dermatologically Defining BB Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 30
82/100
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Clinique Superdefense Age Defense Eye Cream Broad Spectrum Spf 20
80/100