Tryptophan
What Tryptophan is & what it does
Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that the body uses as a building block for proteins. In skincare and sunscreen formulas it acts as a skin-conditioning agent and humectant, helping to support the skin's surface and moisture. As one of the amino acids found in the skin's natural composition, it is valued for its compatibility with the skin barrier.
What does Tryptophan do in skincare?
Tryptophan is an essential amino acid used in skincare as a skin-conditioning agent and humectant. It helps support the skin's surface and moisture and is compatible with the skin's natural amino acid composition. It is generally used as a supporting ingredient rather than a strong active.
Is Tryptophan safe?
Tryptophan is a naturally occurring amino acid that is widely used in cosmetics and generally considered well tolerated on the skin. As with any ingredient, individual sensitivities can occur, so patch testing is sensible for reactive skin. It is valued for its compatibility with the skin barrier.
Is Tryptophan vegan?
Tryptophan used in cosmetics is commonly produced through fermentation, which can make it suitable for vegan formulas. Because amino acids can be sourced in different ways, confirming vegan status depends on the specific supplier and the brand's policy.
Sunscreens with Tryptophan
We rate 6 sunscreens that contain it:
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Sungboon Editor Green Tomato Pore Blurring Suncream
92/100
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Azio Beauty Age Defy Tinted SPF Perfector
87/100
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Filorga Laboratories UV-Defence Spf 50 Anti-aging Anti-Brown Spot Sun Care Cream
80/100
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JM Solution Baby Fresh Sun Cream 40 PA+++
78/100
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Frudia Avocado Greenery Relief Sun Cream
77/100
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Atomy Absolute Essence Sun UV Protector SPF 50+pa++++
71/100