Serine

A non-essential amino acid, meaning that our body can produce it. It is the largest constituent of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor and is used in skincare as a humectant moisturizing ingredient.
Moisturizing
Other functions
Origin
Serine

Overview

Serine is a non-essential amino acid, meaning that our body can produce it. It is the largest constituent of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor, a mixture of amino acids that maintain the water balance in the topmost layer of the skin.

It is added to skincare as a humectant moisturizing ingredient that can help to retain water to the skin’s surface. Serine is water-soluble and so is easily washed away from the skin’s surface. It needs to be re-applied in order for the skin to receive its full moisturizing benefits.

It is added, along with other amino acids, to hair care products as an antistatic agent.

Science

1
Oshimura, E., & Sakamoto, K. (2017). Amino Acids, Peptides, and Proteins. Cosmetic Science and Technology, 285–303.