2-Mercaptonicotinoyl glycine

Treatment with 2-mercaptonicotinoyl glycine visibly fades immediate darkening, prevents new melanin production, and outcompetes numerous reference molecules against UV and high energy visible light-induced pigmentation. This gentle active suits most skin types best and typically arrives in light serums. It also layers easily into your daily routine.
Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2024Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2025
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Questions and answers
What does 2-mercaptonicotinoyl glycine do for the skin?
2-mercaptonicotinoyl glycine helps prevent skin darkening and tanning caused by UV rays and high energy visible light. It significantly reduces immediate tanning and inhibits new melanin production in the skin.
Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2025
How do you use 2-mercaptonicotinoyl glycine?
You can use 2-mercaptonicotinoyl glycine topically to help prevent skin darkening caused by UV light and high-energy visible light. Clinical studies often test it at 0.5% or 1% concentrations.
Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2024
Should you use 2-mercaptonicotinoyl glycine in the morning or at night?
Yes, you should use 2-mercaptonicotinoyl glycine in the morning, because it helps prevent UV and high energy visible light-induced skin darkening and pigmentation during the day.
Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2024
Can you use 2-mercaptonicotinoyl glycine every day?
Yes, you can use 2-mercaptonicotinoyl glycine every day as it helps prevent UV-induced skin darkening and inhibits new melanin production. Clinical studies show that regular topical application significantly decreases pigmentation caused by UV and high energy visible light.
Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2024
Does 2-mercaptonicotinoyl glycine cause purging or irritation?
There is no indication that 2-mercaptonicotinoyl glycine causes purging or irritation. The studies do not report any such side effects.
Which skin types is 2-mercaptonicotinoyl glycine best for?
2-mercaptonicotinoyl glycine helps prevent UV and visible light-induced pigmentation in skin phototypes III and IV, as well as melanin-rich skin. It is suitable for individuals looking to reduce sun-induced darkening and tanning.
Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2025
Research on 2-mercaptonicotinoyl glycine
Behind this ingredient guide
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Dr. Sof铆a Perea P茅rez, MD, MSc
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Specialist dermatologist, MBBS, MD, IFAAD
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Cosmetic chemist, SCS, IFSCC member
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Dermatology MD
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Elina Nazarenko, MD
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Dermatology and diagnostic consultant
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Victoria Derkova, MS
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Cosmetic chemist, cosmetic development technologist
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