The Basics On Phytic Acid
What is Phytic Acid?
Component of plants that has antioxidant properties.
What are other names for Phytic Acid?
FYTIC ACID, HEXAKIS(DIHYDROGEN PHOSPHATE) MYO-INOSITOL, INOSITOL HEXAPHOSPHATE, MYO-INOSITOL, HEXAKIS(DIHYDROGEN PHOSPHATE), MYOINOSITOL, HEXAKIS(DIHYDROGEN PHOSPHATE), and PHYTIC ACID
What is Phytic Acid used for?
Phytic acid is a naturally occurring Alpha-Hydroxy Acid whose range of application extends from skin moisturizing, wrinkle reduction to deep chemical peeling of the skin1. They act by inducing exfoliation in our skin and accelerating the natural skin cell rejuvenation cycle. AHAs improve skin texture and reduce the signs of aging by promoting cell shedding in the outer layers of the epidermis and by restoring hydration. The mechanism of action is not completely understood. One hypothesis suggests that AHAs reduce the calcium ion concentration in the epidermis and, through chelation, remove the ions from the cell adhesions, which are thereby disrupted, resulting in desquamation2. The peeling action of Phytic acid has been described as similar in effect to the more popular Glycolic acid but does not need neutralization after application. It has shown to be a slow release agent, allows progressive and sequential actuation of its acid and is nonaggressive3 compared with Glycolic Acid. Phytic acid has been shown to be an effective chemical peel agent for the treatment of melasma and acne4. Phytic acid (2-4%) was used in combination with Glycolic acid, lactic acid, and Mandelic acid5. It was found that typical burning sensation seen with glycolic acid was not observed with Phytic Acid.
How Phytic Acid is classified
Antioxidants, Plant Extracts
Recommendations for using Phytic Acid during pregnancy and breastfeeding
Limited data suggests no known risk
Phytic Acid During Pregnancy
What we know about using Phytic Acid while pregnant or breastfeeding
Limited information available.
The developmental and reproductive toxicity studies summarized below are presented in Table 9.
General safety info about Phytic Acid from CIR
No report found.
Use this, not that!
Products where you might find Phytic Acid
Lancer Skincare Caviar Lime Acid Peel with Glycolic Acid 10% + Phytic Acid 10% + Retinol; Peter Thomas Roth Peptide 21 Amino Acid Exfoliating Peel Pads; Kate Somerville – Liquid ExfoliKate Triple Acid Resurfacing Treatment; Kate Somerville Liquid ExfoliKate Triple Acid Resurfacing Treatment; LANCER Skincare – Caviar Lime Acid Peel; LANCER Skincare Caviar Lime Acid Peel; Dr. Brandt Skincare – Dark Spots No More Triple Acid Spot Minimizing Concentrate; Dr. Brandt Skincare Dark Spots No More Triple Acid Spot Minimizing Concentrate
List of References
General sources: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); 2006-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501922/
1. Babilas P, Knie U, Abels C. Cosmetic and dermatologic use of alpha hydroxy acids. J Dtsch Dermatol Ges. 2012;10(7):488-491. [PubMed] 2. Wang X. A theory for the mechanism of action of the alpha-hydroxy acids applied to the skin. Med Hypotheses. 1999;53(5):380-382. [PubMed] 3. Deprez P. Easy Phytic Solution: A New Alpha Hydroxy Acid Peel with Slow Release and without Neutralization. International Journal of Cosmetic Surgery and Aesthetic Dermatology. 2003;5(1):10. 4. Al-Mokadem O, Al-Asser A, Nassar A, Eman A. Easy phytic peel as a therapeutic agent in acne vulgaris and melasma. Egyptian Journal of Dermatology and Venerology. 2013;33(1):6. 5. Sarkar R, Garg V, Bansal S, Sethi S, Gupta C. Comparative Evaluation of Efficacy and Tolerability of Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Mandelic Acid, and Phytic Acid Combination Peels in Melasma. Dermatol Surg. 2016;42(3):384-391. [PubMed] 6. Phytic acid. EWG’s Skin Deep Cosmetic Database. https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredient/704845/PHYTIC_ACID/#.W7B-lWgzZhE. Published 2018. Accessed October 2018.
Disclaimer: This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider with any questions.
