AlfaLip

AlfaLip, alpha-lipoic acid ready to dose

AlfaLip is a liquid antioxidant active made in France. It dissolves alpha-lipoic acid in propylene glycol together with DMAE, giving the INCI Propylene Glycol, Alpha-Lipoic Acid, N,N-Dimethylethanolamine. The color runs from pale yellow to bright orange and the odor is characteristic. One feature sets it apart: it is soluble in both water and oil, so it fits almost any base. It is sold from a 0.33 oz (10 mL) trial pack.

Why this pairing

Alpha-lipoic acid is one of the most versatile antioxidants in cosmetics because it works in watery and fatty environments alike. It helps protect skin and the product itself against oxidative stress from pollution, sun and air. DMAE in the same solution adds a toning, firmer looking story, so the pair suits age care for skin that looks tired, dull or less firm.

Use levels

The supplier gives 2 to 3% for daily care and 4 to 8% for professional-strength products, such as salon serums.

Compatibility you need to plan for

Two warnings come with this active: do not combine AlfaLip with Sepitonic M3, and do not combine it with Zn-PCA. That matters most in products for oily or shiny skin, where zinc salts are common, so choose another oil-control route there. The characteristic odor also calls for a fragrance check. Add AlfaLip to the water or the oil phase during cool-down and stir until uniform.

Where it belongs in a range

Age care serums, eye contour emulsions and day creams are the main formats, together with protective care for city skin. For a broader antioxidant system, combine it with ferulic acid and the vitamin E complex, or add Riboxyl for an energizing note. You will find more antioxidants in our cosmetic actives section.