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AMINOPROPYL ZINC POLYSILSESQUIOXANE ASCORBATE

75

Safety score · 0–100

Fine

Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.

About

A clever hybrid material combining zinc and vitamin C (ascorbic acid) attached to a silica cage. This ingredient delivers the skin-brightening and collagen-boosting power of vitamin C while the zinc provides antimicrobial benefits and the silicon scaffold ensures stable delivery.

This is a coordination compound where zinc ascorbate is chemically grafted onto an aminopropyl-modified polysilsesquioxane (a cage-like silica matrix, (SiO₁.₅)ₙ). The aminopropyl group (-Si-(CH₂)₃-NH₂) provides a site for binding zinc ions, which are chelated by both the amino group and ascorbate. The polysilsesquioxane cage provides hydrolytic stability and controlled release properties. The silsesquioxane structure is not absorbed intact — it acts as a delivery vehicle, slowly releasing bioavailable zinc ascorbate at the skin surface. Zinc itself is antimicrobial (zinc lactate/salts of zinc inhibit C. acnes), and ascorbic acid is a cofactor for collagen synthesis (prolyl hydroxylase cofactor) and a potent antioxidant.

Function

ANTIMICROBIAL, ANTIOXIDANT, SKIN CONDITIONING - OCCLUSIVE

Skin benefits

  • Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) promotes collagen synthesis and brightens skin
  • Zinc ions provide antimicrobial benefits against acne bacteria
  • Silica cage enables controlled, stable vitamin C delivery
  • Antioxidant protection from both vitamin C and zinc
  • Occlusive properties help skin retain moisture

Known concerns

  • Silica particles — inhalation risk in powder formulations (not relevant for rinse-off or emulsions)
  • Amino-functional silanes may be skin sensitizers at high concentrations (though grafted to matrix this risk is low)
  • Zinc ascorbate may cause mild irritation on broken skin
  • Limited long-term topical safety data for this specific hybrid structure

References

EU

EU CosIng database

European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.

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This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve — always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.