Skip to content

PYRIDOXINE HYDROXYBENZOATE

80

Safety score · 0–100

Good

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

About

A stabilized ester of vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) with hydroxybenzoic acid — essentially a gentler, more storage-stable form of vitamin B6 for skin. Acts as an antioxidant and conditioning agent that supports skin metabolism without the instability issues of plain pyridoxine.

Pyridoxine hydrochloride is the most common form of vitamin B6 in skin care but is unstable and can degrade rapidly in formulation when exposed to light or oxygen. Pyridoxine hydroxybenzoate is an ester formed between the phenolic hydroxyl group of pyridoxine and a hydroxybenzoic acid (likely p-hydroxybenzoic acid = salicylic acid analogue). This esterification protects the vitamin B6 from oxidation and light degradation, extending shelf life. Once applied to skin, the ester slowly hydrolyzes to release active pyridoxine. Pyridoxine serves as a cofactor for over 100 enzymes involved in amino acid metabolism, including those involved in collagen synthesis (lysyl hydroxylase) and skin barrier formation. It also has antioxidant properties independent of its enzymatic cofactor functions.

Function

ANTIOXIDANT, SKIN CONDITIONING

Skin benefits

  • Vitamin B6 supports amino acid and protein metabolism in skin
  • Cofactor for collagen synthesis enzymes
  • Antioxidant activity protects skin from oxidative damage
  • Supports skin barrier function and repair
  • More photostable than standard pyridoxine

Known concerns

  • Hydroxybenzoic acid moiety may cause salicylate sensitivity in aspirin-allergic individuals
  • Possible irritation on broken or sensitive skin
  • Generally well-tolerated but can rarely cause B6-related photosensitivity
  • No major safety concerns at cosmetic concentrations

References

EU

EU CosIng database

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

Check your shelf

Find PYRIDOXINE HYDROXYBENZOATE in your products.

Scan any cosmetic product with LuxSense to see if it contains PYRIDOXINE HYDROXYBENZOATE and get a full ingredient breakdown with safety scores.

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.