Ingredient Directory
Low ConcernVegan

Ergothioneine

L-Ergothioneine / 2-Thio-L-histidine betaine

Safety Notes

Unique thiol antioxidant; produced by certain mushrooms and bacteria; not synthesised by humans (diet-derived); high affinity for skin, transporter (ETT) expressed in skin; clinical evidence for UV damage protection and skin brightening accumulating; very low sensitization risk; premium ingredient

Function & Common Use

Function

Active (antioxidant)

Category

Active Ingredient

Common In

Serums antioxidant products premium moisturisers

Origin

Biotechnological (fungal fermentation)

Concentration Limits

India (CDSCO)

No limit

EU Cosmetics Reg.

No limit

US FDA (21 CFR)

No specific 21 CFR cosmetic limit identified in source checked

Korea (MFDS)

No specific MFDS limit identified in source checked; verify if ingredient is used in a Korean functional cosmetic category

Pregnancy: No specific restriction identified in source checked; standard cosmetic use

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ergothioneine safe to use in skincare?

Ergothioneine has a Low concern rating from The Clean Sheet. Unique thiol antioxidant; produced by certain mushrooms and bacteria; not synthesised by humans (diet-derived); high affinity for skin, transporter (ETT) expressed in skin; clinical evidence for UV damage protection and skin brightening accumulating; very low sensitization risk; premium ingredient

Is Ergothioneine allowed in India?

Ergothioneine is currently classified as "Permitted" under Indian cosmetics regulations. No concentration limit is specified for India.

What is Ergothioneine used for in cosmetics?

Ergothioneine functions as: Active (antioxidant). It is commonly found in: Serums antioxidant products premium moisturisers.

TCS Assessment
Low Concern
Data Confidence
High
Based on peer-reviewed safety data, regulatory status, and expert review by The Clean Sheet panel.

Regulatory Status

India (CDSCO)
Permitted
EU
Permitted
US FDA
Permitted
Korea (MFDS)
Permitted
Australia (TGA)
Cosmetic ingredient; standard TGA cosmetic framework applies; no therapeutic goods listing required unless therapeutic claims are made
Canada (NHPID)
Not specifically listed as restricted cosmetic ingredient in NHPID source checked; standard Health Canada cosmetic notification applies

Identifiers

CAS497-30-3
EC207-843-5

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