
N-Acetyl Glucosamine (NAG) is a highly functional amino sugar naturally found in the body and regarded as one of skincare’s most underrated multi-benefit active ingredients. It is a naturally occurring derivative of glucose and a precursor involved in the biosynthesis of hyaluronic acid, one of the skin’s most important moisture-retaining compounds.
In cosmetic formulation, NAG is widely respected for its impressive ability to support skin hydration, barrier repair, brightening, gentle exfoliation, and anti-aging performance, all without the harshness often associated with stronger actives. Unlike aggressive resurfacing ingredients that can irritate compromised skin, NAG works in a skin-supportive manner, helping improve overall skin quality gradually and sustainably.
One of the reasons formulators love NAG is its versatility. It is especially valuable in formulations targeting hyperpigmentation, post-inflammatory marks, dullness, dehydration, rough texture, barrier damage, acne-prone skin, and early signs of aging.
NAG works through several intelligent mechanisms:
A major advantage of NAG is that it delivers meaningful skin improvement without overwhelming sensitive skin. It is often considered an excellent active for individuals who want visible brightening and texture improvement but struggle with stronger acids or more aggressive depigmenting ingredients.
NAG is also increasingly used in advanced formulations for melasma support, post-acne recovery, and professional brightening systems because of its synergy with other actives. When formulated correctly, it can significantly improve skin smoothness, radiance, hydration, and tone uniformity.
INCI Name:
N-Acetyl Glucosamine
CAS Number:
7512-17-6
Appearance:
White to off-white crystalline powder
Country of Origin:
Sourced from China
Formation:
NAG is produced through acetylation of glucosamine and exists as a stable amino monosaccharide derivative. Commercial cosmetic-grade NAG is typically manufactured via controlled biotechnological or synthetic processing for high purity and consistency.
Specification:
Grade:
Cosmetic Grade / Pharmaceutical Grade
pH Stability:
Best stability within pH 4.0 – 7.0
Performs optimally in mildly acidic to neutral formulations.
Recommended Usage Percentage: 1% – 5%
Solubility:
Water-soluble
Dissolves best in water phase with adequate mixing. Gentle warming may improve dissolution speed.
Compatibility:
Highly compatible with many advanced skincare actives, including:
Works particularly well in brightening and barrier-repair systems.
Mixing Phase & Temperature Range:
Add to water phase
Recommended temperature: Room temperature to 50°C
Avoid prolonged exposure to excessive heat to preserve optimal performance.
Application:
Suitable for a wide range of skincare formulations, including:
Performance:
NAG is highly valued because it delivers multiple visible skin benefits from a single active ingredient.
Key performance benefits include:
Consistent use often results in skin that feels smoother, looks brighter, and appears visibly healthier.
Storage:
Store in a cool, dry place away from heat, direct sunlight, and moisture.
Keep container tightly sealed after use.
Shelf Life:
24 months when properly stored in original sealed packaging.
Precaution:
For external formulation use only.
Packaging:
All our products are packaged in either water-proof airtight pouches, bottles or containers and sealed to avoid spillage then carefully placed in either our branded nylons or boxes for safe and swift delivery.
DISCLAIMER:
All ROCC BEAUTY's Products should be used externally and according to instructions unless stated otherwise on the information sheet. Statements regarding dietary supplements of this material have not been evaluated by the FDA and NAFDAC and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition. All ROCC BEAUTY Raw Materials are 100% Unadulterated, undiluted & Non-GMO, produced under Globally Recognized Certifications, and processed in FDA-Registered, GMP-Certified Facilities at our Supplier's end, then imported and carefully package in our Nigeria facility. ROCC BEAUTY is not responsible for how a material reacts on and in you. We recommend a patch test, very little oral usage or small batch formulation first to test each material's performance, compatibility, reactions/allergies/sensitivity status and safety prior to committing to full usage or larger batch formulation respectively. Keep all materials out of reach of children and store according to storage instructions given. Individual Results Vary. ROCC BEAUTY is not responsible for any reaction/s from a misuse or undisclosed medical sensitivity. We recommend you consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new wellness/health routine.
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COMPLIANCE & LEGAL ACTIVITIES:
ROCC BEAUTY & ROCCBEAUTY is a Trademarked Company Name in Nigeria Registered with The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) (RC 8524739) as ROCC BEAUTY LIMITED & with The Secretary Of State, New Mexico, United States as ROCC BEAUTY LLC (). A Licensed Exporter with the NEPC Nigeria Approved to Supply & Export Quality Local & Cosmetic Raw Materials, Beauty, Wellness & Personal Care Products, And Formulation Tools & Equipment.
Papers We Export Our Products With For Swift Custom Clearance & Ministry Of Health Analysis (esp in GCC Countries) Includes: Certificate Of Analysis (CoA), MSDS, TDS, Product's Composition Sheet, Product's Receipt, COO Statement, Declaration Of No Animal Testing, Cruelty-free Statement, And Product Safety & Allergen Statement, while CFS Statement for Seller. PS: If there's any extra paper/s we're to provide, let us know. Brands utilizing our OEM & ODM services are responsible for their own final product registration and labeling compliance in their specific jurisdictions (unless package deals says otherwise).
OTHER ACTIVITIES:
We also offer Advanced Products Formulation Training.