Capsaicin
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: 404-86-4, Zostrix, CAPSAICINE, Qutenza, Trans-Capsaicin, Styptysat, Axsain, Isodecenoic acid vanillylamide, Ausanil
Synthetic
Skin Conditioner
Clean
N-[(4-Hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)methyl]-8-methyl-6-nonenamide
Solubility Insoluble in cold water
Formula
C18H27NO3
Mol. Weight
305.40
CAS #
404-86-4
Form
Powder
State
Dark red solid with a volatile pungent odor; [HSDB] Formulated as dry powder, liquid, and liquid spray; [Reference #1] White crystalline solid; [Sigma-Aldrich MSDS]
Functions
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Locks in moisture
Traditional Use
The pungent alkaloid compound isolated from chili peppers, traditionally used in Asian and Latin American medicine for pain relief and warming treatments. Modern cosmetics use it for stimulating circulation and creating warming sensations in topical products.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types, gentle
Best For
Circulation
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Caution
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed2 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR