Theophylline
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: 58-55-9, 1, 3-Dimethylxanthine, Elixophyllin, Theolair, Nuelin, Theophylline anhydrous, Elixophylline, Lanophyllin
Synthetic
Skin Conditioner
Not Clean
1H-Purine-2,6-dione, 3,7-dihydro-1,3-dimethyl-
Solubility 1 to 5 mg/mL at 70.7 °F (NTP, 1992)
Formula
C7H8N4O2
Mol. Weight
180.16
CAS #
58-55-9
Form
Powder
State
Theophylline is an odorless white crystalline powder. Odorless. Bitter taste. (NTP, 1992)
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.
Tonic
Brightens uneven skin tone
Locks in moisture
Traditional Use
Alkaloid derived from tea leaves and cacao, known in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for stimulating properties. Isolated and synthesized in the 19th century; used in modern cosmetics for its potential to improve circulation and reduce puffiness.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
Dullness
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