Tryptophan

AKA: L-tryptophan, 73-22-3, L-Tryptophane, Tryptophane, (S)-Tryptophan, Trofan, Tryptacin, (2S)-2-amino-3-(1H-indol-3-yl)propanoic acid, Ardeytropin
Synthetic
Skin Conditioner
Hair Care
Clean
OriginSynthesized from indole and serine precursors through fermentation or chemical synthesis methods. Produced industrially via bacterial fermentation using genetically modified microorganisms or catalytic chemical routes.
2-Amino-3-indol-3-ylpropanoic acid
Solubility 1 to 5 mg/mL at 68 °F (NTP, 1992)
Formula
C11H12N2O2
Mol. Weight
204.22
CAS #
54-12-6, 73-22-3
Form
Powder
State
L-tryptophan is a white powder with a flat taste. An essential amino acid; occurs in isomeric forms. (NTP, 1992)
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Functions
Antistatic
Hair Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Anti-Aging
Antioxidant
Anti-Inflammatory
Reduces flyaways
Softens and detangles hair
Provides scent
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.
EWG
1
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
Concentration Guide
Leave-onNot reported
Rinse-off0.0001%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · report published 2013
Regulatory Status
USA✔ permitted
EU⚠ restricted
JAPAN⚠ restricted
CANADA⚠ restricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR