DSM’s Hyaluronic Acid Booster Skips the Injections

Dermal filler-like effects, minus the needle? DSM’s SYN-HYCAN (INCI: Tetradecyl Aminobut­yroylvalylaminobutyric Urea Trifluor­oacetate) might be the answer. Marketed as a topical alternative to hyaluronic acid injections, the ingredient is meant to visibly remove skin sagging by boosting collagen formation and hyaluronan content.

Skin is reportedly more smooth, moisturized and supple after use of the synthetic tripeptide, which is said to help skin become fuller and firmer across multiple facial areas in as few as three weeks.

The preservative-free ingredient combines two actions to “remodel” the face: stimulation of glycosam­inoglycan biosynthesis in order to boost synthesis of hyaluronic acid to volumize, and increased expression of the decorin and lumican proteoglycans to improve collagen fiber quality.

Formulators are advised to use SYN-HYCAN at 2.5% for face, eye and neck applications, including firming skin care, regenerative night care, skin moisturizers and anti-aging formulations. It is available as a glycerin-based aqueous solution.