Phytic Acid

Also known as: Phytic Acid (Inositol Hexaphosphate)

INCI: Phytic Acid | Function: Exfoliant, Antioxidant, Chelating | Type: Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) precursor

What Is Phytic Acid?

Phytic Acid is a naturally occurring plant compound found in rice bran, seeds, and grains. In skincare, it acts as a gentle exfoliant, potent antioxidant, and metal chelator. Its chelating ability makes it effective at brightening by binding iron and copper that catalyze melanin production.

Key Skin Benefits

+ Gentle chemical exfoliation
+ Powerful antioxidant (iron chelation)
+ Inhibits melanin synthesis via copper chelation
+ Stabilizes formulations by binding metal ions
+ Improves skin radiance and clarity

Pros

+ Natural-derived, plant-based ingredient
+ Much gentler than glycolic or lactic acid
+ Multi-functional: exfoliates + brightens + chelates
+ Can be used daily without irritation

Cons

− Very mild exfoliation — less dramatic results
− Can chelate beneficial minerals in formula
− pH-dependent activity (works best at pH 3-4)
− Less clinical data than traditional AHAs

Specifications

Property	Value
Usage Areas	Face, Body
Product Type	Leave-On, Rinse-Off
Source	Plant (rice bran, seeds)
Natural Level	Natural-derived

Safety Ratings

Metric	Rating
Skin Sensitivity	1/5 (very low)
Comedogenic Rating	0/5
EWG Score	1/10

Regional Regulatory Limits

Region	Leave-on %	Rinse-off %	Status
EU (CosIng)	No limit	No limit	Allowed
US (CIR/FDA)	No limit	No limit	Allowed
Japan (MHLW)	No limit	No limit	Allowed
ASEAN	No limit	No limit	Allowed
China (NMPA)	No limit	No limit	Allowed

Typical Usage % by Product Type

Product Type	Typical %
Exfoliating toner	0.5 - 2%
Brightening serum	0.5 - 1%
Chemical peel (rinse-off)	2 - 5%

References

Graf E & Eaton JW (1990) — Antioxidant functions of phytic acid. PMID: 2156810
SpecialChem — Phytic Acid INCI profile
EWG Skin Deep — Score 1/10

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