N-Acetyl-Glucosamine (NAG)
AKA “NAG”
Ingredient
Ingredient Facts
N-acetyl-glucosamine (NAG)
Ingredient · Skin Conditioning · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Skin Conditioner
Not Clean
N-Acetyl-Glucosamine (NAG) is a cosmetic ingredient.
Formula
C8H15NO6
Mol. Weight
221.21
CAS #
10036-64-3
Form
Liquid
See origin →
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.
Conditions Skin
Reduces Inflammation
Locks In Moisture
Fights Bacteria
Softens & Smooths
Traditional Use
Derived from chitin (found in shellfish shells), NAG was developed in the late 20th century as a skincare ingredient. It became popular after research in the 2000s suggested it could support skin hydration and reduce fine lines by promoting hyaluronic acid production.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
Dehydration
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR