acetyl zingerone

**Acetyl zingerone** is a synthetic phenolic alkanone and multifunctional skincare ingredient structurally inspired by zingerone (from ginger) and curcumin. It functions as a potent antioxidant, physical quencher of excited state species (notably singlet oxygen), selective chelator of transition metals (iron and copper), matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) inhibitor, and an anti-inflammatory agent. Notable mechanisms include scavenging radical and non-radical reactive oxygen species (ROS), preventing both immediate and delayed DNA photodamage (cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers, or CPDs), stabilizing ascorbic acid precursors, and supporting the skin's extracellular matrix. Acetyl zingerone is designed to have enhanced photostability over similar natural antioxidants like curcumin or α-tocopherol. Its primary use is in topical skincare formulations to protect skin from UV and environmental damage, reduce photoaging, and strengthen skin defenses.

Brand names

Synoxyl AZ

Other names

3-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzyl)pentane-2,4-dione