Glycine

Glycine is a non-essential amino acid, meaning the body can synthesize it on its own. Glycine acts as a substrate for the biosynthesis of a number of skin proteins holding the skin together, examples of which include collagen and elastin. Although the body can synthesize glycine on its own, with advanced age the production rate generally goes on a decline. Its topical application proved to be efficient as a moisturizer by making the skin retain water content, thus enabling the skin to stay soft.
Besides its hydration effect, it is an essential amino acid in popular peptides like copper tripeptide-1, palmitoyl tripeptide-1, and palmitoyl hexapeptide-12. All these peptides are known for their active anti-aging and skin-repair properties; therefore, glycine is of great value in formulations intended to improve skin hydration to maintain a young-looking complexion. Thus, its dual role in structural integrity and improved hydration makes it an important ingredient in skin care treatment formulations targeted toward moisture retention with anti-aging benefits.