Ingredient review
Sodium Butyroyl/Formoyl Hyaluronate
INCI: Sodium Butyroyl/Formoyl Hyaluronate
A next-gen hyaluronic acid derivative that offers deeper, longer-lasting hydration with less stickiness than standard HA.
In plain English
Sodium Butyroyl/Formoyl Hyaluronate is a lab-modified version of hyaluronic acid (HA), a substance your skin naturally makes to hold water. The modification adds small fatty acid groups (butyroyl and formoyl) to the HA molecule, which helps it stick to skin better and resist breakdown. This means it can hydrate deeper layers and keep working longer, without the tacky feel some HA serums have. Think of it as an upgraded HA that's more stable and effective for plumping fine lines.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Strong fit for many routines
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- semi synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Easy yes for most routines
Sodium Butyroyl/Formoyl Hyaluronate is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Sodium Butyroyl/Formoyl Hyaluronate.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A semi-synthetic derivative of hyaluronic acid, where butyroyl and formoyl groups are chemically attached to the sodium hyaluronate backbone. This modification improves its lipophilicity (ability to mix with oils) and resistance to enzymatic degradation.
How it works
It binds to water molecules like regular HA, but the added fatty groups help it anchor to the skin's lipid barrier, reducing wash-off and prolonging hydration. It also penetrates slightly deeper into the stratum corneum (the outermost skin layer) to deliver moisture where it's needed most.
Pros
Enhanced hydration longevity
The modified structure resists breakdown by skin enzymes, so it stays active longer than regular HA, providing all-day moisture.
Non-sticky feel
Unlike some high-molecular-weight HA serums, this derivative leaves a silky, non-tacky finish, making it ideal under makeup.
Cons and cautions
Higher cost
Products with this ingredient tend to be pricier due to the more complex manufacturing process.
Less research than standard HA
While promising, there are fewer independent studies on this specific derivative compared to the decades of data on regular hyaluronic acid.
Best for
- Anyone seeking deep hydration without a sticky finish
- People with dry or dehydrated skin looking for a plumping effect
Use caution if
- Those with known allergies to hyaluronic acid derivatives (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Sodium Butyroyl/Formoyl Hyaluronate is considered safe for topical use at typical concentrations. It is non-irritating and non-comedogenic, with a low allergy risk. No serious adverse effects have been reported in cosmetic use.
Research notes
Studies indicate improved skin retention and hydration compared to unmodified HA, but most evidence comes from in vitro and short-term clinical trials. More long-term human studies would strengthen the evidence base.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.1% to 1%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for cosmetic use in the EU, US, and other major markets as a safe skin conditioning agent.
- Common uses
- Serums, Moisturizers, Eye creams, Sheet masks
- Environmental note
- Produced via chemical modification of bio-fermented hyaluronic acid; no known significant environmental concerns.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often found in 'next-gen' HA serums marketed for deeper hydration.
- It is compatible with most other skincare ingredients, including vitamin C and retinol.
Common questions
What is Sodium Butyroyl/Formoyl Hyaluronate in beauty products?
Sodium Butyroyl/Formoyl Hyaluronate is a lab-modified version of hyaluronic acid (HA), a substance your skin naturally makes to hold water. The modification adds small fatty acid groups (butyroyl and formoyl) to the HA molecule, which helps it stick to skin better and resist breakdown. This means it can hydrate deeper layers and keep working longer, without the tacky feel some HA serums have. Think of it as an upgraded HA that's more stable and effective for plumping fine lines.
What does Sodium Butyroyl/Formoyl Hyaluronate do in a beauty product?
It binds to water molecules like regular HA, but the added fatty groups help it anchor to the skin's lipid barrier, reducing wash-off and prolonging hydration. It also penetrates slightly deeper into the stratum corneum (the outermost skin layer) to deliver moisture where it's needed most.
Is Sodium Butyroyl/Formoyl Hyaluronate safe for most people?
Sodium Butyroyl/Formoyl Hyaluronate is considered safe for topical use at typical concentrations. It is non-irritating and non-comedogenic, with a low allergy risk. No serious adverse effects have been reported in cosmetic use.
Who should be careful with Sodium Butyroyl/Formoyl Hyaluronate?
Those with known allergies to hyaluronic acid derivatives (rare)
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.