Raspberry Ketone

Raspberry Ketone Description

Raspberry ketones are phenolic, fragrant compounds found in red raspberries (Rubus idaeus) that have antioxidant properties when applied to skin. Although found naturally, most raspberry ketones are created synthetically due to the high price of extraction.

Ketones are natural substances that both the body and plants make. In the human body, the liver produces ketones when it breaks down fats. In plants, they help with signaling, growth and defense.

Raspberry ketones in skin care aren’t as common as raspberry ketones in supplements and the food industry; however, they are included in some formulas. Most often, raspberry ketones appear in skin care products as a perfuming agent due to their floral, sweet, raspberry scent. However, the volatile compounds that help create this scent can cause irritation, particularly in those with sensitive skin.

Outside of fragrance, raspberry ketones also offer skin antioxidant benefits. As a phenolic compound, raspberry ketones work to help shield skin from damaging outsiders, like UV rays and pollution, that would then go on to cause skin laxity, fine lines, wrinkles and an uneven tone.

In studies, raspberry ketones have also demonstrated cytotoxicity to melanocytes, meaning they have the potential to maim or kill melanin, the cells which give skin color and whose overproduction can cause dark spots. Although the research is promising, most of these studies have been conducted on mice and zebrafish and have resulted in selective depigmentation.

Outside of skin care, raspberry ketones are used as common flavoring agents and as compounds in supplements, particularly those related to hair growth and weight loss (more research is needed to prove their ability to accomplish both).

As a raw material, raspberry ketone appears as white granular crystals. Suppliers of this ingredient suggest using it in concentrations between 1.0%-3.0% in skin care applications.

Overall, raspberry ketones are interesting compounds that can provide both harm and benefits to skin. There are many other antioxidants, like vitamin C or niacinamide, that can provide the same anti-aging and skin tone benefits without harming skin. In fact, either of those well-studied ingredients also provide benefits raspberry ketones lack.