Introduction
N-Acetylglucosamine (NAG), also known as N-Acetyl-D-Glucosamine or GlcNAc, is an amino sugar naturally present in the human body and widely distributed in connective tissues, cartilage, and skin. It is a key precursor for hyaluronic acid synthesis and a fundamental building block of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) – the molecules that give cartilage its cushioning properties and skin its moisture-retaining capacity.
As a bulk raw material, NAG serves two major markets. In the nutraceutical sector, it supports joint comfort and cartilage health, often paired with glucosamine and chondroitin in joint-care formulations. In the cosmetic sector, it is prized as a gentle, multi-functional active that brightens skin tone, reduces hyperpigmentation, boosts hydration, and supports anti-aging – particularly effective when combined with niacinamide. Our NAG powder is manufactured through fermentation or crustacean-derived processes, with fermentation-derived (non-shellfish) grades available for vegan and allergen-conscious formulations. The result is a consistently pure, water-soluble powder that meets the quality requirements of supplement, food, and cosmetic manufacturers worldwide.
Key Features & Advantages
- High Purity – Available in ≥98% and ≥99% purity (HPLC) with full analytical documentation
- Excellent Water Solubility – Water-soluble (50 mg/mL); easy to incorporate into aqueous formulations without heating or co-solvents
- Two Origin Options – Fermentation-derived (non-shellfish, vegan-friendly) and crustacean-derived grades available
- Dual Application Versatility – One ingredient suitable for both oral supplements and topical cosmetic formulations
- Synergistic with Niacinamide – Formulates particularly well alongside vitamin B3 for enhanced skin tone evening
- Stable & Free-Flowing – White crystalline powder with excellent flowability, ideal for capsules, tablets, and powder blends
- Neutral Taste & Odor – Odorless with a clean profile; requires no masking in food and beverage applications
Technical Specifications (Typical – ≥98% Grade)
| Parameter | Specification | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Product Name | N-Acetyl-D-Glucosamine (NAG) | - |
| CAS Number | 7512-17-6 | - |
| INCI Name | Acetyl Glucosamine | - |
| Molecular Formula | C₈H₁₅NO₆ | - |
| Molecular Weight | 221.21 g/mol | - |
| Appearance | White crystalline, free-flowing powder | Visual |
| Assay (Purity) | ≥98.0% – ≥99.0% (HPLC) | HPLC |
| Melting Point | 196 – 211°C (dec.) | - |
| Specific Rotation | +41.0° ± 2.0° | - |
| Solubility | Water (50 mg/mL); slightly soluble in ethanol | - |
| Particle Size | 100 mesh (≥90% pass) | Sieve Analysis |
| pH (1% solution) | 5.5 – 7.5 | - |
| Loss on Drying | ≤0.5% | 105°C |
| Residue on Ignition | ≤0.1% | USP <281> |
| Heavy Metals (as Pb) | ≤10 ppm | ICP-MS |
| Lead (Pb) | ≤3.0 ppm | ICP-MS |
| Arsenic (As) | ≤1.0 ppm | ICP-MS |
| Mercury (Hg) | ≤0.1 ppm | ICP-MS |
| Cadmium (Cd) | ≤1.0 ppm | ICP-MS |
| Total Plate Count | ≤1,000 CFU/g | USP <61> |
| Yeast & Mold | ≤100 CFU/g | USP <2021> |
| E. coli | Negative | USP <2022> |
| Salmonella | Negative | USP <2022> |
Specifications are for reference. Please request the current COA for batch-specific data.
Key Health & Skin Benefits
N-Acetylglucosamine is a scientifically studied amino sugar with benefits for both joint health and skin care. Here are the key highlights in simple terms:
1. Supports Joint Comfort and Mobility
NAG is a natural building block of cartilage tissue. It helps promote the growth and repair of cartilage cells, supporting joint comfort and healthy joint function. Studies have shown that oral NAG supplementation can improve cartilage metabolism in healthy individuals.
2. Helps Maintain Healthy Cartilage
As a key component of glycosaminoglycans, NAG helps maintain the structural integrity of cartilage. Research indicates it can support the balance between collagen synthesis and degradation in joint tissues.
3. Brightens Skin and Evens Tone
NAG inhibits tyrosinase – the enzyme responsible for melanin production – helping to lighten dark spots, post-acne marks, and uneven pigmentation. It works particularly well when combined with niacinamide.
4. Boosts Skin Hydration
NAG is a precursor to hyaluronic acid, the molecule that holds moisture in the skin. By supporting the skin's natural hyaluronic acid production, NAG helps improve hydration, elasticity, and overall skin plumpness.
5. Supports Anti-Aging and Skin Renewal
NAG promotes collagen synthesis and supports the skin's natural renewal processes. It helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and supports a smoother, more radiant complexion.
6. Gentle and Well-Tolerated
NAG is a naturally occurring substance in the human body and is generally well-tolerated. Clinical studies have reported no supplement-related adverse events at typical oral doses.
Detailed Applications
| Application Category | Specific Uses |
|---|---|
| Joint Health Supplements | Capsules, tablets, and powders for joint comfort and cartilage support, often combined with glucosamine and chondroitin |
| Skin Brightening Cosmetics | Serums, creams, and essences for hyperpigmentation, melasma, post-acne marks, and uneven skin tone (typical use level: 2%–10%) |
| Hydrating & Anti-Aging Skincare | Moisturizers, anti-aging creams, and eye treatments for improved hydration, elasticity, and skin renewal |
| Functional Foods & Beverages | Fortified foods and drinks targeting joint health or skin beauty from within |
| Hyaluronic Acid Precursor Formulations | Products designed to support the body's natural hyaluronic acid production |
| Animal Nutrition | Feed additives for joint support in companion animals and livestock |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the difference between N-Acetylglucosamine and Glucosamine?
A: NAG is a derivative of glucose with an acetyl group attached, while glucosamine is an amino sugar without the acetyl group. NAG is a precursor to hyaluronic acid and is naturally present in the body. Glucosamine is commonly used in joint health supplements. Both support joint health, but NAG has additional skin benefits due to its role in hyaluronic acid synthesis.
Q: Is your NAG fermentation-derived or shellfish-derived?
A: We offer both fermentation-derived (non-shellfish) and crustacean-derived grades. Fermentation-derived NAG is suitable for vegan formulations and individuals with shellfish allergies. The origin is clearly stated on the Certificate of Analysis for each batch.
Q: What are the recommended usage levels in cosmetics?
A: For cosmetic applications, NAG is typically used at 2%–10% in serums, creams, and essences. It works particularly well when combined with niacinamide for enhanced skin brightening and tone evening.
Q: Is NAG suitable for oral consumption?
A: Yes. NAG is available in food-grade specifications suitable for oral supplements and functional foods. Clinical studies have used doses of 500–1,000 mg/day with no reported adverse effects.
Q: What is the solubility of NAG?
A: NAG is highly water-soluble (approximately 50 mg/mL) and slightly soluble in ethanol. It is easy to incorporate into aqueous formulations.
Q: Is the product suitable for vegans and vegetarians?
A: Fermentation-derived NAG is 100% vegan and free from animal-derived ingredients. Crustacean-derived NAG is not suitable for vegans.
Q: Does it contain allergens?
A: Fermentation-derived NAG is free from shellfish allergens. Crustacean-derived NAG may contain shellfish allergens. Allergen declarations are available upon request.
Q: How should NAG Powder be stored?
A: Store in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep containers tightly sealed when not in use. Under these conditions, the product maintains quality for 24 months.
Q: What ingredients work well with NAG?
A: NAG works synergistically with:
- Niacinamide – Enhanced skin tone evening and brightening
- Hyaluronic acid – Combined hydration support
- Glucosamine & Chondroitin – Comprehensive joint health formulations
- Vitamin C – Enhanced collagen support and antioxidant protection
For inquiries, quotations, or sample requests, please contact: sales@huilinbio-tech.com
References
- Salvatore S, Heuschkel R, Tomlin S, Davies SE, Edwards S, Walker-Smith JA, French I, Murch SH. A pilot study of N-acetyl glucosamine, a nutritional substrate for glycosaminoglycan synthesis, in paediatric chronic inflammatory bowel disease. Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 2000;14(12):1567-1579. doi:10.1046/j.1365-2036.2000.00883.x. PMID: 11121904.
- Effect of N-acetylglucosamine administration on cartilage metabolism and safety in healthy subjects without symptoms of arthritis: A case report. PubMed.
- A Safety Evaluation of N-Acetylglucosamine Produced by Bacillus subtilis BNZR 2-7: A Comprehensive In Vitro and In Vivo Genotoxicity Assessment. 2025.
- Development and characterization of new and scalable topical formulations containing N-acetyl-d-glucosamine-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles. PubMed.
- Molecular mechanisms and biomedical applications of glucosamine as a potential multifunctional therapeutic agent. ScienceDirect. 2016.
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