Tetrahydrocurcumin
Tetrahydrocurcumin Manufacturer | Colorless Turmeric Extract (CAS: 36062-04-1) Source: Curcuma longa (Hydrogenation) | Purity: $\ge$ 98% (HPLC) | Certifications: ISO9001, Kosher, Halal USP: Superior Whitening Efficacy | Non-Staining (Colorless) | High Antioxidant Stability
Introduction
Tetrahydrocurcumin (THC; CAS: 36062-04-1) is the primary active metabolite of Curcumin. Unlike the vibrant yellow pigment of regular Curcumin, Tetrahydrocurcumin is an off-white to white powder. This physical characteristic solves the major staining issue of turmeric extracts, making it highly versatile for cosmetic applications.
Biochemically, THC retains the phenolic hydroxyl groups of Curcumin but lacks the conjugated double bonds in the central heptadiene linker. This structural change confers higher chemical stability and superior antioxidant activity, making it a premium ingredient for skin brightening and anti-aging formulations.
Category：
Keywords：
chitosan
carboxymethyl
Functions
1.Potent Skin Whitening (Tyrosinase Inhibition)
Tetrahydrocurcumin is a powerful tyrosinase inhibitor. Studies have shown it inhibits melanogenesis more effectively than Kojic Acid, Arbutin, and Vitamin C. It prevents the formation of dark spots and hyperpigmentation by interfering with the melanin synthesis pathway.
2.Superior Antioxidant Protection
The hydrogenation of the conjugated double bonds increases the molecule's ability to scavenge free radicals. THC effectively neutralizes reactive oxygen species (ROS) and prevents lipid peroxidation on the skin surface, protecting against UV-induced damage and photoaging.
3.Anti-Inflammatory & Skin Soothing
Like its parent compound, THC exhibits significant anti-inflammatory properties. It downregulates pro-inflammatory cytokines (such as TNF-$\alpha$ and IL-6), helping to reduce redness, irritation, and acne-associated inflammation.
Applications
• Cosmetics (Topical):
◯ Whitening Creams/Lotions: The core active ingredient for "Spot Correcting" and "Brightening" lines.
◯ Anti-Aging Serums: Protects collagen and reduces fine lines via antioxidant defense.
◯ Sun Care: Added to sunscreens to mitigate UV damage (SPF booster).
• Nutraceuticals: Used in oral supplements for its enhanced bioavailability compared to regular Curcumin, supporting joint health and neuroprotection (though less common than its cosmetic use).
• Pharmaceuticals: Investigated as an anti-diabetic and neuroprotective agent.
Flow Chart
Our production transforms standard Curcumin into a stable, colorless active:
1.Raw Material: High-purity Curcumin (95%) extracted from Curcuma longa rhizomes.
2.Hydrogenation: Catalytic hydrogenation reaction under controlled pressure and temperature to reduce the double bonds.
3.Filtration: Removal of catalyst.
4.Crystallization: Solvent crystallization to isolate Tetrahydrocurcumin.
5.Purification: Recrystallization to remove residual Curcumin (yellow pigment) and other demethoxy derivatives.
6.Drying: Vacuum drying.
7.Milling: Micronization to a fine white powder for better cosmetic dispersion.
Quality Standard of Lactoferrin
Product: Tetrahydrocurcumin 98% (Cosmetic Grade)
CAS No.: 36062-04-1
Item | Specification | Result |
Appearance | Off-white to white crystalline powder | Conforms |
Assay (HPLC) | ≥ 98.0% | 98.5% |
Melting Point | 95°C – 97°C | 96.2°C |
Loss on Drying | ≤ 1.0% | 0.4% |
Ash Content | ≤ 0.1% | 0.05% |
Heavy Metals (Pb) | ≤ 10 ppm | < 5 ppm |
Arsenic (As) | ≤ 2 ppm | < 1 ppm |
Color (1% Solution) | Colorless to very pale yellow | Conforms |
Microbiology | Total Plate Count < 1000 CFU/g | Conforms |
Method of Analysis of Lactoferrin
• HPLC: The standard method for purity determination.
• Column: C18 Reverse Phase
• Detector: UV at 280 nm (Note: THC absorbs at a lower wavelength than Curcumin's 425 nm due to the loss of conjugation).
• Differentiation: The method ensures the absence of residual yellow Curcumin (<0.5%) to guarantee the "colorless" claim.
Reference Chromatogram of Lactoferrin Reference Substance
The chromatogram exhibits a major peak for Tetrahydrocurcumin. Unlike Curcumin which peaks later and absorbs in the visible yellow range, THC elutes specifically and is detected in the UV range, confirming the successful hydrogenation process.
Stability and Safety
Stability Studies
• Shelf Life: 24 months.
• pH Stability: Stable in acidic to neutral pH (pH 5.0 - 7.0). In strong alkaline conditions, it may degrade or discolor.
• Data: Formulations containing 0.5% THC showed no significant color change or assay loss after 3 months at 45°C.
Safety & Handling (MSDS Summary)
• Classification: Non-hazardous.
• Skin Compatibility: Non-irritating and non-sensitizing. Safe for use in sensitive skin formulations.
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place. Protect from light. Although more stable than Curcumin, prolonged light exposure should still be minimized.
Customer Comments
Product Developer, K-Beauty Brand, South Korea
2026.02.25
★★★★☆
Purchasing Manager, Cosmetic OEM, France
2026.02.25
★★★★☆
Our Certificates
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HALAL
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FAQ
Is Tetrahydrocurcumin natural?
It is a nature-identical metabolite. While found in trace amounts in turmeric rhizomes (and formed in the human gut after eating curcumin), commercial extraction is not viable. Our product is produced by hydrogenating natural Curcumin, retaining the natural origin structure while enhancing stability.
What is the recommended dosage for whitening?
Effective dosages typically range from 0.25% to 3.0%. It can be combined with Vitamin C, Niacinamide, or Glabridin for synergistic brightening effects.
How does it compare to Vitamin C?
THC is more pH stable than L-Ascorbic Acid and does not oxidize as easily (turning brown). It offers comparable or superior antioxidant capacity without the stinging sensation often associated with acidic Vitamin C serums.
References
1.Majeed, M., et al. (1995). "Curcuminoids: Antioxidant Phytonutrients." NutriScience Publishers.
2.Sugiyama, Y., et al. (1996). "Involvement of the beta-diketone moiety in the antioxidative mechanism of tetrahydrocurcumin." Biochemical Pharmacology.
3.Portes, E., et al. (2007). "Comparative study of the antioxidant properties of tetrahydrocurcuminoids and curcuminoids." Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.
4.Lai, C.S., et al. (2011). "Tetrahydrocurcumin is more effective than curcumin in preventing azoxymethane-induced colon carcinogenesis." Molecular Nutrition & Food Research.
5.Mukherjee, P.K., et al. (2011). "Bioactive compounds from natural resources against skin aging." Phytomedicine.
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