L-carnitine is an amino acid present in the body, mainly in muscles and the heart. It plays a key role in fatty acid metabolism by transporting fatty acids into mitochondria for energy production. These properties also make it a common ingredient in skincare formulations. But does topical application of L-carnitine carry risks? Explore this question.
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Does topical application of L-carnitine carry any risks?
Summary
- Why is L-carnitine used in skincare?
- What precautions should be taken when applying L-carnitine topically?
- Sources
Published July 4, 2025,
updated on July 4, 2025,
by
Jamal, PhD, Doctor of human pathology and infectious diseases
—
5 min read
Why is L-carnitine used in skincare?
In the skincare market, L-carnitine has become a preferred ingredient to address skin imbalances linked to lipid metabolism. Present in the body, this molecule plays a key role in transporting fatty acids to the mitochondria, where they convert to energy. Applied topically, it uses the same mechanism to promote lipid breakdown in subcutaneous tissues, making it a valued active in treatments targeting cellulite. The benefits of L-carnitine for the skin do not end there: studies show it can also modulate sebum production, a property useful for oily skin.
Did you know? The carnitine exists in two stereoisomeric forms, D-carnitine and L-carnitine, but only the latter is biologically active.
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What precautions should be taken when applying L-carnitine topically?
To date, L-carnitine is considered a well-tolerated cosmetic ingredient, in facial products designed for oily or blemish-prone skin. Several studies have tested this compound at concentrations between 0.5% and 2%, without causing adverse skin reactions. L-carnitine is also suitable for sensitive skin, as no reports of redness, irritation, or itching have been recorded after topical application of a product containing this ingredient.
Regarding its use in vulnerable populations, such as pregnant or lactating individuals and young children, available data are limited or nonexistent. However, L-carnitine topical application is not considered a hazardous skin care ingredient during pregnancy, unlike retinoids or salicylic acid, for example. There are a priori no contraindications to the use of L-carnitine by pregnant individuals, although, as a precaution, consulting a healthcare provider remains advisable.
This refers to topical application of L-carnitine rather than oral administration. Oral intake of L-carnitine during pregnancy should be assessed on a case-by-case basis with a physician.
Sources
BUM-CHUN L. & al. Anti-aging effects of L-carnitine on human skin. Journal of the Society of Cosmetic Scientists of Korea (2004).
FOITZIK K. & al. L-carnitine–L-tartrate promotes human hair growth in vitro. Experimental Dermatology (2007).
DAYANAND C. D. & al. Carnitine: a novel health factor – an overview. International Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Research (2011).
GROBLER A. F. & al. Topical and transdermal delivery of L-carnitine. Skin Pharmacology and Physiology (2011).
KHAN H. A. & al. A review of the logistic role of L-carnitine in the management of radiation toxicity and radiotherapy side effects. Journal of Applied Toxicology (2011).
EFSA Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP). Scientific Opinion on the safety and efficacy of L-carnitine and L-carnitine L-tartrate as feed additives for all animal species based on a dossier submitted by Lonza Benelux BV. EFSA Journal (2012).
PEIRANO R. I. & al. Topically applied L-carnitine effectively reduces sebum secretion in human skin. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2012).
KOETH R. A. & al. Intestinal microbiota metabolism of L-carnitine, a nutrient in red meat, promotes atherosclerosis. Nature Medicine (2013).
ADEVA-ANDANY M. M. & al. Significance of L-carnitine for human health. IUBMB Life (2017).
UDOMPATAIKUL M. & al. Efficacy of anti-sebum moisturizing cream containing 2% L-carnitine and 5% epigallocatechin gallate in seborrhea: a randomized clinical trial. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2023).
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