What is Arginine?

Arginine, also known as L-arginine, is a semi-essential amino acid in human metabolism. This means that, under normal conditions, our body can synthesize it in adequate amounts. However, in situations of stress, illness, or aging, its endogenous production may be insufficient, so it is often provided through diet or supplements.

From a biochemical perspective, arginine participates in multiple key metabolic pathways:

• Nitric oxide synthesis: It acts as a substrate for nitric oxide synthase, the enzyme responsible for generating NO, a vasodilator essential for cardiovascular health and microcirculation.
• Urea cycle: Its presence is essential for eliminating ammonia from protein catabolism, converting it into urea, which is excreted in the urine.
• Production of polyamines: Molecules involved in cell growth and proliferation, as well as in collagen synthesis.

Use of arginine in aesthetic medicine

In aesthetic medicine, arginine has become a fundamental ally due to its vasodilatory action and its tissue regeneration capacity.

1. One of its most relevant applications is the improvement of microcirculation and the reduction of skin sagging: as a precursor to nitric oxide, arginine enhances blood flow in the dermis, which promotes cellular oxygenation and nutrition. This increase in perfusion not only helps firm and tone the skin but also aids in reducing fluid retention and edema associated with mesotherapy or lymphatic drainage treatments. Whether administered systemically through oral supplements or locally through controlled injections, its vasoprotective effect results in firmer and revitalized skin.
2. Another major benefit of arginine in aesthetics is its ability to stimulate collagen synthesis. As a semi-essential amino acid, arginine promotes the formation of proline and hydroxyproline, critical components of the extracellular matrix. This is particularly valuable in procedures such as hyaluronic acid dermal fillers, where arginine improves integration and extends the longevity of the filler material. It is also used in percutaneous collagen induction therapies (“microneedling”), where it is combined with growth factors to enhance dermal regeneration. The result is firmer, more elastic skin that is resistant to the passage of time.
3. Additionally, arginine plays a prominent role in tissue healing and repair after invasive or ablative procedures, such as fractional laser or chemical peels. Its ability to promote fibroblast and keratinocyte proliferation, as well as increase levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), accelerates neovascularization and reepithelialization. Furthermore, thanks to its modulatory action on the inflammatory response, it helps reduce erythema and post-procedure inflammation, shortening recovery times and improving patient comfort.
4. Finally, in protocols that combine aesthetic equipment, such as focused ultrasound (HIFU), radiofrequency, or cryolipolysis, arginine is administered in synergy with other molecules, such as citrulline, which enhances nitric oxide production; glutamine, which provides substrate for protein synthesis and modulates immunity; and antioxidant vitamins (C and E), which protect newly formed collagen fibers from oxidative damage. This multimodal strategy maximizes the benefits of the devices, enhancing both the effectiveness of the treatments and the long-term quality of the skin.

Arginine in cosmetic formulations

In cosmetics, arginine is a versatile ingredient found in creams, serums, and ampoules due to its moisturizing and reparative properties:

1. Moisturizer and skin conditioner
   • It increases skin elasticity and smoothness, improving the barrier function.
   • It acts as an osmoprotectant, regulating the water balance of the epidermis.
2. Buffering agent and pH regulator
   • It is used to stabilize the pH of formulations, improving skin tolerance and the stability of sensitive active ingredients.
3. Penetration enhancer
   • It facilitates the absorption of other active ingredients, thanks to its low molecular weight and affinity with the intercellular lipid matrix.
4. Anti-aging and protection against photoaging
   • Topical arginine helps strengthen the dermal matrix, reducing fine wrinkles and expression lines.
   • Its indirect antioxidant action (via stimulation of glutathione synthesis) helps neutralize free radicals generated by UV radiation.

Natural sources of arginine

The main dietary sources of arginine include:

• Lean meats (turkey, chicken, beef)
• Fish and seafood
• Nuts (almonds, peanuts)
• Seeds (pumpkin, sesame)
• Legumes (lentils, chickpeas)

In the field of supplementation, arginine is typically sold in the form of pure L-arginine or combined with other compounds (citrulline, glutamine, B vitamins), aiming to enhance its vasodilatory effects and muscle protein synthesis.

Elasticity

Firmness

Skin