Betaine Anhydrous (Trimethyl Glycine) Not for Medicinal Use

Betaine Anhydrous (Trimethyl Glycine) is a naturally derived, water-soluble compound used across two industries: cosmetics and nutraceuticals. In skincare and haircare, it works as a powerful humectant that pulls in and holds moisture. In food and dietary supplement formulations, it's used as an osmolyte and methyl donor ingredient. This white crystalline powder is highly soluble in water and dissolves easily into both cosmetic and supplement formulations.

INCI Name: Betaine

Alternate Names: Trimethylglycine, TMG, N,N,N-Trimethylglycine

Molecular Formula: C₅H₁₁NO₂

Purity of the Ingredient: ≥ 98%

Country of Origin: India

Not for medicinal use.

Cosmetic Benefits and Uses:

• One of the most effective humectants for skin hydration and plumping fine lines
• Strengthens the skin's natural moisture barrier, reducing water loss (TEWL)
• Soothes sensitive, reactive, and irritated skin
• In haircare, deep-conditions, reduces frizz, and strengthens hair structure
• Naturally derived from plant sources (beets, quinoa); vegan-friendly and suitable for all skin types
• Multifunctional: works as a humectant, skin conditioner, and preservative-sparing ingredient
• Boosts the performance of other active ingredients in a formulation

Nutraceutical & Dietary Supplement Uses:

• Used as an osmolyte ingredient in sports nutrition and hydration-support formulations
• Common raw material in pre-workout and performance supplement blends
• Functions as a methyl donor compound, a role widely used in dietary supplement formulations
• Water-soluble, making it easy to incorporate into powders, capsules, and functional beverage formulations
• Plant-derived (beet/quinoa source), suitable for vegan and vegetarian supplement lines
• Typical supplement inclusion levels vary by formulation — please contact us with your target dose for formulation guidance

How It Works:

• Acts as an osmolyte, drawing moisture from the air and skin's lower layers into the surface layer
• Penetrates the hair shaft to restore moisture balance and improve elasticity
• Binds water into collagen and locks it into the skin for lasting hydration
• Reduces moisture-related frizz by maintaining internal hydration in hair
• Heat-stable, making it suitable for creams, lotions, serums, and treatments

Concentration and Solubility (Cosmetic Use):

• Serums & Essences: 2-3%
• Creams & Lotions: 2-3%
• Hair Conditioners & Masks: 3-4%
• Face Masks: 3-4%
• Shampoos: 1-1.5%
• Toners & Hydrating Mists: 2%
• Readily soluble in water and glycerin; excellent water-phase ingredient

pH and Temperature Range for Best Use:

• Optimal pH Range: 5.0 – 6.5 (stable at pH 3.0 – 8.0)
• Temperature Stability: Stable below 40°C; can tolerate brief exposure to moderate heat during manufacturing
• Shelf Life: 2-3 years when stored in cool, dry conditions away from direct light
• Compatibility: Works well with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, panthenol, aloe vera, and peptides

How to Use Betaine Anhydrous (DIY, Cosmetic Formulations):

• For Serums & Toners: Dissolve 2-3% Betaine in distilled water (warm water speeds this up). Add to the water phase before other actives. Adjust pH to 5.5-6.5 with citric acid if needed.
• For Creams & Lotions: Dissolve Betaine in the water phase at 2-3% before emulsification. Proceed with your standard cream-making process, then add preservative once cooled.
• For Hair Conditioners: Dissolve 3-4% Betaine in water or conditioner base. Combine with natural conditioning agents (coconut oil, argan oil, shea butter) and mix well.
• For Face Masks: Mix 3-4% Betaine powder directly into a clay base, or dissolve in water first and blend into the mask. Adjust consistency with water as needed.
• For Shampoos: Dissolve 1-1.5% Betaine in the water phase before adding surfactants. Works as both a humectant and natural conditioning booster.

Synergistic Ingredient Pairings (Cosmetic Formulations):

• With Hyaluronic Acid: 1-2% HA + 2-3% Betaine = super-hydrating serums
• With Glycerin: 3-5% glycerin + 2-3% Betaine = complementary humectants
• With Niacinamide: 4-5% niacinamide + 2% Betaine = skin barrier support
• With Panthenol: 2-3% panthenol + 2-3% Betaine = strengthening and hydrating
• With Peptides: 2-5% peptides + 2% Betaine = enhanced anti-aging formulations
• With Natural Oils: Works well in emulsions with argan, jojoba, squalane, or coconut oil