Ribose

Ribose is a hydrating plant sugar that can be derived naturally from corn seeds. Its anti-aging benefits are debated in research, hence the “average” rating we’ve given it here. Suppliers of this ingredient claim that it mimics the ribose present in all living cells as a source of energy. They purport using ribose topically as a cell-energizer helps slow the development of signs of aging, including wrinkles, loss of elasticity, and dull complexion when used within the recommended amount between 0.5-1%. There’s some independent research supporting these claims with in-vivo testing of a ribose-based (0.5%) facial lotion that showed wrinkle reduction after 14 days and improved tone with continued use. However, only 20 subjects were involved, and the study ended at 28 days, which isn’t a lot to go on when ribose is compared to numerous other youth-restoring ingredients with mounds of research supporting their use. However, there’s also conflicting research that indicates ribose exposure accelerated signs of aging in reconstructed human skin models. It did so by accelerating the formation of advanced glycation end-products, rogue sugar molecules that cause damage to collagen and the cells that make it. And this wasn’t a 100% concentration of ribose, it was 10 micromolars (which equates to just 0.000009999999999999999 millliters—in other words, a very small amount). In raw material form, ribose is a white-to-tan powder that is highly water soluble and easy to formulate with. The 2019 Cosmetic Ingredient Review assessment of ribose deemed it safe in the present practices of use and concentrations described in their report. Their report surveyed products containing up to 0.05%, which is below the amount many suppliers recommend using.