Regulatory Requirements for NMN in Cosmetics in China

β-Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is a naturally occurring, biologically active nucleotide. In the human body, it is a direct precursor for the synthesis of NAD+ (coenzyme I), and its function is exerted by increasing NAD+ levels. Since nicotinamide belongs to the vitamin B3 family, NMN is considered a vitamin B derivative.

This ingredient is widely involved in biochemical reactions in the human body and closely linked to immunity and metabolism. According to recent studies, NMN's primary function is to improve age-related physiological decline and pathological conditions. As a result, NMN is often considered to have "anti-aging" effects. Given its purported anti-aging effects, NMN has become a popular new cosmetic ingredient (NCI). It has been notified 10 times by different notifiers, becoming the new ingredient with the highest number of notifications.

However, regulatory authorities have maintained a strict stance towards its use in food and medicine products. The China State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) has clarified that the use of NMN in food and medicine products is illegal, raising concerns about whether NMN has anti-aging efficacies, as well as whether similar bans may also be brought to the cosmetics field in the future. In this context, this article aims to explore these issues surrounding the use of NMN in the cosmetics industry.

NMN’s Regulatory Status: Notified as a NCI 10 times