Malassezin

MAL

4/10

Concern level

Moderate concern

A fungal indole metabolite associated with Malassezia species and skin-surface biochemistry rather than a standard mainstream cosmetic raw material. Public literature describes it as part of the Malassezia tryptophan-metabolite family and as an aryl hydrocarbon receptor-active compound. ([pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3714356/?utm_source=openai))

Pore-clogging

Non-comedogenic

Pregnancy

Caution

Regulatory

No data

Benefits

Brightening

Chemical Properties

Molecular Weight

338.38 g/mol

Typical Concentration

0.10% - 0.75%

Skin Type Compatibility

dry skin4/10

oily skin4/10

sensitive skin2/10

acne prone3/10

mature skin3/10

normal skin4/10

Interactions

incompatible with: No well-established formulation interactions are publicly documented, Use caution in complex microbiome-focused formulas where Malassezia metabolism may matter

Risks & Warnings

Public cosmetic safety data are very limited. Because it is a biologically active fungal metabolite and not a well-established cosmetic workhorse ingredient, caution is warranted for sensitive skin and for products intended for damaged or compromised skin barriers. ([pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3714356/?utm_source=openai))

Vegan Cruelty-Free

Found In Products

Mother Science