Albumen
INCI: Egg White
Also known as: Egg White
Another name for egg white Used as food and as a food additive
Best For Skin Types
All skin types
Usage Frequency
As directed on product packaging
EWG Safety Score
What Is Albumen?
Albumen is another term for egg white, specifically egg white originating from chickens. It is different from the similarly spelled albumin, the main type of protein found in human blood, although confusingly, albumin is found in egg whites.
Albumen has numerous applications, most commonly as a lower-cholesterol alternative to egg yolks, and as a food additive. Some people also use it as a do-it-yourself face mask, since applying egg whites has a temporary tightening effect on skin, thanks to its ovomucoid content (ovomucoid is a protein that has constrictive properties). Unfortunately, that constriction can lead to skin itching and redness. Ovomucin is also one of the primary allergens in eggs, meaning it's to be avoided if you have an egg allergy.
That said, some components from egg white, when extracted in a lab setting, are proving to have great potential in the world of skin care. Of interest are lab-extracted peptides from egg whites, which studies show positively impact skin wound healing. Scientists have also found proteins within egg whites that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, making this an exciting emerging area of research.
How It Works
Clinical Evidence & References
Regulatory information
Standardised cosmetic-ingredient identifiers used by regulators.
Show identifiers
- INCI Name
- ALBUMEN
- EC Number
- -
- Function
- Film Forming, Hair Conditioning, Skin Conditioning
Related Ingredients
Acetyl Tributyl Citrate
Acetyl tributyl citrate is an ingredient that’s related to citric acid
C30-45 Alkyl Cetearyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer
No known benefits
Di-PPG-3 Myristyl Ether Adipate
Derivative of myristyl alcohol (a fatty alcohol) and adipic acid
Film-Forming Agent
Large group of ingredients used in both haircare and skincare
Learn More About Skincare Ingredients
Explore our comprehensive ingredient glossary to understand what's in your products.
Browse All IngredientsShop Our Products
Find professional skincare solutions at Skintique.