Showa Denko (SDK) finds Sodium dl-alpha-tocopheryl phosphate (TPNa) improves dark circles under eyes

Japan-based Showa Denko (SDK) has discovered that its water-soluble vitamin E derivative Sodium dl-alpha-tocopheryl phosphate (TPNa) is effective in improving dark circles around the eyes.

TPNa is a water-soluble vitamin E derivative with special chemical structure developed by SDK. The company sells TPNa as an ingredient for cosmetics, emphasising its anti-inflammatory and moisture-retenting properties.

In 2004, the TPNa was used in a quasi-drug to inhibit rough dry skin, receiving approval from the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare.

There are three types of dark circles seen around the eyes, blue circles caused by low microcirculation, brown circles due to accumulated blood-origin pigments, and black circles caused by the slackening or depression of skin.

SDK found that TPNa is effective against various dark circles through different approaches, including by boosting the circulation of the blood and metabolism.

In addition, TPNa has an enhancing effect on enzymes, which aid in the breakdown and removal of pigments that cause brown circles.