Alpha lipoic acid is a fatty acid found in every cell of the human body. They are responsible for turning glucose into energy. Alpha lipoic acids are derived mainly from dietary sources such as liver, spinach and brewers yeast.

They are commonly used as antioxidants in anti-aging skin care products to fight damage to cells caused by free radicals. Alpha lipoic acids dissolve in both water and fat, and are considered to be more effective in fighting free radicals than most other antioxidants.

Alpha lipoic acids can also combat inflammation (which reduces the production of collagen) and they offer protection against sun damage and skin cancer.