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Well studied
skin conditioning

Beta-Glucan

Beta-Glucan

Characteristics

INCI
Beta-Glucan
CAS
26874-89-5
Functions
skin conditioning

Who it's for

Skin Type
▲ Dry ▲ Combination ▲ Normal ▲ Sensitive ▲ Acne-Prone
Face Concern
▲ Anti-Aging ▲ Hydration ▲ Barrier Repair ▲ Soothing ▲ Antioxidant
Body Concern
▲ Dryness ▲ Sensitivity
Hair Concern
▲ Hydration ▲ Scalp Health
Application Area
▲ Face ▲ Body ▲ Hair ▲ Scalp
beta-glucan is a polysaccharide consisting of b(1-3) linked glucose chains carrying b(1-6) linked glucose sidechains

Description

Beta-Glucan is a nice big molecule composed of many smaller sugar molecules (called polysaccharide). It’s in the cell walls of yeast, some mushrooms, seaweeds, and cereals.

It’s a real goodie no matter if you eat it or put it on your face. Eating it is anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, and even lowers blood cholesterol. 

Putting it on your face also does a bunch of good things: it‘s shown to have intensive skin repairing & wound healing properties, it’s a mild antioxidant, a greatskin soother, and moisturizer, and it even shows promising anti-aging benefits

The manufacturer of the ingredient did a published study with 27 people and examined the effect of 0.1% beta-glucan. They found that despite the large molecular size the smaller factions of beta-glucan penetrate into the skin, even into the dermis (the middle layer of the skin where wrinkles form). After 8 weeks there was a significant reduction of wrinkle depth and height and skin roughness has also improved greatly. 

Bottom line: Beta-glucan is a great ingredient, especially for sensitive or damaged skin. It soothes, moisturizes, and has some anti-aging magic properties. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Beta-Glucan

What does beta-glucan do in skincare?
In skincare, beta-glucan is mainly used as a humectant and skin-soothing ingredient. It helps attract and hold water, which can make skin feel more hydrated and look plumper. It’s also valued for helping calm the feel of stressed or irritated skin.
Is beta-glucan good for sensitive skin?
Beta-glucan is often well suited to sensitive skin because it is generally gentle and soothing. It can help reduce the feeling of dryness and discomfort without the sting that some stronger active ingredients can cause. As with any ingredient, a specific product formula matters too.
How does beta-glucan help keep skin hydrated?
Beta-glucan forms a lightweight, water-binding layer on the skin that helps reduce moisture loss. This can improve how soft and supple skin feels after application. It is often compared with hyaluronic acid because both are used to support hydration, though they work a bit differently.
Can beta-glucan help with irritated or damaged skin?
Beta-glucan is commonly included in products meant for compromised or irritated skin because of its soothing and barrier-supporting properties. It may help the skin feel less tight and more comfortable while it recovers. It is not a treatment for medical skin conditions, but it can be a supportive ingredient in gentle formulas.
Is beta-glucan the same in oat products and skincare products?
Beta-glucan is a type of polysaccharide found in oats, yeast, and some mushrooms, but the source and processing can differ. In skincare, it is usually isolated and purified for use in creams, serums, and lotions. Oat beta-glucan is especially common in cosmetic products because it is associated with soothing and hydrating benefits.

Evidence & Research on Beta-Glucan

Scientific publications & sources 2
  • 1
    Phytotherapy Research, , Volume 28 (2) – Oct 1, 2005, Skin Health Promotion Effects of Natural Beta‐Glucan Derived from Cereals and Microorganisms: A Review
  • 2
    International Journal of Cosmetic Science, , Volume 27 (5) – Oct 1, 2005, Anti‐Wrinkle Therapy: Significant New Findings in the Non‐Invasive Cosmetic Treatment of Skin Wrinkles with Beta‐Glucan

Products with Beta-Glucan (4 666 total)

Most often found in APLB products (117 items)

All 4 666 products →
Synonyms
(Avena Sativa Oat) Beta-Glucan (Oat) Beta-Glucan (Soluble Oat) Beta-Glucan (Vc)Beta-Glucan 1,3 Beta Glucan Avena Sativa (Oat) Beta-Glucan Avena Sativa Beta-Glucan B-Glucans Beta - Glucan Beta - Glucan (D) Beta -Glucan Beta – Glucan Beta ¿Glucan Beta Glucan Beta Glucan (Derived From Oats)*