Ingredient guides
What Does Beta-Glucan Do in Skincare?
Beta-glucan has become one of the most respected barrier-support ingredients in modern skincare formulation.
Known for its soothing profile and hydration-supportive properties, beta-glucan is commonly used in formulations designed for dry, compromised, or sensitive-feeling skin.
While often compared to hyaluronic acid, beta-glucan offers a broader formulation profile that extends beyond hydration alone.
In this guide, we’ll explore what beta-glucan is, how it functions in skincare formulations, and why formulators increasingly include it in barrier-focused systems.
What is beta-glucan?
Beta-glucan is a polysaccharide naturally derived from sources such as oats, yeast, mushrooms, and grains.
In cosmetic formulation, oat-derived beta-glucan is especially popular due to its skin-soothing and hydration-supportive profile.
Beta-glucan is typically used in water-based systems including serums, gels, lotions, and calming formulations.
Why formulators use beta-glucan
Beta-glucan helps support hydration, improve skin feel, and contribute to more comfortable-feeling skincare systems.
What does beta-glucan do in skincare?
Hydration support
Beta-glucan functions as a film-forming humectant that helps support water retention within the skin surface.
Unlike some highly active hydration systems, beta-glucan is often valued for its softer, more cushioning sensory profile.
Texture and sensory feel
Beta-glucan can also improve formula elegance by contributing softness and slip within water-based systems.
This makes it useful in lightweight serums and calming gel systems.
Typical use levels
Typical use level
Beta-glucan is commonly used between 0.1% and 1%, depending on the material format and formulation goals.
Formulation considerations
Water phase compatibility
Beta-glucan is generally incorporated into the water phase of cosmetic formulations.
Some formats require pre-dispersion or gradual hydration to minimise clumping.
Viscosity impact
Depending on concentration and grade, beta-glucan may slightly influence viscosity and sensory feel.
Formulators often pair it with gums or lightweight gel systems for improved texture control.
Compatibility with other ingredients
Beta-glucan works particularly well in hydration-focused systems alongside:
Best products to formulate with beta-glucan
- Hydrating serums
- Barrier-support creams
- Calming facial mists
- After-sun products
- Sensitive-skin formulations
Common beginner mistakes
- Adding powders too quickly to water
- Using excessive levels that create draggy textures
- Ignoring preservative compatibility
- Not allowing full hydration time
Final thoughts
Beta-glucan is one of the most versatile ingredients in modern barrier-focused skincare formulation. Its combination of hydration support, elegant skin feel, and calming formulation compatibility makes it highly valuable in contemporary cosmetic systems.
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