Beta-glucan the new star that is taking over hyaluronic acids job
Most of you are familiar with hyaluronic acids and how it locks in hydration and prevent moisture loss. So what if there is a new ingredient that does the same but 20 times better? Meet the new star ingredient beta-glucan.
What is Beta-glucan?
Beta-glucan is a sugar molecule. The molecule can be found in fungi, oats, seaweed and other grains. So you can ingest them in food, or they can be extracted and applied to your skin. Skincare products that contains these above mentioned ingredients will also provide some beta-glucan benefits.
Benefits of Beta-Glucan
In short beta-glucan minimize pores, visibly correct skin tone and deeply hydrates.
Hydrate & moisture
Beta-glucan is 20% more hydrating than hyaluronic acid at the same concentration. Not only being intense moisturizer beta-glucan also helps prevent moisture loss.
Anti-aging effects
When it comes to skin, beta-glucan is a collagen booster and as well as an immune booster, helping the skin ward off external aggressors and environmental pollutants and prevents loss of moisture.
Plumps skin
Despite its large size, the molecule is able to penetrate deep into the epidermis and plump up fine lines and wrinkles.
Repairs skin
Studies show that it helps in the treatment of dermatitis, eczema, bed sores, wounds, and burns. These reparative powers stem from the ingredient’s barrier-boosting function.
Boost Immunity
Beta-glucans work to fight off invading pathogens that can cause infections and stimulate other immune cells to attack pathogens. Hence, beta-glucan is suited to people who have dry, rough, or cracked skin. For those who have compromised skin barriers like eczema or dermatitis, beta-glucan can help fight virus and pathogens that pass through your skin barrier.
Why is Beta-Glucan not more commonly used in skincare?
The challenge has been the enormous cost to manufacture beta-glucan, but with new manufacturing technologies we will likely see this star ingredients in more skincare products in near future.
Hydrate you skin with the third generation beta-glucan skincare products!
By Annie Song