Science
Mechanism of Action
FAEX BETA-GLUCAN, derived from yeast, operates by engaging with the skin's immune cells, including macrophages and Langerhans cells, thereby amplifying the skin's natural defense mechanisms against environmental stressors, pathogens, and inflammatory responses. It significantly boosts collagen synthesis, which in turn refines skin texture, mitigates the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and enhances overall skin elasticity and firmness. Functioning as a potent natural humectant, it efficiently attracts and retains moisture within the skin, ensuring superior hydration and reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Furthermore, its intensive skin-repairing and wound-healing capabilities are driven by the stimulation of collagen production and the promotion of keratinocyte proliferation and migration. It also offers mild antioxidant protection by scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) and modulating the skin's intrinsic antioxidant system. The ingredient provides notable skin-soothing effects, effectively reducing redness and irritation, while strengthening the epidermal moisture barrier and offering UV-protective and anti-aging benefits through enhanced dermal fibroblast activity.
Research
Clinical Evidence
High confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 Demonstrated a significant reduction in wrinkle depth, height, and skin roughness after 8 weeks of application.
- 02 Achieved a significant reduction in both itching and the severity of eczema in patients suffering from atopic dermatitis.
- 03 Enhanced the stratum corneum's water retention capacity and notably improved skin barrier function in participants with sensitive skin.
- 04 Led to significant improvements in skin firmness and hydration, particularly in men showing visible signs of skin aging.
- 05 Resulted in a significant reduction of skin reactions at the treatment site in cases of allergic contact dermatitis.
- 06 Alleviated erythema within 24 hours following UV exposure and, after 30 days of use, improved skin hydration, brightness, elasticity, and antioxidant capacity.
- 07 Promoted epithelial proliferation and repair in venous ulcers, with an average ulcer area reduction of 55.23% after 90 days. For diabetic foot ulcers, it demonstrated a 44% healing rate at Week 8, compared to 17% for placebo, with a tendency for shorter healing times.
- 08 Significantly improved hemoglobin indices, skin hydration, and reduced transepidermal water loss when incorporated into post-laser treatment regimens for facial acne scars.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
While some studies indicate significant wrinkle reduction at concentrations as low as 0.1%, other key benefits, such as robust barrier function enhancement, require concentrations up to 2%. Therefore, formulations incorporating FAEX BETA-GLUCAN below 0.1% might be considered ineffective for certain claims, with anything below 0.05% being a strong indicator of cosmetic dusting for most functional benefits.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Beta-glucan exhibits good stability in aqueous solutions. Its solubility and specific properties can be further optimized through processes like acid hydrolysis and other chemical modifications. Extracts have been noted to maintain stability within a pH range of 4.5 to 6.5 during processing.
Safety
Safety Profile
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has concluded that microbial polysaccharide gums, including beta-glucan, are safe for use in cosmetics at current concentrations, with a maximum concentration of 2%. Specifically, sodium carboxymethyl beta-glucan has been shown not to be an irritant or sensitizer in human studies, and a 2% aqueous solution demonstrated no photosensitizing effects. The United States FDA affirms Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the source of FAEX BETA-GLUCAN, as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for food applications. While generally well-tolerated topically for short periods, a minor incidence of skin rash has been reported in some individuals.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
FAEX BETA-GLUCAN is an essential, multi-functional ingredient due to its proven efficacy across all skin types, offering significant benefits in skin repair, barrier reinforcement, deep hydration, and comprehensive anti-aging.
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