Science
Mechanism of Action
Levan operates through a multifaceted mechanism: its varied molecular weights create a protective, breathable film on the skin's surface, effectively minimizing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and boosting deep hydration. Smaller molecular fractions are believed to facilitate the epidermal permeation of other active components. Furthermore, Levan actively promotes the proliferation of human keratinocytes and fibroblasts, contributing to skin regeneration and a more youthful appearance. It also exhibits tyrosinase inhibitory activity, which aids in reducing melanin production for potential skin brightening.
Research
Clinical Evidence
High confidence0.8%
Key findings
- 01 A double-blind clinical trial demonstrated that 1.6% Levan in a body cream yielded superior results for wrinkle improvement and consumer purchase intentions after one month, significantly outperforming 0.2% Hyaluronic Acid.
- 02 In another double-blind clinical trial, a synergistic blend of 0.8% Levan with 0.1% Hyaluronic Acid showed enhanced assessment results for wrinkle improvement and purchase intentions after one month, surpassing the performance of 0.2% Hyaluronic Acid alone.
- 03 Preclinical studies using a wrinkle model mouse indicated that Levan-based hydrogels provided enhanced anti-wrinkle efficacy when compared to hyaluronic acid hydrogels.
- 04 Incorporation of a high-concentration levan-rich extract in a shower gel significantly reduced its negative impact on skin (over 50% decrease in zein value) and improved skin hydration by reducing the emulsifying capacity of hydrophobic substances by over 40%.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The available research data does not indicate that this ingredient is commonly used at sub-efficacious concentrations or that a specific dusting threshold is a concern for its performance.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
This ingredient exhibits high solubility in water at room temperature, which increases with elevated temperatures. It maintains excellent stability across a pH range of 4.3 to 7.0, with typical formulations often targeting pH 5.5. It is suitable for both leave-on and rinse-off applications, preserving a neutral color in cosmetic products and demonstrating high biocompatibility with a wide array of other cosmetic ingredients. Levan can also function as an amphiphile, facilitating the formation of stable water-oil emulsions.
Synergies
- Hyaluronic Acid (demonstrated enhanced anti-wrinkle efficacy)
- General cosmetic ingredients (biocompatible and forms stable emulsions)
Safety
Safety Profile
Levan (the primary component) is dermatologically tested, proven suitable for sensitive skin, and non-irritable even at concentrations up to 10% in body cream formulations. It is recognized as a biodegradable, non-toxic, and highly biocompatible compound, showing no irritation to skin or eyes, no allergenic effects, and no cytotoxicity to human fibroblast cells or erythrocytes. The monosaccharide and disaccharide components (fructose, glucose, sucrose) have also been reviewed by CIR and deemed safe as dietary substances.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Levan/Fructose/Glucose/Sucrose is a valuable, multifunctional ingredient that offers significant hydration, anti-aging, barrier support, and soothing benefits across all skin types, underpinned by a robust safety profile and proven efficacy at precise concentrations.
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