Science
Mechanism of Action
This ingredient operates through multiple pathways to improve skin vitality. As an oxidized derivative, it directly functions as an abrasive, anti-seborrheic, antimicrobial, and deodorant agent, alongside conditioning the skin. More broadly, it leverages the established mechanisms of Beta-Glucan: initiating immunomodulation and exerting anti-inflammatory effects by modulating cytokine responses. It provides antioxidant protection by scavenging reactive oxygen species and regulating oxidative stress pathways. Furthermore, Oxidized Beta-Glucan aids in barrier repair by restoring skin integrity, promoting the synthesis of crucial proteins like filaggrin, loricrin, claudin-1, and β-catenin, and stimulating lipid production. Its humectant properties ensure skin moisturization by forming a protective film to reduce transepidermal water loss, and it stimulates collagen production and fibroblast activity, contributing to anti-aging benefits and supporting wound healing processes. Additionally, it exhibits antimicrobial efficacy against various bacteria and fungi.
Research
Clinical Evidence
High confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 Demonstrated significant reduction of wrinkle depth and height, alongside improved skin roughness, in a study with 27 participants over 8 weeks.
- 02 Achieved deep penetration into both the epidermis and dermis of human abdominal skin.
- 03 Enhanced the water retention capacity of the stratum corneum and improved skin barrier function in participants with sensitive skin over 6 weeks, with no observed erythema.
- 04 Delivered significant improvements in skin firmness and hydration in men showing signs of skin aging over a 16-week period.
- 05 Increased skin humidity from 42.8% to 49.0% and exhibited no primary irritation in a 2-week closed patch test on 15 female volunteers.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
Oxidized Beta-Glucan is a multi-functional ingredient with well-documented benefits across various concentrations, including anti-aging, hydration, barrier repair, and soothing properties, making it a genuinely effective active rather than a 'dusted' ingredient for marketing claims.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Beta-Glucan derivatives are generally stable within a wide pH range of 3.0 to 11.0. However, they can be prone to degradation when exposed to strong oxidizing agents like ascorbic acid, which may lead to chain cleavage and carbonyl group formation. Notably, hydrogen peroxide treatment of yeast glucans has been shown to improve both solubility and antioxidant activity.
Conflicts
- strong oxidizing agents (e.g., ascorbic acid)
Safety
Safety Profile
Oxidized Beta-Glucan is included in the CIR safety assessment of microbial polysaccharide gums and concluded to be safe for use in cosmetic formulations in current practices of use and concentration. It is generally recognized as non-toxic, non-irritating, non-sensitizing, and non-comedogenic.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Oxidized Beta-Glucan is a valuable, multifunctional ingredient that offers extensive benefits for diverse skin types, significantly enhancing skin barrier integrity, hydration, and overall youthful appearance with a strong safety profile.
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