Best For Skin Types
All skin types
Usage Frequency
As directed on product packaging
EWG Safety Score
What Is Alpha-Glucan?
Alpha-glucan (α-glucan) is a polysaccharide with a diverse range of properties that allow it to serve a variety of roles in skin care formulations including chelating agent, bulking agent, prebiotic, and humectant. Studies also suggest alpha-glucan possesses antioxidant potential.
Worth noting, alpha-glucan’s molecular structure allows it to enhance the delivery of other ingredients in a formulation. This means that other beneficial substances in the product can penetrate deeper into the skin, potentially increasing their effectiveness and maximizing their impact.
Alpha-glucan may be derived from natural sources such as fungi (think mushrooms). While alpha-glucan offers prebiotic benefits when applied topically to the skin, it does not have the same effect when ingested. Due to its large size, alpha-glucan cannot be fermented by gut bacteria; instead, it passes through the digestive system as insoluble fiber.
Note: Skin-specific benefits of alpha-glucan have not been as extensively researched as other glucans such as beta-glucan and alpha-glucan oligosaccharide (a popular skin care ingredient derived from alpha-glucan, though the two offer different properties/benefits). You can learn more about those ingredients via their individual entries.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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Aloe vera: A review of toxicity and adverse clinical effects Journal of Environmental Science and Health, 2016
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Aloe vera in dermatology: A brief review Giornale Italiano di Dermatologia e Venereologia, 2009
Frequently Asked Questions
From the Clinic
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Aloe Barbadensis Sprout
Early-stage aloe extract that hydrates and conditions skin
Aloe Maculata Leaf Water
A plant-derived humectant that draws moisture into the skin
Aloe Vera Vesicles
Plant-derived nanovesicles from aloe vera with antioxidant and calming properties
Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide-1
A gentle humectant that draws moisture into the skin and supports hydration
Althaea Rosea Root Extract
A plant-derived humectant that helps skin retain moisture
Aluminum Hydroxide
Found naturally in certain minerals | Opacifying agent, skin protectant, and absorbent
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