Best For Skin Types
All, Dry, Sensitive
Addresses
Usage Frequency
Daily
What Is Xyloglucan?
Xyloglucan is a naturally occurring polysaccharide—a type of plant fibre—extracted from sources such as hazelnut skin and other plant materials. In skincare formulations, it functions primarily as a humectant, meaning it draws moisture into the skin and helps retain it at the surface.
What makes xyloglucan distinctive is its molecular structure, which resembles mucin (the slippery substance produced naturally by mucous membranes). This mucin-like quality gives it adhesive properties that allow it to form a protective layer on the skin, potentially supporting barrier function alongside its hydrating action.
How It Works
Xyloglucan works through two main mechanisms. As a humectant, its polysaccharide chains are hygroscopic—they attract and bind water molecules from both the air and deeper skin layers, drawing them towards the surface where they improve hydration and plumpness.
Additionally, because of its mucin-like structure, xyloglucan can adhere to the skin surface and form a thin, breathable protective film. This film may help reduce water loss through the outer layers of skin and provide a degree of protection against environmental stressors, making it particularly useful in formulations designed to support compromised or sensitive barriers.
Clinical Evidence & References
Research suggests xyloglucan shows promise for barrier support. In vitro studies have demonstrated that xyloglucan-containing formulations—particularly when combined with proteins like pea protein—may improve skin barrier permeability and help protect against barrier disruption. This makes it of particular interest for conditions characterised by barrier compromise, such as atopic dermatitis and psoriasis.
Evidence for its hydrating efficacy in cosmetic formulations is emerging, though clinical studies in human subjects remain limited. The ingredient has also been investigated in wound-healing contexts, where its biocompatibility and ability to support cellular environments show potential. More extensive in vivo studies on its cosmetic benefits would help establish its efficacy more definitively.
Published Research
How to Use
Xyloglucan is typically used in moisturisers, serums, and barrier-repair products. Because it functions as a humectant, it works best when applied to damp skin or used in formulations that contain occlusive ingredients (such as oils or butters) to seal in the hydration it draws to the skin. It is generally well-suited to layering with other hydrating or nourishing ingredients.
Safety & Precautions
Frequently Asked Questions
From the Clinic
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Wheat Amino Acids
A blend of amino acids from wheat protein Most often used in hair-care products as a conditioning agent
Whey Protein
Ingredient is a form of protein derived from milk Functions as a hair-conditioning and skin-softening agent
Xylitol
A sugar that may be plant-derived or lab-made
Xylose
A form of sugar Has hydrating properties for skin
Yeast Amino Acids
A humectant derived from yeast that draws moisture into the skin
zinc gluconate
The zinc salt of gluconic acid, a mild acid produced from the sugar glucose
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