Beta glucan is a complex sugar that can be derived from several natural sources, among them yeast, fungi, seaweed, and oats. It's most commonly used in skincare as a soothing agent, prized for calming redness and other markers of sensitive skin.
Its usefulness doesn't end there, though. Beta glucan also acts as an antioxidant and has been shown to visibly ease signs of aging and sun damage, including reduced wrinkle depth and improved texture and tone. Depending on which source it's derived from, some forms also offer film forming and moisture retaining properties.
Beta-Glucan References
Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, December 2018, pages 1,101-1,107 | International Journal of Molecular Sciences, September 2017, pages 1-48 | Phytotherapy Research, February 2014, pages 159-166 | Cosmetic Ingredient Review, October 2012, pages 1-52 | Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, February 2007, pages 167-170 | International Journal of Cosmetic Science, October 2005, page 292
Our team reviews ingredient research and uses up-to-date evidence to rate ingredients based on the categories below.
Best
Ingredients with the most rigorous and convincing evidence. These are the standouts backed by consistent findings across independent, peer reviewed clinical research.. When we call an ingredient Best, it has earned that distinction through genuine, reproducible proof that it improves skin.
Good
Reliable, well tolerated ingredients that do their job without complaint. They may not carry the headline benefits of a Best rated active, but they hydrate, stabilize a formula, or support the ingredients around them in ways that make a real difference in how a product performs and feels.
Average
Ingredients that are perfectly safe and serve a clear function, typically as an emollient, thickener, or filler, but do not offer any meaningful skin benefit beyond that basic job. Not a red flag, just not a reason to choose one product over another.
Bad/Worst
Ingredients with documented potential to irritate skin, disrupt the barrier, or trigger sensitization in some users, often synthetic fragrance, drying forms of alcohol, or certain essential oils. Not automatically a dealbreaker for every skin type, but worth knowing about before you commit to a product.
