Humectant

Saccharide Isomerate

INCI name Saccharide Isomerate
Function Humectant
Pregnancy Suitable
UV sensitivity Not photosensitising

A plant-derived sugar complex whose structure closely resembles the carbohydrate fraction found naturally in the skin’s outer layer.

How it works

Unlike most humectants, saccharide isomerate binds to lysine residues in skin keratin, so it is not removed by a single rinse. Research associates it with lasting hydration of the outer skin layer between washes — the reason it appears even in rinse-off products.

Tolerability

Very well tolerated across skin types, with no photosensitising effect.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

No concerns are associated with topical use, and it is conventionally considered suitable.