Beta-Glucan

Beta-glucan is a polysaccharide humectant/soothing agent typically used around ~0.1–1% (sometimes higher) to support barrier function and reduce visible redness, and it is generally well-tolerated in sensitive and compromised skin. Clinical use and patch testing data indicate a very low rate of irritation or sensitization, with reactions usually attributable to source impurities (e.g., oat/yeast-derived contaminants) rather than the beta-glucan itself. Given the rare but possible reactivity in highly atopic individuals and the need for conservative safety scoring, it fits best as very gentle rather than fully inert. Safety Notes: In commercial skincare, beta-glucan is commonly used as a soothing/humectant active at very low levels (around 0.01–0.1%) in multi-ingredient creams, serums, and cleansers where it functions as a supportive claim ingredient. Most leave-on products cluster around ~0.1–1%, while a smaller set of consumer-available “high-strength” calming/repair serums, ampoules, and gel concentrates reach ~2–5% depending on beta-glucan grade/solids content and viscosity constraints; rinse-off formats are typically on the lower end due to brief contact time. There is no specific EU/FDA maximum for beta-glucan in cosmetics, so practical formulation/stability and sensory limits (tack/gelation, clarity, microbial risk management) usually define the upper bound in OTC products.