Galactoarabinan

Galactoarabinan is a high–molecular weight polysaccharide film-former/humectant typically used around ~0.1–3% to improve texture, hydration, and reduce TEWL; it is not pH-dependent and is generally non-stinging. Clinical and patch-test experience with similar plant-derived gums shows a very low rate of irritation, but in highly reactive/eczema-prone skin there is still a small risk of transient itching or contact reactions due to botanical sourcing/trace impurities, so it is scored as very gentle rather than inert. Safety Notes: In commercial skincare, galactoarabinan (a larch-derived polysaccharide used as a film former, humectant, and mild exfoliation-support/polymer) is most often included at low levels (~0.05–0.5%) in leave-on moisturizers, serums, and anti-aging products to improve feel and hydration without tack. Higher-strength consumer products marketed for smoothing/brightening, barrier support, or ‘micro-peel’ style benefits (typically leave-on gels/creams, occasionally masks) can reach ~2–5%, with practical upper limits driven by viscosity/build, sensory tack, and stability/solubility; rinse-off products generally sit toward the low-to-mid end because contact time is short.