Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate

Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate is a sugar-alcohol humectant/emollient blend used to improve moisturization and texture, typically at a few percent up to higher levels in leave-on products. It is generally well-tolerated and not a common irritant in patch testing, but like other polyols it can occasionally sting or feel irritating on severely compromised barriers (e.g., active eczema or post-procedure skin), especially in higher-load formulas. Given that small but real reactivity can occur in highly sensitive patients, it fits best as very gentle rather than fully inert. Safety Notes: Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate is used primarily as a humectant/sugar-alcohol blend and sensory modifier, and in many commercial leave-on products (lotions, serums, sunscreens, makeup) it appears at low supporting levels around 0.1–2% to boost moisturization and slip. In richer moisturizers, barrier creams, hand creams, and some “waterless” balm/cream formats it is used much higher as a major polyol/humectant phase component, with consumer-available products reaching roughly 10–25% while maintaining stability and acceptable tack. Rinse-off cleansers and shampoos typically sit on the lower end (about 0.1–5%) due to cost and diminishing benefit with short contact time.