Inulin

Inulin is a high–molecular weight plant-derived polysaccharide used mainly as a prebiotic/humectant or skin-conditioning agent, typically at low-to-moderate percentages, and it is not pH-dependent or intrinsically reactive. In clinical and consumer use it is generally well tolerated with low irritancy, but as a botanical-derived polymer it can rarely trigger stinging or contact reactions in highly reactive/eczema-prone individuals (especially on compromised skin), so it is best classified as very gentle rather than inert. Safety Notes: Inulin is used commercially as a prebiotic/humectant/skin-feel modifier, commonly appearing at low levels (~0.05–0.5%) in leave-on moisturizers, serums, and toners as part of a microbiome-support or moisturizing complex. In rinse-off cleansers and many leave-on products it more typically sits around 0.5–3% for noticeable conditioning and sensory benefits. High-strength consumer-available “prebiotic” masks, barrier creams, and anhydrous-to-emulsion balms can reach ~5–10%, with practical upper limits driven by solubility/viscosity, potential tackiness, and formula stability rather than specific regulatory caps.