Schizophyllan

Schizophyllan is a high–molecular weight beta-glucan polysaccharide used mainly as a film-forming humectant/soothing polymer at low levels (typically well under a few percent) and is not pH-dependent or inherently exfoliating. Available safety and patch-test experience with similar beta-glucans suggests a low rate of irritation and good tolerability even in compromised skin, though rare hypersensitivity to fungal-derived polysaccharides can occur. Given the generally excellent tolerability but non-zero sensitization potential in highly reactive/atopic individuals, a very gentle score is most consistent with patient-safety benchmarking. Safety Notes: Schizophyllan (a high-molecular-weight beta-glucan polysaccharide) is used in commercial skincare primarily as a film-forming, soothing, and hydration-support polymer, often at very low levels (around 0.0005–0.05%) in leave-on serums/creams where it functions as a sensorial and barrier-support additive alongside humectants. More dedicated “beta-glucan/schizophyllan” soothing or post-procedure-style OTC products and some concentrated gel/serum formats push into the 0.1–0.5% range, with the highest consumer-available formulations observed around ~1.0% (higher levels are limited by viscosity/texture, potential tack, and raw material cost rather than specific cosmetic-regulatory caps). Rinse-off use is less common and typically lower than leave-on because contact time is brief and high polymer levels can negatively impact foaming and rinse feel.