Saccharide Isomerate

What it is

Saccharide isomerate is a carbohydrate complex derived from plant sugars, formulated to resemble the sugar fraction of the skin's own natural moisturising factor. Unlike simple humectants that sit on the surface, it is designed to attach to keratin in the outer skin layer, so its hydrating effect persists through washing.

What it does well

• Provides hydration that lasts longer than typical humectants

  The substantivity claim, that it binds to skin and keeps working after rinsing, is plausible and widely repeated, but the supporting data comes largely from the ingredient supplier rather than independent published trials.

  Limited evidence

Worth knowing

• Evidence is mostly supplier-generated

  There is little independent peer-reviewed literature on this ingredient. It appears well tolerated, but the marketing claims outpace the public evidence.

  Matters most toAnyone choosing a product specifically for this ingredient.

Where the EU stands