Beta-Glucan is the New Star of Your Skincare Routine!

Becoming a die-hard Hyaluronic Acid fan is practically a rite of passage at this point for skincare enthusiasts. But, what if there was an even better version of this cult favorite ingredient? Introducing beta-glucan. This research backed ingredient has come into the spotlight by providing hydration, treating irritation, sensitive skin, and even eczema and anti aging benefits! Let’s uncover how to protect that skin barrier in 2021 by seeking out beta glucan skincare products.

What are Beta-Glucans?

According to Dendy Engelman, “Beta-glucans, written as β-glucans, are polysaccharides (multiple sugars, starch, cellulose bonded together) found in yeast, bacteria, fungi, seaweed, and grains like oats.”

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This powerful ingredient has shown to be helpful in many health conditions such as lowering high cholesterol, improve heart health, and boost the immune system. Further research shows how beta glucan aids in healing skin conditions such as eczema! Since these have been ingested through foods and supplements, skincare companies have learned to extract this powerful antioxidant and formulate it into moisturizers, serums and cleansers.

Next: How does Beta-Glucan Function in Skincare?

Overall, beta glucan in skincare functions as a humectant, meaning it draws moisture into the skin. It also works to repair the skin barrier. Our skin barrier is vital in keeping the skin healthy and balanced! When we over exfoliate, for example, the skin barrier becomes compromised. You need to revert back to a very gentle, calming routine to get the skin back to a hydrated, normal state. So, pick up those beta glucan skincare products because they work to cure your distressed skin and prevent skin conditions from worsening.

Also, humectants such as beta glucan and hyaluronic acid can be used by all skin types, as often as needed. Unlike other “actives” such as retinol, you can seek these ingredients and products out and use them daily in your routine immediately without risk of irritation.*

*patch testing is always advised with new skincare products

Beta-Glucan vs. Hyaluronic Acid

Dr. Zalka says beta glucan is “known to have as good or better skin humectant and plumping capacity as hyaluronic acid, [and they’re] high in antioxidants” (source). Some research has shown beta glucan to be 20% more hydrating than its comparative counterpart. So, as I already said…you most likely are a total hyaluronic acid junkie by now. Why not add in something potentially even better?! Check out this break down of these two viral ingredients:

Treating Various Skin Conditions

Beta-Glucan for Eczema

Eczema is a skin condition marked by dry, itchy, red, and cracked skin patches. Research has shown beta glucan to be a helpful treatment for eczema. Though this can be taken orally through food and supplements, try out a topical skincare product for instant relief and other skin health benefits, too!

Beta-Glucan for Aging

Although beta glucan has a large molecule size, studies show it does penetrate the skin through the intercellular matrix. This allows the powerful humectant to work on improving so many skin conditions- aging included! Beta glucan skincare products work to boost collagen production and form a film to shield against environmental stressors. It is also known as a powerful antioxidant that protects against UV damage, the main cause of wrinkles and fine lines.

Beta-Glucan for Sensitive and Compromised Skin

Is your skin barrier compromised? Meaning does it appear red, itchy, dry, tight, or unbalanced with breakouts? You definitely will benefit from a skin soother such as beta glucan. It calms compromised skin, improves moisture content, and locks all the good stuff in and keeps the bad bacteria out!

Beta-Glucan Skincare Products

Overall, the amazing beta glucan has been utilized in Korean skincare for quite a while. It is making its way into western skincare rapidly, but you can find so many choices on K-beauty sites such as Yesstyle. Use my rewards code TARATHEESTIE at checkout for extra money off!

Toner

Dear, Klairs Supple Preparation Toner

Serums & Moisturizers

Paula’s Choice Resist Super Antioxidant Serum

iunik Beta-Glucan Power Moisture Serum

iunik Beta-Glucan Daily Moisture Cream

Dear, Klairs Rich Moist Soothing Cream

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Mask

Ren Evercalm Ultra Comforting Rescue Mask

Wrap-Up

In conclusion, if you have not tried beta glucan skincare products yet, then what are you waiting for? Beta glucan for eczema, aging, sensitive, dry skin has been proven quite effective with little to no side effects. I will continue to follow up on continuing research with the star ingredient, but I am hoping to incorporate it into my daily routine asap. Have you tried beta glucan yet? Let me know your thoughts in the comments!

Thanks for reading! 🙂