It not only has excellent moisturizing effects, but also shows powerful effects in anti-oxidation, repairing skin barriers, anti-inflammatory and anti-aging.
About polysaccharides
Polysaccharides are high molecular weight compounds formed by multiple monosaccharide molecules connected by glycosidic bonds, and are widely found in plants, animals and microorganisms. It is one of the four basic substances that constitute life activities, and is listed as the basic substance of life along with proteins, lipids and nucleic acids. The structure of polysaccharides is complex and diverse, and the polyhydroxy structure on the molecular chain gives it a variety of biological activities.
Classification of polysaccharides According to the source: they can be divided into plant polysaccharides (such as Tremella polysaccharides), animal polysaccharides (such as hyaluronic acid), microbial polysaccharides (such as β-glucan) and artificially synthesized polysaccharides.
According to the structure: they can be divided into homopolysaccharides (composed of the same monosaccharides) and heteropolysaccharides (composed of different monosaccharides). Homopolysaccharides have high biological value, stable performance, and are easier to evaluate efficacy.
Effects of polysaccharides in skin care
Moisturizing raw materials: lock in moisture, long-lasting moisturizing
Polysaccharides contain a large number of hydroxyl groups in their molecules, which can form hydrogen bonds with water molecules, thereby forming a water-retaining film on the skin surface to prevent moisture loss.
Common moisturizing polysaccharides include hyaluronic acid (hyaluronic acid) and Tremella polysaccharide. Hyaluronic acid has a super moisturizing ability, while Tremella polysaccharide is known as "plant-derived hyaluronic acid" because of its excellent moisturizing and lubricating properties.
Anti-oxidant raw material: delay aging
The reducing hydroxyl groups in the polysaccharide structure can capture free radicals and reduce lipid peroxidation, thereby delaying skin aging. For example, ingredients such as β-glucan and astragalus polysaccharide can effectively remove reactive oxygen species (ROS), alleviate oxidative damage, and help the skin stay young.
Repair skin barrier: promote cell regeneration
Polysaccharides can activate cell growth factors, promote the proliferation and differentiation of fibroblasts and epidermal cells, and thus accelerate skin repair. For example, fucoidan can promote the proliferation of fibroblasts and help repair damaged skin tissue.
Anti-inflammatory and soothing: Improve sensitive skin
Polysaccharides have a broad spectrum of antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, which can inhibit bacterial growth and reduce skin inflammatory reactions. For example, chitosan and trehalose can effectively relieve the discomfort of sensitive skin and help the skin return to a healthy state.
Promote microcirculation: Improve skin metabolism
Some polysaccharide derivatives have anticoagulant and thrombolytic effects, which can promote skin microcirculation and accelerate the absorption and metabolism of nutrients. For example, dextran can activate immune cells, promote pigment metabolism, and improve skin inflammation.
Common polysaccharide ingredients and their effects
Hyaluronic acid (hyaluronic acid)
Effects: Super moisturizing, the smaller the molecular weight, the easier it is to be absorbed through the skin.
Applicable to: Dry, dehydrated skin.
β-Glucan
Effects: Immunomodulation, skin repair, antibacterial.
Applicable to: Sensitive skin, damaged skin.
Chitosan
Effects: Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, barrier repair.
Applicable to: Acne skin, sensitive skin.
Trehalose
Effects: Moisturizing and locking water, anti-radiation, anti-inflammatory and soothing.
Applicable to: Sensitive skin, damaged skin.
Agarose
Effects: Dermal filling, skin repair.
Applicable to: Anti-aging, wrinkle repair
Future trends of polysaccharides in skin care
With the continuous development of skin care technology, the application prospects of polysaccharides are becoming more and more broad. In the future, polysaccharide materials will show greater potential in the following aspects:
Technological innovation
With the in-depth study of polysaccharide structure, new sugar chain structures and functions will be revealed, and the application of polysaccharides will be more diversified. For example, as a polysaccharide with immunomodulatory ability, schizophyllan can help the skin improve tolerance and reduce sensitive reactions.
Personalized skin care
Different skin problems require different polysaccharide materials. For example, chitosan can be used for acne skin, while hyaluronic acid can be selected for dry skin. In the future, skin care products will pay more attention to personalized customization to meet the needs of different skin types.
Enhanced safety
Polysaccharides are relatively safe and have been supported by complete safety data. As consumers' requirements for the safety of skin care products increase, polysaccharides will become the preferred ingredient for more brands.
As a natural bioactive macromolecule, polysaccharides show multiple functions in the field of skin care. It can not only moisturize and resist oxidation, but also repair the skin barrier, relieve inflammation and even promote skin microcirculation. With the advancement of technology, polysaccharides will be used more widely and become an indispensable "invisible guardian" in skin care products.