Is beta-glucan good for the skin?

Skincare products derive the majority of benefits from their formulations, which is why it’s so essential to not just look at what is currently in the market (Think heavy hitters like retinol, hyaluronic acid, and Vitamin C), but also dive into skincare ingredients which are yet to hit the spotlight. The key example is Oat Beta Glucan.

Oat Beta-Glucan is a skincare ingredient that has been gaining popularity lately, despite being much less known than other popular counterparts such as retinol, hyaluronic acid, salicylic acid and more.

What is Oat Beta-Glucan?

Oat Beta-glucan is a type of soluble fibre found primarily in the cell walls of oats. As a soluble fibre, it dissolves in water and is digestible – creating a gel-like substance that coats the digestive system.

The type of beta-glucan that is effective at lowering cholesterol can only be found in barley and oats, with barley providing the highest concentration of beta-glucan by volume. If you’ve ever noticed the sticky texture of oatmeal, it’s the beta-glucan that creates that texture.

What are Beta-Glucans In Skincare?

Beta Glucans, also known as β- Glucans are naturally occurring polysaccharides that are typically derived from the cell walls of yeast, fungi & cereals such as oats & grain.

More commonly known in the cosmetics industry for its repairing & anti redness properties, Beta Glucans are gaining traction within the skincare community and for good reason! This game changing ingredient hosts a variety of skin loving benefits that will have your skin looking it’s healthiest yet.

Despite its large molecular weight, Beta Glucans have the ability to enter the skin’s stratum corneum and epidermis and penetrate deeply into the dermis as they are made up of smaller sugar molecules.

 

 

Benefits of Oat Beta Glucan for Skin

Oat Beta glucan is quite a versatile skincare ingredient that can deliver several advantages for a wide range of skin types. Here’s a brief overview of the main benefits of beta glucan for skin:

Intense Hydration: Beta glucan is known for its exceptional moisture-retaining properties. Studies suggest it can hold more water than even hyaluronic acid. This makes it a potent option for those with dehydrated or flaky skin looking to replenish lost moisture.

Barrier Support: Your skin’s barrier is crucial for keeping out pollutants and irritants while keeping moisture in. Beta glucan helps fortify this protective layer, which can lessen the impact of environmental stressors like harsh weather or pollution.

Calming & Soothing: Beta glucan’s soothing properties can help with redness or sensitivity. As such, beta glucan may help calm reactive skin in conditions like rosacea or eczema.

Youthful Glow: A well-hydrated complexion generally looks plumper, more elastic and radiant. By improving moisture levels and skin regeneration, beta glucan can also help soften fine lines over time.

 

Who Might Benefit from Beta Glucan Skincare?

Beta glucan is generally well-tolerated and its benefits are quite widely applicable. However, it is particularly great for the following skin types:

Dry or Dehydrated: Regular use of beta glucan can help replenish and lock in moisture. This helps reduce flakiness and tightness making skin look fresher and less dull.

Sensitive or Irritated: Beta glucan’s anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe redness, itching or discomfort.

Mature: The hydrating effects of beta glucan helps make teh skin look plumper and more elastic. This helps soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. You can magnify this effect by pairing beta glucan with other anti-ageing ingredients.

Combination or Normal: Even if your skin isn’t overly dry or sensitive, using beta glucan skincare can help keep your complexion balanced and well-protected.

 

 

How to Use Beta Glucan in Your Skincare Routine

Beta glucan is exceptionally versatile and you can find it in a wide range of skincare products. Here are our top tips for the best way to use beta glucan skincare:

Cleansers: Starting your routine with a beta glucan cleanser can help clean your skin without drying it out. It is a great option if you have very dry or sensitive skin.

 

 

Serums, Essences & Toners: These are lightweight solutions that you apply and leave on after cleansing. They’re a good way to introduce beta glucan if you don’t want to change the rest of your skincare routine or if you have sensitive skin and want to gradually try it as a separate product to control the frequency and amount you use.

Moisturisers: If you’re dealing with dryness, flakiness or a compromised barrier then a beta glucan moisturiser is the easiest way to deliver consistent hydration throughout the day or night.

Face Masks: Beta glucan face masks are useful for more intense boost of hydration. They’re great if your skin feels particularly dry or following an irritating treatment such as chemical peels, laser or microneedling.

 

 

Timing & Consistency: You can use beta glucan products at any time and several times a day. In the day, beta glucan can help reinforce the skin barrier to protect against environmental stressors. At night, beta glucan provides hydration and reduces water loss whilst your skin turns over and repairs at night.

Layer Mindfully: As in the above section, beta glucan works great with other hydrators such as hyaluronic acid to moisturise and repair the skin. It is also helps reduce irritation and dryness following actives like exfoliating acids, Vitamin C and Retinoids.

 

 

Conclusion

As you can see oat beta glucan is an unsung powerhouse skincare ingredient. It has superior moisture retention and can support your skin barrier and soothe irritated skin. Beta glucan is a great addition to your skincare routine if you have dry, ageing or sensitive skin. With time and consistent use it it can help hydrate, plump up, brighten and smooth your skin. Beta glucan also works great with other popular hydrators and anti-ageing skincare ingredients allowing you to amplify their benefits.

 

References

Sousa P, Tavares-Valente D, Amorim M, Azevedo-Silva J, Pintado M, Fernandes J. β-Glucan extracts as high-value multifunctional ingredients for skin health: A review. Carbohydr Polym. 2023 Dec 15;322:121329. doi: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2023.121329. Epub 2023 Aug 23. PMID: 37839841.

Michalska-Sionkowska M, Warżyńska O, Kaczmarek-Szczepańska B, Łukowicz K, Osyczka AM, Walczak M. Preparation and Characterization of Fish Skin Collagen Material Modified with β-Glucan as Potential Wound Dressing. Materials (Basel). 2021 Mar 10;14(6):1322. doi: 10.3390/ma14061322. PMID: 33801809; PMCID: PMC8000014.

John HE, Price RD. Perspectives in the selection of hyaluronic acid fillers for facial wrinkles and aging skin. Patient Prefer Adherence. 2009;3:225-230. doi:10.2147/ppa.s3183

Pillai R, Redmond M, Roding J. Anti-wrinkle therapy: Significant new findings in the non-invasive cosmetic treatment of skin wrinkles with beta-glucan. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2005;27(5):292-292. doi:10.1111/j.1463-1318.2005.00268_3.x