Honestly, when we think of hydrating ingredients, nothing can truly beat our love for hyaluronic acid. Well, you can’t blame us! With its cult favourite status and efficacy that is beyond our minds, it is definitely at the top of the list. But what if we told you that something new is about to take the crown? Indeed, it is mind-blowing, right? Enter beta glucan. Okay, it is still underrated by some people. However, true beauty junkies would know that this wonder ingredient deserves the first spot and it is all for the right reasons.

So, what exactly is beta glucan? Where did it come from? We know that all of you beauties have all sorts of questions on your mind right now. Fret not, we have all the essential details that you have been dying to know. In fact, you might be surprised that you’ll ditch hyaluronic acid for good! Below, Beauty Insider has gathered all the info that you need to know about this next big thing. You might want to take note, beauties!

Brief Information

What is the main benefit?

It delivers intense hydration to the skin and fortifies the skin’s protective barrier

Who should use it?

This ingredient is suitable for those who want to boost the skin moisture level and it is ideal for all different skin types

How to use it?

As it is known for its hydrating and soothing properties, you can easily use it with other ingredients like retinol and even sunscreen. It is so gentle that you can even use it on a daily basis

What is Beta Glucan?

We’ve come to the real question that everyone wants to know. What the heck is beta glucan? Indeed, it is normal to ask such a question since people have raved about it more than hyaluronic acid. Beta glucan is an ingredient that can be found naturally in oats, yeast, seaweed, fungi, and bacteria. It is a type of polysaccharide or commonly known as complex sugar. 

They are added to the skincare formulation for their benefits and effectiveness. Previous studies have shown that beta glucan can significantly reverse the signs of ageing and smoother the skin. It is also packed with antioxidant properties. Additionally, this ingredient delivers intense hydration to the skin, making it the go-to ingredient for those with dry and parched skin. Beauty companies also usually use this ingredient, especially for products to soothe inflammation or redness. The rate of absorbency of beta glucan is quite astounding as it is able to pass through the skin and cells.

What are the Benefits of Beta Glucan?

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Beta glucan has been compared to hyaluronic acid, and that really says it all. However, some people still feel sceptical and they don’t recognise its ability to the extent that it can replace hyaluronic acid. Regardless of that, it should be known that such an ingredient delivers wonderful benefits to the skin. So, do you feel tempted to try out products with beta glucan now?

  • Protects the skin from damage
  • Boosts hydration level
  • Fortifies the skin’s barrier
  • Promotes plumper-looking skin
  • Reverse the signs of ageing like fine lines and wrinkles
  • Softens and smooths out the skin
  • Soothes irritation and inflammation
  • Promotes wound healing
  • Packed with antioxidants

What are the Side Effects of Beta Glucan?

So, is it really all sunshine and rainbows when it comes to beta glucan? As the ingredient is known for its gentle and mild potency, it is suitable for all skin types. In fact, you don’t even have to think twice if you have sensitive skin. With that, there are no skin reactions that have been linked with the usage of beta glucan. However, make sure to do a patch test whenever you try out a new skincare product. 

Products that are Formulated with Beta Glucan

57N Birch Water & Beta Glucan Barrier Cream

57N Birch Water & Beta Glucan Barrier Cream is a fan favourite product that you need to try out asap! It contains a powerful blend of birch water and beta glucan to improve the overall complexion. It penetrates deeply into the skin, leaving you with flawless looking skin. This cream also delivers intense hydration without leaving any greasy residues. With just one application you will see visible differences.

Why we love it:

  • Protects the skin
  • Delivers intense hydration
  • High quality ingredients

Price: $44.30

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Dear, Klairs Rich Moist Soothing Cream

Dear, Klairs Rich Moist Soothing Cream is the next product on the list is known by many for its superb efficacy. It contains all the skin-loving ingredients that you need including beta glucan extracted from the yeast. It features a luxurious creamy texture that easily absorbs into the skin. Plus, it also helps to fortify the skin’s protective barrier.

Why we love it:

  • Clean ingredients
  • Soothing properties
  • Hydrates the skin

Price: $30.90 (Original price $32.90)

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Farmskin Nourishing Hand Mask Fresh Food For Skin Set

Your hands deserve equal love too! The Farmskin Nourishing Hand Mask Fresh Food For Skin Set is the ultimate secret to soft and smooth skin. It features hydrating and nourishing ingredients like mango, beta glucan, ceramide NP, and kelp. This hand mask helps to deliver long lasting hydration to the skin. Plus, you will also notice that it softens all the rough patches instantly.

Why we love it:

  • Softens the skin
  • Pleasant scent
  • Long lasting hydration

Price: $24.90

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Dr.Jart+ Ceramidin Serum

Dr.Jart+ Ceramidin Serum harnesses the power of ceramide to deeply hydrate the skin, preventing dryness and tightness. Aside from strengthening the skin’s protective barrier, it also stimulates the skin’s ceramide production for optimal results. With its ultra-lightweight texture, the serum penetrates deep into the skin without leaving any greasy residue.

Why we love it:

  • Ideal for all skin types
  • Delivers deep hydration
  • Controls acne

Price: $53.00

Where to buy: Sephora

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