Glycosyl Trehalose

What is Glycosyl Trehalose?

Glycosyl Trehalose is a carbohydrate derivative formed by enzymatically linking trehalose, a natural disaccharide from yeast or plants, with additional glucose units from starch sources. This results in a highly water-soluble ingredient prevalent in hydrating skincare like lotions, creams, and serums. In products, it works as a humectant by drawing atmospheric water to the skin's outer layer and holding it there, promoting a smoother feel. It stabilizes emulsions by reinforcing the mix of oil and water phases, preventing separation for a uniform texture. As a film former, it lays down a sheer layer that helps maintain the skin's moisture balance and shields against dryness. In pressed powders or sticks, its binding properties ensure durability and smooth application, making it versatile across product types while aligning with skin's natural barrier needs. (142 words)

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Binder
Helps hold solid ingredients together to form cohesive tablets, compacts, or sticks, improving pressability, integrity, and wear of the finished product.
Emulsion stabilizer
Improves emulsion robustness by preventing droplet coalescence and phase separation, often by thickening, structuring, or strengthening the interfacial layer.
Film former
Creates a continuous film on skin or hair to improve wear, water resistance, transfer resistance, shine, or hold in sunscreens, makeup, and styling products.
Humectant
Attracts and holds water in the stratum corneum, boosting hydration and plumpness; commonly used in moisturizers, cleansers, and hair conditioners.
Skin protecting
Forms a barrier to protect skin from external irritants.

Benefits

Draws and retains moisture on the skin for a plump, hydrated feel.

Creates a lightweight protective film to support the skin barrier.

Enhances formula stability for consistent product performance and texture.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
People with dry or dehydrated skin needing extra moisture attraction.
Those with known allergies to disaccharides or trehalose derivatives.
Individuals seeking gentle, non-greasy hydration in daily routines.
People experiencing irritation from humectant-heavy formulas.
Users of creamy or emulsified products wanting better wear and integrity.
Individuals preferring oil-free, non-film-forming ingredients.

Safety Notes

  • Regarded as safe for topical use in cosmetics with low hazard potential.
  • Non-comedogenic, unlikely to contribute to pore clogging.

Frequently Asked Questions about Glycosyl Trehalose

What makes Glycosyl Trehalose different from regular trehalose?

It features additional glucose links for better solubility and stability in water-based formulas.

Is Glycosyl Trehalose suitable for sensitive skin?

Yes, its gentle profile and skin-protecting action make it appropriate for delicate skin.

Can it help with product texture issues?

As a binder and stabilizer, it improves cohesion and prevents separation in formulations.