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Beta-Glucan

What Beta-Glucan is & what it does

A soothing polysaccharide, usually from oats or yeast, that forms a hydrating film and helps calm the look of redness and sensitivity. It supports the skin barrier and leaves a comfortable, smoothed feel.

What is Beta-Glucan and what does it do in sunscreen?

Beta-Glucan is a soothing polysaccharide, usually sourced from oats or yeast, that acts as a humectant. In a sunscreen it forms a light, hydrating film that holds water against the skin and helps calm the look of redness and sensitivity. It supports the skin barrier and leaves a comfortable, smoothed feel, which makes it popular in formulas for sensitive skin.

Is Beta-Glucan safe?

Yes. Beta-Glucan is a gentle, well-tolerated ingredient widely used in soothing and sensitive-skin products. It works on the surface as a hydrating, skin-conditioning agent and is non-irritating for most people. It is often chosen specifically because it is so mild.

Does Beta-Glucan clog pores?

No. Beta-Glucan is a water-loving humectant rather than a heavy oil, so it is not considered pore-clogging. It is commonly recommended even for sensitive and breakout-prone skin because it hydrates and soothes without leaving a greasy residue.

Is Beta-Glucan good for sensitive skin?

Yes. Beta-Glucan is best known as a soothing ingredient that helps calm the look of redness and sensitivity while hydrating. It forms a comfortable film and supports the skin barrier, which is why it appears in many sunscreens and creams aimed at reactive or easily irritated skin.

Is Beta-Glucan natural?

Generally yes. Cosmetic Beta-Glucan is derived from natural sources such as oats, yeast, or mushrooms, then purified for skincare use. The finished ingredient is a refined natural polysaccharide rather than a raw extract.

Sunscreens with Beta-Glucan

We rate 103 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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