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Cyclodextrin

What Cyclodextrin is & what it does

Cyclodextrin is a ring-shaped molecule built from linked glucose units, typically produced from starch by enzymatic conversion. In cosmetic and sunscreen formulas it acts as a carrier that can trap small guest molecules inside its cavity, which helps stabilize fragrances or actives and can reduce unwanted odors. A notable property is this cavity structure, which lets it form inclusion complexes and improve the solubility or staying power of certain ingredients.

Is Cyclodextrin safe?

Cyclodextrin is widely used in cosmetics and is generally regarded as safe at the levels used in skincare and sunscreen formulas. It is a starch-derived ring molecule used to trap and stabilize other ingredients rather than to penetrate the skin. As with any ingredient, individual sensitivities are possible, so patch testing is reasonable if you have reactive skin.

What does Cyclodextrin do in skincare?

Cyclodextrin works as a carrier and stabilizer in skincare. Its ring shape has a central cavity that can trap small guest molecules, which helps stabilize fragrances or actives, improve their solubility, and sometimes reduce unwanted odors. This makes it useful for keeping a formula consistent and helping deliver certain ingredients.

Is Cyclodextrin natural or synthetic?

Cyclodextrin is usually described as nature-derived but processed. It is made from starch, a natural plant material, through enzymatic conversion that links glucose units into a ring. So while its raw source is natural, the final ingredient is the result of controlled processing.

Sunscreens with Cyclodextrin

We rate 36 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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