Rate My SPF

Galactoarabinan

What Galactoarabinan is & what it does

Galactoarabinan is a plant polysaccharide, a sugar-based polymer most often extracted from the larch tree. On the skin it works as a humectant and light film-former: it helps attract and hold water and can leave a smooth, even feel as the product dries. In a sunscreen it supports hydration and the way the formula spreads and sits, while contributing to a lightweight finish.

What is Galactoarabinan and what does it do in sunscreen?

Galactoarabinan is a natural sugar polymer, typically sourced from the larch tree, used as a moisturising and film-forming ingredient. In a sunscreen it acts mainly as a humectant, helping the formula hold water so skin feels hydrated, and it can also leave a smooth, even film that improves how the product spreads and dries. It is a supporting ingredient rather than a sun filter.

Is Galactoarabinan safe?

Yes. It is a plant-derived polysaccharide that works on the surface of the skin and is generally considered gentle and well tolerated, including on sensitive skin. There is no notable irritation or safety concern associated with it at cosmetic levels.

Does Galactoarabinan clog pores?

Generally no. It is a water-loving sugar polymer rather than a heavy oil or wax, so it is not regarded as a pore-clogging ingredient. It is used in small amounts as a humectant and film-former, which makes it an unlikely cause of breakouts.

Is Galactoarabinan natural?

Yes. Galactoarabinan is a polysaccharide extracted from plants, most commonly the larch tree, so it is a naturally sourced ingredient. It is purified for cosmetic use, but it is genuinely plant-derived rather than synthesised in a lab.

What is Galactoarabinan on an ingredient list (INCI)?

"Galactoarabinan" is the INCI name on the label, describing a sugar polymer built from galactose and arabinose units. It usually appears lower on the list, among the other humectants and skin-conditioning agents. You will often see it alongside glycerin or other moisturisers it works with.

Sunscreens with Galactoarabinan

We rate 100 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

← All ingredients